Would taking a Machining/CNC technical class in high school help for a mechanical engineering degree?

Question

I'm a sophomore in high school and I want to become possibly a mechanical engineer. I am unsure whether or not to take this technical class or not. I'm not sure if it would help out a lot or not.

Answer 1

take it! You cannot go wrong. One of the biggest things I hear machinists complain about is that the MEs they work with have absolutely no clue how the parts they design are actually machined.



Some hands-on machine tool experience is useful no matter how you slice it.

Answer 2

YES! Learning about CNC machining will be excellent for your carrier. I'm excited you asked this question. I have been operating and programming 3 and 5 axis CNC routing/milling machine centers made in Italy for 15 years now, and I love it. If you’re learning CAD, go for CAM too. Pretty much the same thing, except with CAM, what ever you draw, the CNC will cut. CNC technology has an excellent future and isn’t going anywhere. Understanding it will be a big plus for you over other engineers. Drawing up the invention is one thing, but making its something else. Can It be made like drawn? Taking CNC classes, I can't vouch for. Training is usually special, by the company selling the machinery. The training is usually meant for that particular machine. School may give you a better overall knowledge of Computer Numeric Control, but simply just getting a job in the local factory (who has some cool machines), will get you some realistic, hands on training. Good Luck!

Answer 3

As long as you don't give up a science or math class to take.