Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer

Due to system maintenance, the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal and the Public Register may experience possible service interruptions from midnight on September 21 to September 22 at 2 a.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Trade Information

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer

A CNC Programmer develops programming for Computerized Numerical and Direct Numerical controlled machines by:

Demonstrating safe work practices and techniques
Defining areas of workpiece to be machined
Determining CNC programming operations
Planning the metal removal process
Developing tool paths
Post-processing tool path information
Generating CNC job documentation
Implementing CNC machining processes
Optimizing programs
Archiving/maintaining files

Apprenticeship Resources

Schedule of Training (PDF)

Curriculum Training Standard (PDF)

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer is a trade named under the Building Opportunities in the Skilled Trades Act, 2021. This trade has an apprenticeship program that is administered by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. Upon completion of an apprenticeship program, the Ministry issues a Certificate of Apprenticeship. This is the highest level of certification available for the trade.

As there is no certifying exam in this trade, Skilled Trades Ontario does not issue a Certificate of Qualification and therefore cannot accept Trade Equivalency Assessment applications for this trade.

As this trade is non-compulsory, the information of individuals practicing this trade will not appear on the Skilled Trades Ontario Public Register.