As discussed in our previous blog post, Cleveland has become a hub for high-tech innovation and manufacturing. A thriving manufacturing economy means more jobs are being created, and according to recent surveys of the Cleveland job market, the openings can’t be filled quickly enough. This is largely in part that many manufacturing jobs require special certifications, and require candidates with appropriate qualifications in order to be filled. Today we’ll discuss the top three job openings, the education and certifications needed for those jobs, and area schools that provide necessary training.
CNC Machinists
- Job Description
Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machinists work with heavy machinery from setup to operation to produce parts and rolls from metal, plastic, and other materials. CNC equipment is precision machinery that cuts, grinds, and drills into materials. A CNC machinist is responsible for making adjustments to the machine’s speed, feeding the material, and directing the path of the cut. They’re also in charge of making sure the machines are working to their full capacity and that regular maintenance checks are performed.
- Education Requirements
While many employers offer on the job training for an entry level CNC machinist, to become an advanced or skilled machine operator you must undergo post-secondary education and training. Most jobs will also require continuing education because the technology for CNCs is frequently changing.
Area Schools:
- Cleveland Industrial Training Center
CITC offers a 272 hour, 17 week program that will enable students to program (using CAD/CAM), setup, and operate computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools combined with using quality control instruments, shop mathematics, and blueprint reading. Graduates will qualify for a number of positions including, but not limited to: machine traineemachinist apprentice, CNC operator, CNC programmer.
HVAC and Maintenance Technicians
- Job Description
HVAC Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. They’re also responsible for complying with applicable policies and procedures such as safety and health guidelines. Many HVAC technicians specialize in either installation or maintenance and repair. This occupation is projected to grow faster through 2018, than any other occupations that require post-secondary training or an associate degree, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Education Requirements
Most employers prefer to hire HVAC technicians who have completed formal training. This may include an apprenticeship or classroom instruction. Classroom instruction can take place at a trade school or community college. Apprenticeships usually last three to five years and are sponsored by unions such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America or Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association.
Area Schools:
- Polaris Career Center
Polaris Career Center in Cleveland offers a 600 Hour HVAC training course that takes place in a comprehensive classroom and practical learning environment. It prepares students for the CFC Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Certification and ICE tests and an opportunity to earn National Center for Construction Education and Research Certification in HVAC.
- Vatterott Education Center
Offers a 60 week, 72 hour HVAC training program. In the HVAC Diploma program, students learn how to calculate heating and cooling loads, study techniques for reading and using blueprints, specifications and shop drawings, and receive hands on training for soldering, brazing, wiring, creating duct work and cutting, threading, and joining ferrous piping. Graduates of this program possess the skills for residential and commercial employment.
Welders
- Job Description
A welder is a tradesman that specializes in welding pieces of material together. These materials can be metals or varieties of plastic or polymer. Because welding procedures involve an open electric arc or flame, it’s a high risk job that requires good dexterity and attention to detail. Many welders work in heavy industry, since welding is a crucial stage in the construction of cars, trains, ships, and buildings.
- Education Requirements
As in most fields, welding education requirements vary by employer and level of the job. However, most companies require that applicants have some formal training. Welding skills are taught in high schools, vocational and community colleges, private schools, and the United States military. Certifications in specific skills through the American Welding Society are also sometimes required. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that most companies that hire welders require them to have a certificate from a vocational school or an Associate Degree in welding. Most formal programs take one to two years to complete.
Area Schools:
- The Lincoln Electric Welding School: Since 1917, the Lincoln Electric Welding School has instructed over 100,000 students in the various methods and techniques of safety and arc welding processes. Located in Cleveland, Lincoln Electric provides 6 week to 15 week courses on welding.
- Ohio Technical College: A more traditional vocational school, Ohio Tech offers a 12 month comprehensive welding program. The Master Welding Technology program features extensive hands-on training in all types of welding, study of practical mathematics for welders, and the ability to become a certified welder.
Once you’ve completed training, you’ll be ready to start an exciting new career in the manufacturing industry. Let Area Temps connect your with the best firms in the Greater Cleveland Area. Don’t wait any longer to start your next job in technology and manufacturing. Contact our recruiting staff today and, we’ll help land your next job.
