CNC Operator

Description

Advantage Wire and Machine, Inc. (AWM) is a precision manufacturing company specializing in custom wire forms, machined components, and advanced manufacturing solutions. We serve a diverse customer base by producing high-quality, made-to-order parts using CNC machining, laser processing, and emerging technologies such as 3D scanning and 3D printing. AWM is committed to developing the next generation of skilled workers by providing hands-on learning opportunities in a real-world manufacturing environment.

The high school internship program is designed to introduce students to modern manufacturing operations while building foundational workplace and technical skills. The intern will work part-time alongside experienced professionals in a structured, supportive setting.

Supervision, Training, and Mentorship

The intern will be directly supervised by AWM’s shop supervisor and/or operations manager, with daily guidance from experienced machinists and production staff. Training will include:

• Workplace safety procedures and OSHA-aligned best practices

• Basic shop operations, tools, and equipment orientation

• Introduction to CNC machining, laser cutting, and inspection processes

• Exposure to engineering concepts such as part drawings, measurements, and quality control

Mentorship will be provided through one-on-one instruction, job shadowing, and regular check-ins to review progress, answer questions, and reinforce learning.

Learning Goals for the Intern

Our learning goals for the intern include:

• Gaining an understanding of manufacturing workflows from design to finished product

• Developing basic technical skills, including measurement, material handling, and equipment awareness

• Building strong soft skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and professionalism

• Learning the importance of quality, precision, and safety in a manufacturing setting

• Exploring career pathways in skilled trades, engineering, and manufacturing technology

By the end of the internship, the student will have practical experience, increased confidence in a workplace environment, and a clearer understanding of career opportunities in advanced manufacturing.

Responsibilities

The intern will participate in structured, skill-building projects designed for learning and career exploration rather than routine production work. Responsibilities will be hands-on and educational. 

• Manufacturing Process Exposure:
  Shadowing machinists and operators to observe CNC machining, laser processing, and wire forming operations, with guided explanations of each step in the production process.

• Introductory Shop Projects:
  Assisting with simple, non-production projects such as preparing materials, learning basic machine setup concepts, and completing supervised practice tasks that reinforce safety, measurement, and precision skills.

• Quality & Inspection Learning:
  Learning how parts are inspected using calipers, micrometers, and gauges; assisting with basic inspections under supervision and documenting results as a learning exercise.

• Engineering & Design Exposure:
  Observing how part drawings and specifications are interpreted; assisting with simple CAD reviews or 3D scanning/printing projects used for testing and learning—not customer production.

• Continuous Improvement Projects:
  Participating in small improvement projects such as organizing tools.

• Safety & Workplace Skills:
  Completing safety training modules, participating in safety walkthroughs, and learning proper material handling and shop etiquette.

• Career Exploration Activities:
  Job shadowing multiple roles (machining, quality, operations, engineering) to gain a broad understanding of manufacturing careers.

Administrative tasks will be limited to logging learning activities, assisting with basic documentation tied to projects, and completing required internship reflections or reports. The majority of the intern’s time will be spent on hands-on, supervised learning experiences that support workforce development and career readiness.

Qualifications

This internship is designed as an entry-level learning opportunity. No prior manufacturing or management experience is required.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Currently enrolled high school student (junior or senior preferred)

• Interest in manufacturing, skilled trades, engineering, or technology

• Willingness to learn and follow instructions

• Ability to work safely in a shop environment

• Basic math skills and ability to read simple measurements

• Dependable, punctual, and professional attitude

• Ability to work well with others and communicate effectively

All technical skills will be taught on the job through supervision, training, and mentorship.

Contact Information