Leading the Way to Precision Manufacturing
The tool and die maker/precision machinist apprentice makes the devices used by machinists for mass-produced parts. Tool and die makers are among the most skilled of all machinery workers. Apprentices learn to make the gauges and measuring devices in manufacturing precision metal parts. They are also taught to construct metal forms used to shape metal stamping and forging operations.
Course Information
Year One
| Number | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| APT-190 | Mathematics for Machine Technology I | |
| APT-194 | Blueprint Interpretation |
Year Two
| Number | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| APT-289 | Metal Cutting Applications | |
| MET-106 | Metrology | |
| MET-105 | Materials and Processes |
Year Three
| Number | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| MET-111 | CNC Machine Setup/Operations/Programmin | |
| MET-226 | CNC/CAM Operations I |
Year Four
| Number | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| MET-108 | Computer Drafting Using AutoCAD | |
| WLD-100 | Introduction to Welding | |
| MET-133 | Graphics/SolidWorks CAD I |
Admission Requirements
How to Apply
If you are working for a company that currently participates in the apprenticeship program, talk to your supervisor or an HR staff person. They will be able to outline the process used by your company in selecting individuals for their program.
If working for a company that does not have an apprenticeship program, express your interest in pursuing an apprenticeship to your supervisor. The company has to agree to sponsor you in the four-year program. For more information, you and/or your supervisor can contact the Apprentice Administrator.
If you are looking to pursue a career in manufacturing through the apprenticeship program, there are a couple ways to get started.
- One is to contact any of our member and sponsoring companies to see if they are currently hiring apprentices. The member companies are listed at the membership tab on the RRVTMA website and a list of sponsoring companies can be obtained from the Apprentice Administrator.
- A second possibility is to take the NTMA Aptitude Test that the RRVTMA offers a couple times each year. With permission, your test scores and contact information will be provided to our member and sponsoring companies.
Apprenticeship Organizations
Tool and Die/Precision Machinist
Rock River Valley Tooling and Machining Association
P.O. Box 5029
Rockford, IL 61125
(815) 985-8582
Fax: (815) 425-6821
Attn: Dutch Hinck
For further information contact:
Nakeya Womack, Apprenticeship & Training Representative
U.S. Department of Labor
Office of Apprenticeship
230 South Dearborn Street, Room 656
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 375-8145
Womack.nakeya@dol.gov
Rock Valley College
Dean of Career Technical Education
Attn: Vicki Brust
3301 N. Mulford Road
Rockford, IL 61109
(815) 921-3174
What can I do with this degree?
Potential Careers & Wages
Program Pathways
Students should meet with a Career Advisor to develop a clear academic pathway leading to a seamless transfer experience. For additional possibilities that may require an advanced degree or certification, make an appointment with a Career Advisor.
Additional Information
Gainful Employment Program Requirements
Choose the year to view Gainful Employment information for this program/certificate. Gainful Employment information includes program costs, length of time to complete the program, potential occupations tied to this program, as well as success rates and job placement rates where applicable.