Empower Through Education

Our Programs

Paid, hands-on training that prepares you for a skilled career in CNC manufacturing.

Paid While You Train

40-hour paid work weeks with on-the-job training

2,000 Hours

One year of hands-on training

Journeyworker Certification

Earned from the State of Minnesota

The Apprenticeship

CNC Lathe Operator

A CNC Lathe Operator is a skilled technician who sets up, operates, and monitors CNC lathe machines to produce precision cylindrical parts from metal, plastic, or other materials.

On the job, operators load programs, install tools and raw material, make adjustments, inspect finished parts, and keep the machine running efficiently, all while following safety and quality standards.

Where It Can Lead

Graduates often move into roles with more responsibility, higher pay, and long-term growth.

  • Advanced Machining Operations

  • Machine Setup & Troubleshooting

  • Quality Assurance Technician

Training Curriculum

What You'll Learn

Individualized on-the-job training that builds real skills on real equipment.

  • Manufacturing facility with multiple CNC machines and workers operating equipment.

    Paid Education & OJT

    Earn while you learn with 40-hour paid work weeks that combine education and on-the-job training.

  • Two men working in a laboratory, wearing black hats and black shirts with 'WELLS TECHNOLOGY' logos, one wearing glasses and the other with tattoos, operating scientific equipment and tools.

    Mentorship & Progress Incentives

    Work alongside experienced mentors and be rewarded as you reach new milestones in your training.

  • A woman wearing safety goggles and purple gloves operating a large industrial machine in a factory setting.

    Interactive & Real-World Learning

    Hands-on lessons via PC/DVD, state-of-the-art equipment, real-world projects, and customer interaction.

  • Close-up of precision machining process with a rotating metal shaft secured in a lathe with a cutting tool shaping the metal.

    Lean Training for Efficiency

    Learn lean manufacturing principles that reduce waste and keep production running efficiently.

  • Man wearing black beanie, glasses, and a beige work shirt operating a CNC machine in a workshop.

    Foundational Maintenance & Operations

    Housekeeping, preventive and tooling maintenance, benchwork de-burring, hand tools, and CNC lathe operation and machine controls.

  • Two men standing in a manufacturing or machine shop, surrounded by industrial equipment and machinery.

    Production, Quality & Logistics

    Blueprint reading, inspection techniques, material handling, inventory control, quality control, and shipping.

Whole-Person Development

Beyond the Machine

Strong careers are built on more than technical skill. These programs support students at work and at home.

  • Cultural Training

    Programming that honors and strengthens cultural identity, helping students bring who they are into the workplace with pride.

  • Personal Finance Training

    Practical lessons in budgeting, saving, and managing a paycheck so students can build long-term financial stability.

  • Manufacturing Awareness Trip

    Visits to other manufacturers outside of Wells give students a broader view of the industry and the careers it offers.

Your Path

  • 1. Apply

    Complete the application on our Apply page. Applications are open through December 31, 2026.

  • 2. Train & Earn

    Work 40-hour paid weeks with on-the-job training and mentoring for one year.

  • 3. Get Certified

    Complete 2,000 hours and earn your Journeyworker certification from the State of Minnesota.

Now Accepting Applications Through December 31, 2026