Oakton College’s CNC/CAM Programming Certificate is designed for aspiring and current professionals ready to upskill in this field.
Whether stepping into college for the first time or returning to expand your expertise, this program offers a pathway to elevate your career opportunities and income potential.
In 21 credits, this certificate delivers hands-on, industry-relevant training to prepare you for roles such as CNC machinist, CNC operator, or programmer. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge of advanced CNC programming and cutting-edge Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) techniques. You’ll master skills like macro programming and troubleshooting CNC machines, and Mastercam (CAM), which teaches you to create precise 2D and 3D toolpaths using professional-grade software.
Chicago is known as “the city that works” because it is a manufacturing hub. This program is part of Oakton’s commitment to providing an accessible and career-focused education. We understand the importance of balancing work, family, and education, so we offer support and flexibility to help you succeed on your terms.
Set your career in motion with Oakton’s CNC/CAM Programming Certificate.
Enrolling at Oakton College can save you thousands of dollars and help you earn more over the course of your career. Our tuition is among the lowest in the region, and we offer many ways to bring your costs down even more.
99 percent of Oakton students graduate without debt.
To help you get there, you can apply for a scholarship, which you don’t have to pay back. We award $12 million in scholarships annually. Financial Aid includes grants, loans, and other forms of financial assistance that can reduce your costs of attending college.
We offer payment options that give you control over how you pay. Pay all at once or spread your payments over the course of the semester.
Learn more about your options for paying for your education
Oakton's Manufacturing Technology faculty is experienced in the classroom and in the manufacturing field. The Manufacturing Technology program curriculum is overseen by an expert advisory committee composed of industry veterans, innovators and educators.
Boguslaw Zapal
Professor and Chair
CAD/Mechanical Design and Manufacturing
A.A.S. Oakton College
B.S. University of Rzeszow, Poland
M.S. University of Rzeszow, Poland
bzapal@oakton.edu
847.376.7707
Office: P135, Skokie
Pawel Baran
Professor and Coordinator
Mechanical Design and Manufacturing/Mechatronics
B.S. University of Chicago, IL
pbaran@oakton.edu
847.376.7612
Office: P131, Skokie
Ken Albert
Teacher – Industrial Arts
Niles North High School
Josh Altergot
Adjunct; College of Lake County
Technical Support
Computer Aided Tech Inc. - SolidWorks
Denny Bahl
Engineering Manager
SolidWorks Users Group – Des Plaines
President
Innovative Plastech, Inc.
Keith Cahill
Director of Operations
ITW Signode Service Business
Michael Cotton
Marketing Manager
Keiko Mimuro
Marketing Specialist
OSG Tap & Die Inc.
Jackson Harlan
Architect
Steven J. Huy, President
Ultra-Metric Tool Co.
Greg Korack
Unit Leader
Avon Products, Inc.
Olya Koteva
Manufacturing Engineer
John Crane Inc.
Jacques Krikorian
Associate Professor-MFG
Harper College
Richard Leopold
RIGHTech Fabrications
John Manfredy
Interior Design Faculty
Illinois Institute of Art
Animated Division
Hank Ofenlock
Anthony Stulpinas
Ken Johnson
Tempel Steel
Chris Sikora
Associate Professor – Computer Aided Design
Cody Starr
Advanced Process Engineer
Richard Stein
GIS Project Management
Gregory Turnowski
Engineer - Woodward
Erik Voight, PMP
MGP, Inc.
Ron Worth
Principle Flashcut CNC
Kristen Hanes Zelazo
Director of Human Resources
Oakton Alum
