Embedded Files
Course Description
Course Description
Welcome to Machining Technology & Welding! This course is designed to introduce students to the exciting world of manufacturing, machining, metal fabrication, and welding. Throughout the semester, students will develop technical skills while learning the importance of safety, teamwork, problem-solving, and craftsmanship.
Students will begin by learning proper shop safety, tool identification, and basic manufacturing principles before progressing to hands-on projects using industry-standard equipment. Instruction will include measuring and layout, blueprint reading, hand and power tools, machining operations, and introductory welding processes. Students will have the opportunity to build projects that reinforce classroom concepts while developing confidence in a safe shop environment.
This is a hands-on class. Students are expected to participate, follow all shop safety rules, take pride in their work, and treat equipment and classmates with respect. No previous experience is required—just a willingness to learn and work hard.
Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Demonstrate safe work habits and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Identify and safely operate common hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
Read and accurately use measuring tools such as rulers, tape measures, calipers, and micrometers.
Interpret basic technical drawings and blueprints.
Explain fundamental manufacturing welding and machining processes.
Perform introductory machining operations using shop equipment under instructor supervision.
Demonstrate basic welding skills using industry-standard procedures.
Apply problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to complete manufacturing projects.
Work effectively as part of a team while demonstrating professionalism and responsibility.
Produce quality projects that meet established specifications and safety standards.
What to Expect
What to Expect
Daily hands-on shop activities, projects, and demonstrations
Safety instruction and regular safety assessments
Individual and team projects
Classroom discussions and technical instruction
Skill evaluations and project-based assessments
Opportunities to develop real-world career and technical skills
Success in this class comes from being prepared, staying engaged, following safety procedures, and always giving your best effort. Whether you're exploring manufacturing for the first time or considering a future career in the skilled trades, this course will provide a strong foundation for success.
TCAT-Gordonsville is partnered with TCAT and every student enrolled in my class has the opportunity to earn hours for post secondary education for Machining or Welding from Tennessee College of applied technology.
Meet Your Instructor
My name is Josh Bennett, and I am excited to be teaching Machining technology and Welding.
Before becoming an educator, I worked as a toolmaker for eight years after graduating from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Hartsville. I hold a Machinist I diploma along with numerous industry certifications, including credentials through the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), Tooling U-SME, Esprit CAM, and SOLIDWORKS. I believe it is important to stay current with industry standards so I can provide students with the skills employers are looking for.
I chose to pursue a career in education because I wanted the opportunity to make a positive difference in students' lives. My goal is not only to teach technical skills in machining and welding but also to build meaningful relationships with students, encourage confidence, develop strong work habits, and prepare them for success whether they choose college, technical school, military service, or the workforce.
In addition to teaching, I have the privilege of coaching high school baseball, which is another passion of mine. Coaching allows me to mentor students outside the classroom while emphasizing teamwork, discipline, accountability, and perseverance—qualities that are just as important in the shop as they are on the field.
I look forward to an exciting year of learning, hands-on projects, and helping every student reach their full potential.
Resources
Email (josh.bennett@smithcoedu.net)
Advanced Manufacturing
State standards
Page updated
Report abuse