AUBURN – Two new Campro CSP-550 CNC machines were delivered recently to the machine tool technology lab at Central Maine Community College. One of the machines has a four-axis machining capability, opposed to the older three-axis machines in the lab. It brings the total of CNC machines in the lab from four to six, allowing for greater instructional time for more students.

The abbreviation CNC stands for computer numerical control, and refers specifically to a computer “controller” that reads coded instructions and drives the machine tool, a powered mechanical device that fabricates components such as machine parts. It is essentially robotic equipment that is desired in the industry.

The new machines were purchased with federal grant funds.

The machine tool technology program at CMCC offers a broad training experience in the metal products industry. Students may complete the associate degree or a one-year certificate program.

Graduates are often employed as machine operators, machinists, CNC machinists, tool and die makers, quality control inspectors, machine assemblers, machine tool designers or field service representatives.

Anyone interested in more information should visit www.cmcc.edu or call the admissions office at 755-5273.