CNC Machining: A Pathway to Careers in Manufacturing and Engineering

Imagine crafting components that could one day launch into space, power high-performance vehicles, or revolutionize industries. With every tool you master and every project you complete, you’re not just learning skills. You’re building a legacy in innovation.

At Eastern Florida State College, the CNC Machinist Certificate Program is taught by an instructor with over three decades of industry experience and offers students hands-on training and the foundational knowledge essential for careers in industries from aerospace to automotive.

Ian Dedrick developed a love for cars while on active duty. Now, he wants to make custom, precise parts for race cars. For him, CNC machining offers a way to bring that passion to life. He hopes to eventually start a business building custom race cars.

One of his earliest projects, making a tape dispenser, taught him core skills on the lathe and drill press.

“It may sound simple, but it was a good foundation for more complex projects,” he explained, recognizing the program’s structured progression.

“The ever-increasing demand for skilled machinists on the Space Coast has created an exceptional opportunity for those seeking high-earning, fulfilling positions with a promising future,” said Eastern Florida State College President Dr. James Richey. “An EFSC certificate in CNC machining provides a pathway to pursue the EFSC Engineering Technology A.S. degree and transition into a variety of engineering roles, where professionals can continue to grow their skills and further increase their earning potential within the robust and growing manufacturing industry.”

Developing Skills for a High-Demand Profession

The CNC Machinist Certificate Program is designed to build critical skills in both traditional and computer-assisted machining.

Instructor Anthony DeTroia, who grew up in a machine shop, earned a degree in industrial engineering. He brings a lifetime of hands-on experience.

“Students learn how to use measuring tools, understand engineering drawings, operate manual equipment, and eventually use CNC machines and understand G-code,” said DeTroia.

The curriculum also covers CAD (computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software, such as Mastercam. This allows students to seamlessly move from design to finished product.

DeTroia says these skills can lead to positions that build components for rockets, aircraft, boats, and cars.

“It takes years to become proficient, just like any profession,” added DeTroia. “But students graduate with a robust skill set that primes them for careers in a high-demand job market.”

Learning by Doing: A Hands-on Program

An invaluable aspect of this program is the practical, hands-on learning experience it provides. In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in courses like Applied Manufacturing Mechanics, where they work directly with machinery, and Manufacturing Processes and Materials, which covers additional techniques such as welding.

The program even includes field trips to cutting-edge facilities, including NASA’s Prototype Development Lab.

“It’s important for students to see a wide range of manufacturing processes in action, providing a comprehensive look at industry standards and innovations,” DeTroia commented.

Students interested in design can also learn valuable skills within this program. “If a student wants to become an engineer that designs products, the best design engineers know manufacturing processes,” according to DeTroia. “The best way to learn that is by doing it with your own hands.”

Igniting Career Dreams

Each student brings a unique perspective and motivation to the CNC program. Will Stark, who transitioned from a 16-year career as a chef, values the program’s focus on “permanence and longevity” through skills like metalworking and carpentry.

For him, these skills fulfill a desire to create and maintain what he makes.

“What might seem like a failure is actually an opportunity for all of us to learn,” he shared, appreciating the program’s supportive environment.

Gabriella Fuse, a former intern at NASA’s Prototype Development Lab and a FIRST Robotics participant, sees the CNC program as a critical step toward her dream of becoming a machinist.

“I’d love to work at NASA’s Prototype Development Lab one day,” she said.

Her favorite project involved creating aluminum rings, a task that required precision and taught her essential lathe techniques.

“Everything I’ve learned has strengthened my understanding of machinery and engineering,” she added, echoing the program’s commitment to comprehensive learning.

Bridging the College-to-Career Gap

The program aims to align its training with industry needs.

“We meet with industry partners three or four times a year to ensure we’re teaching the skills they need,” instructor DeTroia said.

With the thriving aerospace industry, companies such as Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and SpaceX seek talent with skills the program offers. Graduates typically enter the workforce in machine shops or metal manufacturing companies. Those who demonstrate initiative and curiosity have ample opportunity for advancement.

In terms of what qualities make for a successful student, the instructor highlighted the importance of enjoying hands-on work and having a comfort level with math.

“Like anything, you get out what you put in. You have to be all in,” DeTroia advised. Patience is crucial as concepts may take time to click, but for students who persevere, the “click” will eventually happen, paving the way for a rewarding career.

Partnering With Local Businesses & Industries

The partnership between EFSC and Knights Armament exemplifies a collaborative effort to create a highly skilled workforce essential for supporting the growing demands of Brevard County’s manufacturing and engineering industries.

“We here at Knights have always appreciated the team attitude as it comes to a collaborative effort with EFSC, helping us in creating a qualified workforce,” said Art Hoelke, Vice President and General Manager for Knights Armament.

“I have worked for many years with the leadership of Eastern Florida and have seen many programs added to help facilitate the growth in our CTE-style programs and apprenticeship models.”

These programs provide students with the technical skills and hands-on experience necessary to excel in the manufacturing sector.

“Our apprentices have used the facility at Eastern Florida’s Cocoa Campus, and we have, through the years, benefited from the instructors and education offered in these classes,” Hoelke said.

“Some of my graduates have grown with our company after successfully completing their apprentice program and are now managers and leaders within Knights.”

This collaboration underscores the shared vision of EFSC and Knights Armament to foster innovation, provide quality education, and cultivate a pipeline of talent capable of meeting the challenges of modern manufacturing.

Shaping the Future

For prospective students, current students offer some words of wisdom.

“By the end of the first class, you’ll know if this is for you,” Will Stark advised, adding that it’s about the desire to work with both hands and mind.

Gabriella Fuse encouraged newcomers to “definitely do it,” noting that a willingness to learn is key to enjoying the program. Ian Dedrick emphasized the importance of having a clear goal. “Know why you want to be here” to make the most of the experience.

The CNC Machinist Certificate Program is more than a training course. It’s a launchpad for building, innovating, and mastering a craft.

DeTroia summed it up by saying, “If you can think and your hands are good and you have some basic knowledge, you should be golden.”

For students who dream of building parts for rockets, cars, or custom projects, this program offers a pathway to making those dreams a reality.

What sets this program apart is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while collaborating with passionate peers and seasoned professionals.

“Each moment here is designed to ignite your curiosity and fuel your ambition,” said DeTroia. “This isn’t just a career path — it’s your chance to shape the future of engineering and manufacturing. Are you ready to make your mark? Join us, and let’s start building your dream together.”

EFSC’s CNC Machinist Certificate Program

Ready to turn your passion into a career? The CNC Machinist Certificate Program at EFSC is your first step. 

The CNC Machinist College Credit Certificate consists of four courses, which also count as technical electives for Eastern Florida’s Engineering Technology A.S. degree. The 12-credit hour program takes multiple semesters to complete because the skills taught in the three hands-on machining courses build on each other. Successful completion of the pre-requisite course is required before moving on in the sequence.

Join a growing field, gain hands-on experience, and learn from experts as dedicated to your success as you are. Begin your journey toward a fulfilling and impactful career in machining and manufacturing!