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Precision Machining Technology

Precision Machining Technology is a two-semester, nine-month diploma program designed to quickly prepare students for the growing number of machining jobs available.

Degree Description

The Precision Machining Technology graduate will be able to set up and operate a variety of of machine tools to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools. Machinists use machine tools, such as lathers, milling machines, and grinders, to produce precision metal parts. Although they may produce large quantities of one part, precision machinists often produce small batches or one-of-a-kind items. The parts that machinists make range from simple bolts of steel or brass to titanium bone screws for orthopedic implants. Hydraulic parts, anti-lock brakes and automobile pistons are other widely known products that machinists make.

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Application Process

1. Complete Western Dakota Tech Admissions Application
2. Complete the ACCUPLACER test ($15 fee)
3. Schedule your Admissions Advising Session
4. Submit High School transcript or GED scores (also submit official college transcripts if you have previously attended a post-secondary institution)
5. Submit Immunization Records verifying two doses of MMR vaccinations
6. Once you receive your acceptance letter, schedule a time to register for classes

(The ACCUPLACER test will be waived if you have an ACT sub-score of 18 or better in English, Math, and Reading, or a SAT sub-score of at least 40 in Verbal and Math.  The scores must be within the last five years.)

The ACCUPLACER test is offered Monday - Friday at 8:00 a.m. or 12:00 p.m.

Please call 605-718-2565 to make an appointment.

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Career Description

Program graduates will be qualified to work in machine shops, factories, and other businesses that produce and repair machinery, parts, and related items. The Precision Machining field is a crucial one that allows graduates to be prepared to work in an ever chaning industry. You will enter the job field ready to use mechanical blueprints and instructions for machining projects, produce machined parts to given tolerances, and much more.

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General Education EMT

After Earning Your Degree

Labor market information shows the demand for workers in the machining field is strong now and in the future. Through 2020, the number of machinists is expected to grow by 13.8 percent. And they earn an excellent living. Machinists in the Rapid City area earn an average hourly wage of $17.55.

Meet Your Faculty

Western Dakota Tech has a low student-to-faculty ratio, meaning more one-on-one learning. Individual attention from your professor can make your college experience more fulfilling.


Financial Aid

Continuing your education is crucial and Western Dakota Tech wants to make sure that any student who wants to attend school, has the opportunity to do so. For this reason, WDT is dedicated to administering the U.S. Department of Education’s Title IV Financial Assistance Program fair and consistently to anyone who needs it.

Build Dakota Scholarships

The Build Dakota Scholarship at Western Dakota Tech will pay all your tuition and fees and prepare you for a career that is in-demand and growing in South Dakota. Build Dakota Scholarships will be awarded to students entering high-need workforce programs at South Dakota’s technical institutes to fill the state’s technical careers with skilled professionals.

Student Housing

While Western Dakota Tech does not offer on-campus housing, we understand that finding a place to live within town while you go to school can be difficult. We have a few resources to help prospective students find affordable housing.

Child Care

Finding child care during school is a challenge for many students. Western Dakota Tech currently does not offer on-campus child care, but here are some resources that may help you in your search.

Youth & Family Services is an organization dedicated to helping children in Western South Dakota. They offer a variety of services, including child care at multiple locations.

The Y of Rapid City offers child care and other services.

Disclaimer: Western Dakota Tech provides these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply affiliation, endorsement or adoption by Western Dakota Tech of any site or any information contained therein. When you leave wdt.edu, you should be aware that our terms and policies no longer govern. Western Dakota Tech makes no claim or representation regarding, and accepts no responsibility for, the quality, content, nature or reliability of third-party websites or vendors.

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