SOWELA Machine Tool Technology
Machine Tool Technology leads to an in-demand career path locally and across the country. That’s why SOWELA offers an associate degree program designed to prepare students for that workforce. SOWELA Machine Tool Technology. We spoke with Randall Kimbro this morning to get the details.
In the machinist program, students will learn to set up and operate equipment to create metal parts, instruments, and tools. For the millwright portion of the curriculum, students learn to install, maintain, and repair industrial machinery and equipment in various settings like factories, power plants, and construction sites. Students also learn key aspects of manufacturing. The curriculum includes computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines and NCCER certification, which help increase students’ employability.
If you are someone who likes to solve problems and has a technical mind, SOWELA says this may be a great career fit.
Machinists and Millwrights are considered four-star jobs according to the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Star jobs are considered top-rated occupations based on occupational outlook, educational requirements, and salary. Millwrights can anticipate a starting pay of $30/hour and earn upwards of $50 or more with experience.
Local industries also offer apprenticeship opportunities for graduates of SOWELA’s Machine Tool Technology program. Citgo’s four-year apprenticeship program even applies the two years of Machine Tool classes to its apprenticeship, enabling SOWELA grads to move through the program faster with raises given to graduates as they show mastery in specific skills.
Scholarships and financial aid are available for those who qualify and SOWELA is currently registering for the Fall 2025 semester.
Program Description
The Associate of Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology is designed to prepare students with a practical approach to machining and millwright. The program prepares students to install conveyor systems, connect machinery to power supplies and piping, direct hoisting and setting of machines, and adjust the moving and stationary parts of machines to certain specifications. Students learn to shape metal parts on lathes, grinders, drill presses, milling machines and computer numerical controlled machines.
The program incorporates troubleshooting techniques and strategies, as well as making computations for dimensions and cutting feeds and speeds using precision measuring instruments, laying out of parts, and heat treatment of metals. Students receive hands-on experience with pumps, gearboxes and compressors.
Students who successfully complete the Associate of Applied Science or the Technical Diploma in Machine Tool Technology will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills required for an entry-level machinist/millwright position.
- Demonstrate ability to install conveyor systems. Connect machinery to power supplies and piping. Direct hoisting and setting of machines. Adjust the moving and stationary parts of machines to certain specifications.
- Demonstrate ability to shape metal parts on lathes, grinders, drill presses, milling machines and computer numerical controlled machines.
- Demonstrate ability to troubleshoot and repair pumps, gearboxes, and compressors.
Source:
To learn more about the Machine Tool Technology program, visit www.sowela.edu/machine-tool or call (337) 421-6550 or email onestop@sowela.edu.