Overview of the General Machinist Certification

Overview of the General Machinist Certification

For those in the field of CNC machining, the General Machinist Certification is a sought-after distinction. This certification not only validates your skills as a machinist, but also demonstrates your commitment to safety and quality in your work. In this overview, we'll take a look at what the General Machinist Certification entails, and how you can go about getting certified. With this knowledge in hand, you can decide if pursuing this certification is right for you.

What is the General Machinist Certification?

The General Machinist Certification is a professional qualification recognized in Canada and the United States. Completion of an extensive industry-recognized training program is required to obtain the certification. For those seeking a career in machining, the General Machinist Certification provides an effective mechanism to develop strategies based on best practice principles and validate their mastery of core industry skills. With a General Machinist Certification, employers can rely on having personnel who possess the knowledge and training to deliver quality results effectively and efficiently on even the most complex projects.

Which institution supports the General Machinist Certification in the USA?

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) is the leading institution offering a General Machinist Certification in the USA.

Which institution supports the General Machinist Certification in Canada?

In Canada, the Red Seal Program is the leading institution offering a General Machinist Certification.

What topics are covered on the General Machinist Certification exam and how is it structured?

The General Machinist Certification exam is designed to test an individual's knowledge and skills in machining operations as it applies to safe work practice, tool selection and operation of machine tools. With more than 100 questions taken from a vast pool of topics, this comprehensive certifying exam tests a person's understanding in layout and setup processes, cutting tools and machines, measuring instruments and gauges, shop mathematics, heat treating processes, manufacturing prints and assembly methods. Exam takers are given two hours to answer questions related to these topics in multiple-choice format. The certification credential will be awarded upon successful completion of the exam with a score no less than 70%.

What is a typical educational path to take to properly prepare for the General Machinist Certification?

Working to obtain a General Machinist Certification is a wise decision for those looking to pursue a long-term career in the machining industry. To achieve this certification, prospective machinists should begin with foundational technical college coursework, such as industrial mechanics or CNC programming. Once these initial courses are taken, more advanced topics like tertiary machining and precision tooling should be studied if not having been completed during high school. Many employers prefer that their employees hold an Associate Degree or a Bachelor Degree in Mechanical Engineering plus apprenticeship experience. It is also important for aspiring Machinists to take part in an apprenticeship program so as to gain hands-on practice and make valuable connections in the field. Overall, obtaining the Machinist Certification will open up many doors of opportunity and will give one the necessary skillset along with educational credentials needed to gain employment as a professional Machinist.

Why should you get certified as a general machinist, and what are some of the benefits associated with this credential?

Earning your general machinist certification is an excellent way to demonstrate to potential employers, clients and peers your knowledge and proficiency in the field. Not only that, but having a specialized certification shows you are willing to go above and beyond what's expected, and as such could mean more career opportunities and higher wages than if you were uncertified.