Computer Integrated Manufacturing

Student using a CNC Machine

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Overview

Are you ready for a technical career as part of a machine shop using computer technology to turn raw materials into precision parts? Elgin Community College’s Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Program graduates leave school prepared for entry-level positions that ultimately lead to a career in application engineering. With your program of study, you’ll gain the skills needed to succeed as a programmer in advanced manufacturing machine safety, blueprint reading, math, CAD, CAM, metrology, and proper part inspection methods as part of the production and planning process.

Get additional information, including course listings and course descriptions.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The future employment outlook for Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is positive. The increasing demand for automation and technology integration in manufacturing processes is expected to drive the growth of CIM jobs. Forty-four thousand one hundred job openings are projected for the next decade.

Additionally, using CIM in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, is expected to drive job growth. However, it is important to note that the impact of automation and advancements in technology may lead to some job displacement. Individuals in the field need to keep updating their skills and knowledge to stay relevant in the job market. Refer to Career Coach to learn more about related professions and compensation.

Median Pay Rates

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the computer-integrated manufacturing plan of study and course descriptions.

Associate of Applied Science

Basic Vocational Certificates

Vocational Certificates

Careers in CIM

Graduates of our associate degree in business and certification programs have found employment in a wide variety of fields and positions, such as:

  • CNC Operator or Programmer
  • Computer-Aided Manufacturing Technician
  • General Machinist
  • Industrial Sales
  • Maintenance Machinist
  • Mold Maker
  • Machine Tool Operator
  • Set-Up Specialist
  • Special Machine Builder
  • Tool and Die Maker

CIM Certificates and Associate Degrees

Elgin Community College prepares you for jobs within 8-12 months, depending on your program of study. Start your career with a two-year Associate of Applied Science in Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Manufacturing Technology, or the Associate of Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology.

Are you already working in CAD/CAM or another manufacturing career?
Additional Mold Making, Machine Tool Operations, and Tool and Die Making certifications give you skills that could lead to career advancement or a pay raise in your current company.

Should I get a degree in CIM?

At ECC, you’ll have an academic advisor on day one to work with you on everything career-related. You’ll work together to design an educational plan tailored to your goal to get out into the workforce or start at a community college and then transfer to finish a bachelor’s degree. Your advisor will help you with a clear pathway to follow and help you get all the necessary information to make a well-informed decision about your future. Our specially negotiated transfer partnerships help you get ahead:

Do you think about getting a Bachelor of Science degree?

Learn what classes to take at ECC as part of the College’s Computer Integrated Manufacturing program that seamlessly transfers to a four-year school to complete your major after getting your Associate in Engineering Science degree by making an appointment with an academic advisor. 

Learn more about Associate Degree and Certifications in CIM at ECC!

Earning an AAS degree or certificate at Elgin Community College can set your career in motion.

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