Mechanical Technician - Tool and Die/Tool Maker | Diploma

Program Overview

This two-year Ontario College Diploma program prepares students for entry into the tool and die/tool maker skilled trade or related manufacturing careers. It emphasizes hands-on training and covers topics such as blueprint reading, die design, machining, and shop safety. Graduates may be exempt from certain levels of the Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship program in Ontario and have career opportunities in various industries, including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and medical devices.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: This program prepares students for entry into the tool and die/tool maker skilled trade or related career in the manufacturing sector, including apprenticeship.
It focuses on teaching high-precision hand-fitting, positioning, aligning, and assembly techniques used in the production of stamping dies.
• Objectives: Graduates will have the knowledge and skills required for Level 1 and Level 2 of the Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship program in Ontario.
They may be exempt from taking exams for these levels and may not need to complete in-school apprenticeship training.
• Description: This program emphasizes hands-on training and incorporates paid co-op work experience in the optional co-op stream.
It covers various topics, including:
• Advanced blueprint reading
• Die design and construction
• Machining and tooling basics
• Shop safety practices
• Length: 2 years
• Campus: Cambridge – Reuter Dr.
• Delivery: Full-time
• Credential: Ontario College Diploma

Outline:

• Structure:
• Two semesters per year
• Academic semesters in Fall/Winter for Year 1 and Winter/Spring in Year 2 (optional co-op stream only)
• Spring term in Year 1 and Fall/Winter/Spring terms in Year 2 (non-co-op stream)
• Modules:
• Precision Machining Theory I and II
• Precision Machining Practice I and II
• Machine Tool Control Fundamentals
• Introduction to Robotics & Mechatronics
• Tool Design Theory I and II
• Tool & Die Making Theory and Practice
• CNC Programming: Manual/Conversational

Assessment:

• Assessment methods:
• Assignments
• Tests
• Projects
• Practical evaluations
• Co-op work performance

Teaching:

• Teaching methods:
• Lecture
• Discussion
• Demonstration
• Hands-on practice
• Project-based learning
• Faculty: Experienced faculty in the tool and die field with strong industry connections.

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Tool and die maker
• CNC Programmer
• Manufacturing Technician
• Quality Control Inspector
• Maintenance Technician
• Career opportunities:
• Automotive Manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Medical Devices
• Plastics & Packaging
• Tool & Die Shops

Other:

• Optional co-op stream: Allows students to gain valuable work experience during their program through two consecutive co-op terms.
This stream may only be available to students starting the program in Fall.
• Exemptions for apprenticeship program: Graduates may be exempt from taking exams for Levels 1 and 2 of the Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship program in Ontario and may not need to complete in-school apprenticeship training.
# Conclusion