HAMLET – A machine technology course at Richmond Community College will give students the opportunity to be a machinist.

The 12-week course will run from Aug. 25 through Nov. 12 on the main campus in Hamlet. It will meet from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Forte Building There is a $180 fee for the non-curriculum course.

Students will learn about the basics of machining technology though a variety of hands-on activities. They will have the chance to measure tools, cut both hand and machine tools, gauge parts, read a micrometer, operate a lathe and measure using vernier scales.

“This course is designed to introduce beginners to the fundamental principles of machining,” said Clayton Dial, RCC instructor. “Students will learn about basic measuring tools and will be exposed to the setup and operations of manual lathes, mills and common operation processes.”

A trained machinist calculates dimensions and tolerances using knowledge of mathematics and instruments to perform a multitude of tasks.

“It will give people a feel for if this is something they would want to pursue,” said Wylie Bell the director of marketing and communication for the college. “If they want to further their education and get an actual diploma in it, they can go into engineering.”