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Mechanical Technician – CNC Programming (MTCP)

Work Term Option (MTCPW)

Starts in January, September

PGWP-eligible Program

Campus
Delivery
Hybrid
Duration
4 Semesters (2 Years)
Study Option
Full-time
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
School
School of Environmental & Civil Engineering Technology

About the Program

This two-year diploma program introduces you to the state-of-the-art mechanical design and advanced manufacturing technologies used in today’s fast-paced manufacturing industry. Using the latest machining and design software applications, you will develop foundational skills in mechanical design to progress from designing simple components to more complex assemblies.

Throughout the program, you will gain hands-on experience with computer numerical control (CNC) machinery, including milling machines, lathes and electrical discharge machining (EDM), while applying industry-standard software applications. This program also offers an optional work term, providing valuable real-world experience.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be well positioned to pursue careers in industries such as aerospace, automotive and other manufacturing sectors. The program also provides a strong foundation for entrepreneurial pathways, including starting or managing advanced manufacturing businesses.

Computer Requirements

  • operating system: Windows 11, 64 bit
  • processor: 3.3 GHz (or faster)
  • memory: 16 GB (or larger)
  • solid-state drive: 128 GB (or larger)
  • second display screen (recommended)

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

  • Computer-aided design (CAD) for mechanical components and assemblies
  • Computer-aided machining (CAM) and CNC programming
  • Mould and die design, including injection moulds and progressive dies
  • Programming robots and programmable logical controllers (PLC) for modern manufacturing
  • Reverse-engineering using 3D scanning technologies
  • Prototyping using 3D printing technologies
  • Production of mechanical components
  • Working with internationally accepted manufacturing standards
  • Understanding machining and cutting parameters to program CNC machines to run efficiently and effectively
  • Setting up and operating CNC machines for production, including 3- and 4-axis milling machines, lathes with live tooling and wire EDM

Work Experience

Optional Work Term

This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. Students interested in completing a work term should apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.​

Students who select the work term stream will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. Students will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-work term stream at any time. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and is typically a full-time position that may be paid or unpaid. The work term job search is student-driven and participation in the work term stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, students will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.

Work-Integrated Learning Model Starting January
Year Winter Summer Fall
Year 1 Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year 2 Semester 4 Work Term  
Work-Integrated Learning Model Starting September
Year Fall Winter Summer
Year 1 Semester 1 Semester 2 Work Term
Year 2 Semester 3 Semester 4  

Program Availability

Start in Location Availability
Sept. 2026 Newnham  Open
Jan. 2027 Newnham  Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in Location Availability
Sept. 2026 Newnham  Open
Jan. 2027 Newnham  Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

This program meets Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility requirements. (CIP code: 48.0501)

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.

Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.

International students applying for a PGWP: If you are in a flexible delivery course, you must attend in person as the option to attend online does not apply to you based on IRCC policy. Studying online will impact your PGWP eligibility. Please review the in-person requirements related to PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Your Career

Graduates of the program can pursue career opportunities in industries such as aerospace, defense, medical and automotive, including:

  • CAD designer
  • CAM programmer
  • CNC setup technician
  • CNC operator
  • Manufacturing technician
  • 3D scanning operator
  • Automation designer
  • Junior mould designer
  • Mould maker apprentice
  • Junior tool and die designer
  • Tool and die apprentice

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

CNC Labs

CNC Lab

You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our state-of-the-art CNC Lab, preparing you for your in-demand career.

Experiental Learning

Experiential Learning

Graduate career ready and world ready. This program has an optional work term to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Degree Pathways

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Prior Experience

Prior Experience

Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.

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