What is Metals Manufacturing?

Are you interested in creating products and working with cutting-edge technology? Metals Manufacturing is the process of transforming raw materials into finished products, combining technical skills, precision, and innovation. This field integrates machining, welding, CAD design, and quality control to ensure efficient and high-quality production across industries. 

At MSU-Northern, you’ll gain hands-on experience in CNC machining, welding, and 3D printing, preparing you for success in today’s modern manufacturing environments. With a strong foundation in safety protocols, production techniques, and design software, you’ll be equipped to develop and refine products across multiple industries. 

Why Choose the Metals Manufacturing Program?

MSU-Northern’s Metals Manufacturing program provides practical, hands-on training that prepares you for a high-demand career in manufacturing. You’ll develop expertise in computer-aided design (CAD), rapid prototyping, and metal fabrication, while also gaining experience with CNC machining, casting, robotics, and 3D printing—essential skills in today’s industry. 

With a focus on safety, quality control, and problem-solving, you’ll graduate with the versatile skill set needed to excel in various manufacturing roles. Small class sizes and personalized instruction ensure that you receive the support needed to master complex manufacturing techniques. 

Here are some of the things you'll learn:

  • CAD software to design products and components
  • Welding techniques for metal fabrication and assembly
  • Operate CNC machines for precision manufacturing
  • Work with 3D printing and additive manufacturing
  • Utilize prototyping techniques for rapid product development
  • Follow workplace safety and quality control procedures 

As a Metals Manufacturing student at MSU-Northern, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities, where you can gain real-world experience with CNC machines, welding equipment, and 3D printers. The program’s hands-on approach ensures that you graduate with industry-ready skills, preparing you for immediate employment in manufacturing and production. 

MSU-Northern’s Metals Manufacturing program stands out for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and industry-relevant skills. Our experienced faculty guide you through both traditional and modern manufacturing techniques, ensuring that you’re prepared for a rapidly evolving industry. With training in CAD, CNC machining, robotics, welding, and 3D printing, you’ll develop a broad and adaptable skill set that makes you a strong candidate for roles in engineering, quality control, and production management.

Northern’s Metals Manufacturing Program also has many classes with student guided projects. This means that in the later classes you have the option to pick your own projects and take them home after you’ve completed them. Students have created a variety of creative projects that they’ve dreamed up and taken home. What could be better for your manufacturing resume than a working machine that you had a hand in designing and making?  

A degree in Metals Manufacturing opens doors to exciting careers in industrial design, production, and quality assurance. With technical expertise and problem-solving skills, you’ll be ready for roles in CNC machining, metal fabrication, product development, and more. 

Potential Careers
Career Description Median Salary*

CNC Machinist 

 Operates computer numerical control (CNC) machines to produce precision metal parts, interpreting blueprints and ensuring adherence to specifications.  $48,550 
CAD Technician  Utilizes computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed technical drawings and plans for manufacturing products and structures.  $59,120
Welding Technician  Joins metal parts using various welding techniques, inspects welds for quality, and ensures compliance with safety standards.  $48,290
Manufacturing Engineer  Designs and optimizes manufacturing processes, implements efficient systems, and collaborates with other engineers to improve product quality and production efficiency.  $95,300
Production Supervisor  Manages daily operations on the production floor, oversees staff, ensures production targets are met, and maintains quality standards.  $72,457
Quality Control Inspector  Examines products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications, conducts tests, and maintains documentation to ensure quality standards are met.  $45,760

*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.

The Academic Map provides a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of courses required to complete the program.

Sample Courses:

  • Machine Drafting
  • Mig/Tig Welding
  • Manufacturing Processes and Materials 

Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities.  Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.

For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
 

Additional Program Costs

Machining/measurement tools (~$200),  
CNC Machine (for CNC class, ~$150),  
Monies needed to finish Capstone class project 

Aaron Riggin 
  Office: Brockmann Center 210 R
  Phone: (406) 265-3778