Machining Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those in machining tend to be objective, innovative and methodical. 

You need:  

• mechanical aptitude 
• critical thinking and problem-solving skills 
• the ability to use your hands skillfully and quickly 
• the ability to estimate and measure sizes and distances accurately 
• the ability to work alone on tasks that require concentration and physical effort.

You should enjoy doing creative work with machinery that requires a high degree of skill and precision. 

Academic path

This program aligns with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) curriculum for all four technical training periods for Machinists.

After successfully completing each of the first three semesters, you’ll be eligible to challenge the exams for periods one through three. At the end of 60 weeks, you’ll be eligible to challenge the period four exam. 

Upon passing the exams, you can register as an apprentice and complete the on-the-job training hours to earn your journeyperson designation. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

You can complete an optional cooperative work term between your first and second year.

This opportunity allows you to apply your classroom learning in the workplace and gain valuable industry experience while networking with a potential employer.

Credential

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Machining Technology diploma.

Program length

2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible

This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Potential careers (NOC):

• Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians (22302)
• Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations (72010)
• Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors (72100)
• Machine fitters (72405)
• Supervisors, other mechanical and metal products manufacturing (92023)
• Metalworking and forging machine operators (24105)
• Machining tool operators (94106)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

• at least 50% in Math 20-1, Math 20-2 or Math 20-3, and 
• at least 50% in English Language Arts 20-1 or English Language Arts 20-2, and 
• at least 50% in Science 10.

Applicants who have previously completed the SAIT Machinist Technician certificate program or equivalent may also be accepted in place of the above requirements.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Machining Technology diploma requires 60 credits (26 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

Required courses

• BLPR 229 - Blueprint Reading 1 1.5 Credits
• BLPR 235 - Blueprint Reading (CAD) 2 1.5 Credits
• BLPR 301 - Blueprint Reading (CAD/CAM) 3 1.5 Credits
• BLPR 350 - Blueprint Reading (CAD/CAM) 4 1.5 Credits
• COMM 267 - Professional Communication Skills 1.5 Credits
• EMTL 204 - Metallurgy 1.5 Credits
• EMTL 307 - Metrology (CMM) 1.5 Credits
• MACH 201 - Machine Shop 1 3 Credits
• MACH 203 - Machinist Theory 1 3 Credits
• MACH 211 - Machine Shop 2 3 Credits
• MACH 252 - Machinist Theory 2 3 Credits
• MACH 301 - Machine Shop 3 3 Credits
• MACH 305 - Machinist Theory 3 3 Credits
• MACH 352 - Machine Shop 4 3 Credits
• MACH 354 - Machinist Theory 4 3 Credits
• MATH 266 - Applied Mathematics for Technicians 1.5 Credits
• MATH 267 - Applied Mathematics for Machinists - 2 1.5 Credits
• MATH 302 - Applied Mathematics for Machinists - 3 1.5 Credits
• MNFG 201 - CNC Shop 1 3 Credits
• MNFG 202 - CNC Theory 1 1.5 Credits
• MNFG 212 - CNC Shop 2 1.5 Credits
• MNFG 256 - CNC Theory 2 3 Credits
• MNFG 301 - CNC Theory 3 3 Credits
• MNFG 303 - CNC Shop 3 3 Credits
• MNFG 351 - CNC Theory 4 3 Credits
• MNFG 352 - CNC Shop 4 3 Credits

Optional courses

• CPWK 252 - Cooperative Work Term 0 Credits

Suggested schedule of study

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies

Books and supplies are approximately $2,000 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

Manufacturing and Automation program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Manufacturing and Automation.

Phone: 403.284.8641
Email: ma.info@sait.ca

Program outcomes

1. Demonstrate leadership in workplace safety.
2. Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills and familiarity with trade terminology when interacting with internal and external stakeholders. 
3. Apply mathematical principles to solve mechanical and manufacturing problems.
4. Exercise professional judgment when planning jobs, selecting tools and sequencing operations for a project.
5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of CNC programming codes.
6. Operate and troubleshoot machining operations and maintain precision and CNC machines.
7. Use CAD/CAM technologies to read and interpret mechanical drawings and develop projects according to specifications.
8. Operate different models of machines and cutting tools to safely manufacture, assemble and repair mechanical and manufacturing components according to specifications.
9. Use current and emerging technologies, computer hardware and software, techniques, and materials to support mechanical and manufacturing projects.