Manufacturing & fabrication
Machinist
Set up and operate machine tools to make accurately measured parts.
BLS · May 2025
EDUCATION & ENTRY
Technical study or apprenticeship
Machine manufacturing study can include measurement, manual machining and CNC work. Compare shorter certificates, associate study and employer training. Ask about current equipment and practice time.
The state’s typical entry education classification is “High school diploma or equivalent.” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.
CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN
Oregon training options
These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.
Portland Community College
Machine Manufacturing Technology
Develop precision machining skills for manufacturing.
Ask: Which award is offered at my preferred site, and how much CNC practice does it include?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Klamath Community College
Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Focuses on automated manufacturing and the design of parts. Compare the degree map with your interest in machining, production systems and troubleshooting.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Manufacturing Engineering Technology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Tillamook Bay Community College
Manufacturing and Industrial Technology
Combines machining, welding, fluid power and process control. The published total is longer than a basic 90-credit associate; use the actual program map when estimating time and tuition.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Manufacturing and Industrial Technology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Mt. Hood Community College
Mechatronics
Combines robotics, programmable controllers, electro-mechanical systems and industrial troubleshooting. Hands-on technical work supports roles in automation and maintenance.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Mechatronics plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Rogue Community College
Manufacturing Technology
At Table Rock Campus, study CAD/CAM, CNC operation, manual machining and blueprint interpretation. The degree combines practical manufacturing skills with mathematics and workplace communication.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Manufacturing Technology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Columbia Gorge Community College
Advanced Manufacturing and Fabrication
Builds from the 39-credit Advanced Manufacturing Technology certificate into a broader applied degree. Training includes welding, fabrication and computer-controlled production.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Advanced Manufacturing and Fabrication plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Columbia Gorge Community College
CNC and Additive Manufacturing
Combines CNC manufacturing/quality-control and additive-manufacturing certificates with general education. The two certificate blocks can be taken in either order.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my CNC and Additive Manufacturing plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Take this question to a counselor.
Do I enjoy precise measurements, mechanical drawings and careful adjustment?
Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.
Build a working cost estimate →Understand the numbers.
The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $30.68. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.
Oregon projects employment moving from 3,268 jobs in 2024 to 3,528 in 2034. The projected 3,601 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.
How to read wage information →