Contact Information

- Division
- Business, Technology and Public Service
- Dean
- Jill Alcorn
- Associate Dean
- Vance Klinke

- Division Office
- B 3, Rocklin Campus
Gain hands-on skills to design, build and manufacture in the Computer Numeric Control (CNC) machining courses held in our state-of-the-art machining center. This program is affiliated with Gene Haas Foundation of Haas Automation, the largest CNC machine tool builder in the western world.
Learn the latest technologies and get exposure to the entire spectrum of manufacturing. Delve into computer modeling and creation. Design for technology applications on our brand-new Haas machines.
Advanced Manufacturing Advisory Committee
- AB Tools Inc., Lincoln, CA
- BackFlow Direct-Watts Water, Rancho Cordova, CA
- Folsom High School, Folsom, CA
- GBC Materials
- Golden Sierra Job Training Agency, Roseville, CA
- InSight Manufacturing Services, Rancho Cordova, CA
- John F Kennedy High School, Sacramento, CA
- Kratos Unmanned Aerial System
- Microform Precision LLC, Sacramento, CA
- Nevada Union High School, Grass Valley, CA
- Oasis Precision, Rocklin, CA
Degrees/Certificates
Associate Degree
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Advanced Manufacturing - Drafting Mechanical/Civil
- Certificate of Achievement
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Advanced Manufacturing - Drafting Mechanical/Civil
- Skills Certificate
- Mechanical Drafting Specialist
Advanced Manufacturing - CNC Programming and Operation
AS Degree
The Sierra College Advanced Manufacturing Program prepares students for Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machining and is also ideal for students who need to upgrade prior machine shop training to comply with the current needs of the industry.
For the degree, students must fulfill the following major requirements with grades of “C” or better, complete a minimum of 60 degree-applicable semester units (12 of which must be completed at Sierra College) with a grade point average of at least 2.0 and complete one of the following three general education patterns:
- Sierra College Associate Degree Requirements (Local General Education)
- California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC)
Required Courses:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| AAD 0070 | Graphic Design II: Introduction to Digital Design | 3 |
| ADVM 0001A | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I | 3 |
| ADVM 0002A | Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes | 2 |
| ADVM 0002B | Introduction to Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing | 3 |
| ADVM 0003D | Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | 3 |
| ADVM 0004A | CNC Cutting and Fabrication Level I | 2 |
| ADVM 0005A | CNC Milling Machine Operation | 2 |
| ADVM 0005B | CNC Milling Machine Setup | 2 |
| ADVM 0005C | CNC Milling Level 1 | 2 |
| ADVM 0005D | CNC Milling Level 2 | 2 |
| ADVM 0005E | CNC Milling Level 3 | 2 |
| Select 6-9 units from the following: | 6-9 | |
| Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting II | ||
| Advanced Computer Aided Design Modeling | ||
| Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing | ||
| CNC Milling with 4th and 5th Axis | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Internship in Advanced Manufacturing | ||
| The Science of Electronics | ||
| Fundamentals of Mechatronics | ||
| Introduction to Welding and Fabrication | ||
| Gas Metal Arc Welding of Mild Carbon Steel on Sheet and Plate | ||
| Gas Tungsten Arc Welding of Mild Carbon Steel on Sheet and Plate | ||
| Welding Metallography | ||
| Total Units | 32-35 | |
Mechanical Computer Aided Design and Drafting
(formerly Drafting and Engineering Support—Mechanical/Civil)
(formerly Advanced Manufacturing - Drafting Mechanical/Civil)
AA or AS Degree
Successful completion of the curriculum in Mechanical Computer Aided Design and Drafting degree prepares students for entry-level positions as document support technicians in the fields of mechanical design, mechanical engineering and product development. For the degree, students must fulfill the following major requirements with grades of “C” or better, complete a minimum of 60 degree-applicable semester units (12 of which must be completed at Sierra College) with a grade point average of at least 2.0 and complete one of the following three general education patterns:
- Sierra College Associate Degree Requirements (Local General Education)
- California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC)
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| AAD 0070 | Graphic Design II: Introduction to Digital Design | 3 |
| ADVM 0001A | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I | 3 |
| ADVM 0001B | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting II | 3 |
| ADVM 0001C | Advanced Computer Aided Design Modeling | 3 |
| ADVM 0001D | Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing | 3 |
| ADVM 0002A | Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes | 2 |
| ADVM 0003D | Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | 3 |
| ADVM 0004A | CNC Cutting and Fabrication Level I | 2 |
| ENGL 0012 | Writing in the Workplace | 3 |
| Select 4-6 units from the following: | 4-6 | |
| Introduction to Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing | ||
| CNC Milling Machine Operation | ||
| CNC Milling Machine Setup | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Internship in Advanced Manufacturing | ||
| The Science of Electronics | ||
| Introduction to Welding and Fabrication | ||
| Welding Metallography | ||
| Total Units | 29-31 | |
Optional Recommended Electives:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | ||
| Managing the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Environment | ||
| Engineering Surveying | ||
| Manual Metal Arc Welding of Mild Carbon Steel Fillet Welds |
Advanced Manufacturing - CNC Programming and Operation
Certificate of Achievement
The Sierra College Advanced Manufacturing Program prepares students for Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machining and is also ideal for students who need to upgrade prior machine shop training to comply with the current needs of the industry. The Advanced Manufacturing certificate of achievement provides a comprehensive understanding of the skills necessary for success in the Advanced Manufacturing industry. This program is designed to enable the student to enter industry with problem-solving skills in design, production, planning, materials handling, quality control, inspection and programming with computer-aided controls. The student, upon the successful completion of the program, will have job–entry skill and career advancement opportunities.
A certificate is designed to provide career technical skills; it is not equivalent to an associate degree.
Required Courses:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| AAD 0070 | Graphic Design II: Introduction to Digital Design | 3 |
| ADVM 0001A | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I | 3 |
| ADVM 0002A | Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes | 2 |
| ADVM 0002B | Introduction to Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing | 3 |
| ADVM 0003D | Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | 3 |
| ADVM 0004A | CNC Cutting and Fabrication Level I | 2 |
| ADVM 0005A | CNC Milling Machine Operation | 2 |
| ADVM 0005B | CNC Milling Machine Setup | 2 |
| ADVM 0005C | CNC Milling Level 1 | 2 |
| ADVM 0005D | CNC Milling Level 2 | 2 |
| ADVM 0005E | CNC Milling Level 3 | 2 |
| Total Units | 26 | |
Mechanical Computer Aided Design and Drafting
(Formerly Advanced Manufacturing—Drafting Mechanical/Civil)
(Formerly Drafting and Engineering Support—Mechanical/Civil)
Certificate of Achievement
Successful completion of the curriculum in Mechanical Computer Aided Design and Drafting prepares students for entry-level positions as document support technicians in the fields of mechanical and civil engineering. A certificate is designed to provide career technical skills; it is not equivalent to an associate degree.
Required Courses:
Optional Recommended Electives:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | ||
| Managing the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Environment | ||
| Engineering Surveying | ||
| Manual Metal Arc Welding of Mild Carbon Steel Fillet Welds |
Required Courses:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| AAD 0070 | Graphic Design II: Introduction to Digital Design | 3 |
| ADVM 0001A | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I | 3 |
| ADVM 0001B | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting II | 3 |
| ADVM 0001C | Advanced Computer Aided Design Modeling | 3 |
| ADVM 0001D | Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing | 3 |
| ADVM 0002A | Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes | 2 |
| ADVM 0003D | Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | 3 |
| ADVM 0004A | CNC Cutting and Fabrication Level I | 2 |
| ENGL 0012 | Writing in the Workplace | 3 |
| Total Units | 25 | |
Mechanical Drafting Specialist
Skills Certificate
Designed to give students the advanced drafting support knowledge and abilities required to enter the workforce at the specialist level. Focuses on skills relative to specialized mechanical documentation such as is used in aerospace and automotive drafting. Appropriate for students seeking retraining. Will help successful candidates prepare to sit for the professional ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing certification exam. This is a specialty skills certificate designed to provide career technical skills; it is not equivalent to an associate degree.
Required Courses:
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ADVM 0001A | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I | 3 |
| ADVM 0001B | Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting II | 3 |
| ADVM 0001D | Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing | 3 |
| ADVM 0002A | Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes | 2 |
| ADVM 0003D | Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing | 3 |
| Total Units | 14 | |
Courses
Understanding course descriptions
ADVM 0001A. Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting I
Units: 3
Formerly known as ADVM 0001
Advisory: Not recommended to take concurrently with ADVM 0002A
Hours: 90 (36 lecture; 54 laboratory which may be scheduled TBA)
This course covers the principles of engineering drawings in visually communicating engineering designs and an introduction to computer-aided design (CAD). Topics include the development of visualization skills, orthographic projections, mechanical dimensioning, and tolerancing practices, and the engineering design process. Assignments develop sketching and 2-D and 3-D CAD skills. The use of CAD software is an integral part of the course. This course teaches introductory 3D CAD skills and is designed for students with no previous experience in engineering design/drafting. (CSU)
ADVM 0001B. Computer Aided Design for Mechanical Design and Drafting II
Units: 3
Formerly known as ADVM 0002
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0001A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by the instructor
Hours: 90 (36 lecture; 54 laboratory which may be scheduled TBA)
Intermediate concepts of engineering design, including sections, auxiliaries, threads, fasteners, and dimensional tolerancing. Basic concepts of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. Design for manufacturability and assembly explored to include material selection and properties of materials. This course teaches intermediate 3D CAD skills. Designed for students who have attained a fundamental knowledge of the processes and practices of engineering design/drafting. (CSU)
ADVM 0001C. Advanced Computer Aided Design Modeling
Units: 3
Formerly known as ADVM 0011
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0001B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Hours: 90 (36 lecture; 54 laboratory which may be scheduled TBA)
Processes employed in developing design solutions using a feature-based parametric Computer Aided Design mechanical solid model design software. Includes 3D part modeling using advanced model geometry techniques, development of Model Based Definition (MBD) annotated models per ASME Y14.41 standards, and advanced model assembly techniques. (CSU, UC)
ADVM 0001D. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing
Units: 3
Formerly known as ADVM 0012
Hours: 54 lecture
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0001A or ENGR 0151 with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Advisory: Completion of ADVM 0001B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
This course expands upon the basic knowledge of dimensioning mechanical drawings by adding form and feature controls in order to clearly define parts. Review of basic dimensioning and tolerancing. Topics, as defined in ASME Standards, include geometric tolerancing symbols and terms, rules of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, datums, material condition symbols, tolerances of form and profile, tolerances of orientation and runout, location tolerances, and virtual condition. (CSU)
ADVM 0002A. Computer Aided Design for Manufacturing Processes
Units: 2
Advisory: Not recommended to take concurrently with ADVM 0001A
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
This introductory course focuses on the fundamentals of parametric Computer Aided Design (CAD) for manufacturing applications. Students will learn to create fully defined sketches, parametric 3D part assembly models, using industry-standard CAD tools. The course provides an overview of how CAD models serve as the foundation for downstream processes, such as technical documentation, Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), CNC machining, Additive Manufacturing (AM), and Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design. Emphasis is placed on developing essential modeling skills, understanding design intent, and recognizing how CAD data supports various stages of the manufacturing process. (not transferable)
ADVM 0002B. Introduction to Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing
Units: 3
Formerly known as ADVM 0062
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0002A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Hours: 90 (36 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Introduction to Computer Aided Design (CAD) parametric modeling and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) using CAD/CAM software. Covers practical on-the-job parametric modeling skills needed for precision machining. Students will learn skills needed to read and understand detailed drawings, create 3D CAD model files, develop a process plan for machining parts, and create CNC tool paths for manufacturing processes. (not transferable)
ADVM 0003D. Design for Additive Manufacturing - 3D Printing
Units: 3
Formerly known as DES 3D
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0002A with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Hours: 90 (36 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Design for the additive manufacturing industry (3D printing). An in-depth look at the product design process and how it is used to create complex geometric models to satisfy defined requirements. An exploration of additive manufacturing's (or 3D printing's) impact on conventional manufacturing. Designed for students who are planning to pursue a career in Advanced Manufacturing. (not transferable)
ADVM 0004A. CNC Cutting and Fabrication Level I
Units: 2
Formerly known as ADVM 0063
Advisory: Completion of AAD 0070 with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
This course introduces the application of design solutions using Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) cutting and fabrication processes used in product prototyping and light manufacturing. Students design parts and assemblies using graphic design software and prepare digital files for 2-axis CNC laser and waterjet cutting and engraving operations. This entry-level course covers the safe setup and operation of CNC cutting machines and associated support equipment. Students fabricate components from wood, plastics, and sheet metal and apply basic forming, assembly, and finishing techniques. Laboratory activities progress from structured skill development to integrated projects, culminating in a student-developed prototype capstone project. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005A. CNC Milling Machine Operation
Units: 2
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Introduction to Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Milling Machine operation. This course provides the basic knowledge necessary for a CNC milling machine operator and prepares the student for industry certification. It introduces basic CNC machine operation, proper machine safety, and fundamental machining processes. Students learn the basics of indexing, loading parts, part quality inspection, tool nomenclature, and safely operating milling machines while running pre-validated programs. This course prepares students for entry-level employment and certification as a CNC Milling Machine Operator. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005B. CNC Milling Machine Setup
Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0005A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Introduces the setup of Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) milling machine operation. This course provides the basic knowledge necessary for a CNC milling machine set-up operator to validate CNC programs and machine set-up. It introduces students to basic CNC machine set-up principles, including setting tool length and work coordinate systems to machine parts safely and accurately. Students learn the basics of cutting tools and work holding technology. This course covers the first article inspection process, cutting tool nomenclature, and safely setting up and running milling machines to set up sheets for pre-validated programs. This course prepares students for entry-level employment as a CNC Milling Machine Set-up Operator. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005C. CNC Milling Level 1
Units: 2
Formerly known as ADVM 0066
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0002B and ADVM 0005B with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Intermediate course making machined parts from start to finish using Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) vertical milling machines. Students will learn how to program three-axis CNC toolpaths using Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software, set up tools and work holding using Wireless Intuitive Probing System (WIPS), and run their programs on CNC vertical machining centers. After machining the parts, students will use common industry measuring and inspection techniques to ensure their parts are in tolerance. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005D. CNC Milling Level 2
Units: 2
Formerly known as ADVM 0067
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0005C with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Applications using three-axis CNC machining. Developing complicated part geometry with Computer Aided Design (CAD), importing files, planning machine operations, and developing machine codes by Computer-Aided Machining (CAM). Includes simulation modeling used to proof the assigned laboratory exercises and set-up for 3 axis operation of CNC machining centers. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005E. CNC Milling Level 3
Units: 2
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0005D with a grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Advanced applications of three-axis CNC surface contour machining. Students develop complex part geometry using Computer-Aided Design (CAD), import and process models in Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) environments, and create machine code for 3-axis contour machining. Emphasis is placed on advanced workholding and fixture design, including the use of fixture clamps, locating devices, and modular fixturing systems for accurate and repeatable setups. Students plan machining operations, optimize toolpaths, and validate programs through simulation and verification. Projects culminate in the production of complex contoured components machined safely and accurately on 3-axis machining center. (not transferable)
ADVM 0005F. CNC Milling with 4th and 5th Axis
Units: 2
Formerly known as ADVM 0068
Prerequisite: Completion of ADVM 0005E with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 72 (18 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Advanced CNC machining 4th and 5th axis Mill work. Developing complicated part geometry with Computer Aided Design (CAD), Post process CAM tool path development, planning machine operations, and developing machine codes and techniques for cost effectiveness. CNC multi axis vertical and universal mill operations. (CSU)
ADVM 0028. Independent Study
Units: 1-3
Designed for students interested in furthering their knowledge at an independent study level in an area where no specific curriculum offering is currently available. Independent study might include, but is not limited to, research papers, special subject area projects, and research projects. See Independent Study page in catalog. (CSU, UC-with unit limitation)
ADVM 0095. Internship in Advanced Manufacturing
Units: 0.5-4
Designed for advanced students to work in an area related to their educational or occupational goal. Provides new on-the-job technical training under the direction of a worksite supervisor, allowing students to expand knowledge and skills in the chosen field. Mandatory orientation session and faculty approval to determine eligibility. One unit of credit is equal to 54 hours of work. Students may earn up to a total of 16 units in internship courses (any course numbered 95 and PDEV 94). (CSU-with unit limitation)
Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)
- Create and analyze basic CAD drawing files for use in mechanical systems
- Evaluate an industrial process based on principles of Computer Integrated Manufacturing
- Identify necessary tools and describe tool offsets and part offsets for machining designed parts
- Design programing using CAM and basic G code to machine parts on a CNC turning center and CNC milling center that meet the part specification
- Describe and evaluate Geometric Dimensioning and tolerancing of parts from design


