Advanced Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing professionals design and improve products, operate high-tech tools and machinery, analyze problems, and come up with creative solutions. In Advanced Manufacturing, you will have the chance to work with both your hands and your mind.
Wondering what else is out there? Take our Career Interest Quiz if you’re not sure which pathway is for you.
Building Things Precisely
When Michelle Dirham expressed interest in switching careers, her husband encouraged
her to take a machining course at FVCC. “He reminded me that I like to build things
and that I insist on precision,” she said. She enrolled in a CNC machining course
and things clicked into place.
Having a variety of class times to choose from has been helpful. And the instructors
are very understanding and supportive
Michelle Dirham
The mother of three children is now well on her way to earning an Associate of Applied
Science degree in Industrial Machine Technology, as well as an Associate of Science
degree.
Certificate of Applied Science
One year of study.
Electromechanical Equipment Assembler
- Average Salary: $39,430
- Job Growth (10 yr): Slow
CNC Operator
- Average Salary: $46,330
- Job Growth (10 yr): Slow
Associate Degree/Certificate
Two years of study.
Industrial Electronics Repair
- Average Salary: $66,330
- Job Growth (10 yr): Slow
Machinist
- Average Salary: $53,320
- Job Growth (10 yr): Slow
Bachelor's Degree
Four years of study.
Photonics Engineer
- Average Salary: $80,900
- Job Growth (10 yr): Average
Industrial Production Manager
- Average Salary: $132,710
- Job Growth (10 yr): Average
Make Your Way Into the Advanced Manufacturing Field
Whether you’re just exploring in high school, still undecided as a college student,
or an adult who is wondering if this field is right for you, you can take steps today
to enter the advanced manufacturing field. Find out what you can do no matter where
you are.
- Engineering
- Electronics/Digital Electronics
- Robotics
- Computer Programming
- Business
- Drafting (CAD)
- Welding/Metals/Fabrication
- Shop Safety
- Construction
- OSHA Training
- Physics
- Senior Year Math
- Career Planning
- Photonics
- Process Plant Technology
- Computer Aided Manufacturing
- CNC Machining Technology
- Industrial Maintenance Technician
- Engineering Technology
- Job Shadow
- Pre-Apprenticeship
- Summer/Part-time Job
- Tour a CNC manufacturing facility or manufacturing business
- Attend College-Industry Events (i.e. TekNoExpo at MSU Northern, Manufacturing Day at Gallatin College, Women in Gear at Helena College, Industrial Expo at Missoula College)
- Automated Manufacturing Technologies
- Machine Operator
- CNC Machinist
- Design Engineer
- Manufacturing Technician
- Precision Measurement Inspector
- Manufacturing Quality Control