New Curriculum:

The Machine Technology department is nearing completion of a years-long modernization project. Since March of 2022, over $1 million in CNC machines and other related equipment has come into the machine shop. To go along with these acquisitions, we are offering new certificates and courses, and revamping existing courses. Our new certificate structure includes multiple stackable certificates to get students trained up and into the industry faster while also providing for continuing education. Our new courses cover advanced topics like geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), 5-axis CNC machining, diamond turning and micromachining. And we are revisiting our introductory courses with exciting new projects and a new suite of instructional videos. One example of a new project is a telescope which students will manufacture during various courses and which will culminate in MACH 214 – Ultraprecision and Micromachining when they will diamond turn the mirrors! Another example is a part for a satellite deployer which students will machine in MACH 32 – Multi-Axis CNC Machining and which will fly to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s HUNCH program!

Mode Of Instruction:

Most courses will be offered face-to-face (“in-person”) only. For these courses, lectures and labs will take place on campus. Some other courses will be offered as “hybrid” courses with online lectures and face-to-face labs in the machine shop. Check the class schedule for details on which courses will be offered in which modality.

We began offering hybrid courses during the COVID-19 pandemic for health and safety reasons. But we have since found that some courses benefit from the hybrid format and it allows students to achieve greater success. In these courses, the online lectures and demonstrations are pre-recorded, so students can review them whenever their schedules permit. By the time they come in to the machine shop, they are well-prepared to start working on their projects and make the most of lab time. And they can even use the lecture and demonstration videos in the shop to help them with their projects. There are also many opportunities for one-on-one assistance during labs or during office hours held multiple times per week. And we have open hours in the computer lab and Chromebooks for lending to help students succeed in the online part of the course.

With an experienced and dedicated faculty and a large shop filled with state-of-the-art equipment, the Machine Technology Program at Laney College is one of the best in the Bay Area — in fact, it’s one of the best in California!

We have a 100% job placement rate for graduates and starting annual income in the Bay Area ranges from $55k – $87K plus benefits. Right now, we’re unable to meet employer demand for graduates – we need more students!

Fees and costs should not be a barrier to enrollment — the department awards between $20,000 and $50,000 in industry scholarships each year. And you don’t need any prior experience to enroll in the program!

A degree in Machine Technology opens the door to a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. As a skilled machinist or technician, you’ll be at the forefront of manufacturing, working with advanced machinery to create precision parts and tools that are essential in industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and electronics.

Here are some of the career paths you can pursue with a Machine Technology degree:

• CNC Machinist: Operate and program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to produce high-precision components used in various industries.

• Tool and Die Maker: Design and build specialized tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing processes, ensuring that parts are produced with exact specifications.

• Manufacturing Technician: Work in production settings, maintaining and troubleshooting machinery, and ensuring that manufacturing processes run smoothly and efficiently.

• Quality Control Inspector: Ensure that products meet industry standards and specifications by conducting detailed inspections and tests on finished parts and tools.

• Maintenance Machinist: Specialize in repairing and maintaining industrial machinery, ensuring that equipment operates at peak performance.

• Production Supervisor: Oversee manufacturing teams, manage workflows, and ensure that production goals are met while maintaining high-quality standards.

Why Choose a Career in Machine Technology?

• High Demand: Skilled machinists and technicians are in high demand across various industries, making it easier to secure employment after graduation.

• Competitive Salaries: Starting salaries in the Bay Area range from $55K to $87K annually, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

• Advancement Opportunities: With experience and additional training, you can advance into higher-paying roles such as production management, engineering, or specialized machining.

• Job Security: Manufacturing is a backbone of the economy, and machinists play a critical role in keeping industries running. This ensures long-term job security and stability.

Whether you're looking to start a new career or enhance your skills, a Machine Technology degree from Laney College provides the training and credentials you need to succeed in this dynamic field.