IMPORTANT NEWS!
During the TMA school year, TMA has a limited enrollment of 48 YEAR 1 students. This is mainly due to the increased technology used throughout the Year 3 program. To maintain a healthy student-to-technology (Computers, simulators, and machines) ratio, we have to limit Year 1 enrollment numbers at this time.
No students can enroll in Year 1 without completing the program enrollment requirements.
At this time, 0 seats remain available.
TMA will reopen Entrance Exam testing on January 16th, 2025, for the fall 2025 school year.
During the TMA school year, TMA has a limited enrollment of 48 YEAR 1 students. This is mainly due to the increased technology used throughout the Year 3 program. To maintain a healthy student-to-technology (Computers, simulators, and machines) ratio, we have to limit Year 1 enrollment numbers at this time.
No students can enroll in Year 1 without completing the program enrollment requirements.
At this time, 0 seats remain available.
TMA will reopen Entrance Exam testing on January 16th, 2025, for the fall 2025 school year.
General Information:
TMA’s 3-year Related Theory Apprentice Program totals 504 hours of classroom instruction, 168 hours per year. TMA currently offers three tracks: Tool and Die, Mold Making, and CNC programming. The TMA Related Theory Apprentice Training Program has been assisting member companies in training their apprentices for over 75 years. It is one of the largest, most recognized precision metalworking apprenticeship programs in the United States. It is designed so students can work during the day and attend classes in the evening from 6 pm to 9pm. All our instructors have a minimum of 10 years in the industry, they too work during the day and teach for us in the evenings.
TMA’s 3-year Related Theory Apprentice Program totals 504 hours of classroom instruction, 168 hours per year. TMA currently offers three tracks: Tool and Die, Mold Making, and CNC programming. The TMA Related Theory Apprentice Training Program has been assisting member companies in training their apprentices for over 75 years. It is one of the largest, most recognized precision metalworking apprenticeship programs in the United States. It is designed so students can work during the day and attend classes in the evening from 6 pm to 9pm. All our instructors have a minimum of 10 years in the industry, they too work during the day and teach for us in the evenings.
Program Requirements:
- Successful completion of TMA Entrance Exam. Click HERE for more information.
- Proof of high school diploma or GED required.
- Access to internet for the school year, to complete an assignment, take a quiz, and/or attend class online LIVE.
- Access to a computer (laptop or desktop) that meets the minimum requirements, outlined by TMA. See HERE
- A minimum of 6 months experience in the mfg. industry (NEW)
Schedule:
Classes run from September to April with a break during mid-December to early January.
2024-2025 Schedule
All classes run from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
- Successful completion of TMA Entrance Exam. Click HERE for more information.
- Proof of high school diploma or GED required.
- Access to internet for the school year, to complete an assignment, take a quiz, and/or attend class online LIVE.
- Access to a computer (laptop or desktop) that meets the minimum requirements, outlined by TMA. See HERE
- A minimum of 6 months experience in the mfg. industry (NEW)
Schedule:
Classes run from September to April with a break during mid-December to early January.
2024-2025 Schedule
All classes run from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
|
Year 1
Mondays and Wednesdays: First Semester: 9/4/24 - 12/11/24 Second Semester: 1/6/25 - 4/9/25 No Class: 11/27/24 Tuesdays and Thursdays: First Semester: 9/5/24 - 12/12/24 Second Semester: 1/9/25 - 4/11/25 No Class: 11/28/24 |
Year 2
Basic Mold Making: Mon. & Wed. First Semester: 9/4/24 - 12/11/24 Second Semester: 1/6/25 - 4/9/25 No Class: 11/27/24 Basic Tool & Die Making : Tues. & Thur. First Semester: 9/5/24 - 12/12/24 Second Semester: 1/9/25 - 4/11/25 No Class: 11/28/24 Basic CNC Programming : Tues. & Thur. First Semester: 9/5/24 - 12/12/24 Second Semester: 1/9/25 - 4/11/25 No Class: 11/28/24 |
Year 3
Advanced Mold Making: Mon. & Wed. First Semester: 9/4/24 - 12/11/24 Second Semester: 1/6/25 - 4/9/25 No Class: 11/27/24 Advanced Tool & Die Making: Mon. & Wed. First Semester: 9/4/24 - 12/11/24 Second Semester: 1/6/25 - 4/9/25 No Class: 11/27/24 Advanced CNC Programming: Mon. & Wed. First Semester: 9/4/24 - 12/11/24 Second Semester: 1/6/25 - 4/9/25 No Class: 11/27/24 |
Enrollment Process:
This is typically driven by the sponsor company communicating with TMA Training and Education admin.
STEP 1: Have your apprentice candidate/employee meet the Entrance Requirement by successfully completing the Entrance Exam and show proof of high school diploma or GED. The entrance exam requires a scheduled testing date with TMA Training and Education admin. You can schedule a testing date using this link HERE. At this time, TMA will also require a declared track confirmation of either Tool and Die, Mold Making, or CNC Programming. TMA will send the company contact a copy of the test results the same day. If an individual fails, we will provide next steps or alternative options.
STEP 2: TMA obtains company approval/confirmation to proceed with enrollment into the program.
STEP 3: Officially enroll in the program. TMA Training and Education admin will register and send an invoice/confirmation via email. Both semesters are billed at the start of the year. No refund is provided if an apprentice drops during the program.
STEP 4: TMA Training and Education admin will send out reminders about class starting along with more info on the class such as classrooms, etc.
STEP 5: First day of class/orientation. All incoming students new to the program, will need to complete TMA orientation. Students will receive their books and materials either on the first day of class or at orientation
Other info: Students are required to successfully pass each class before proceeding to the next classes. TMA will reach out at the end of the school year about registration for Year 2/3 when registration opens (Typically in May/June)
Program Policies
Entrance Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
All first-year students must supply evidence of a high school diploma or GED before their registration will be accepted. A photocopy of the original is satisfactory.
Entrance Testing
All first-year students must complete TMA’s Entrance Exam prior to registration. Satisfactory scores must be met on the three assessments, Applied Machine Technology Math, Print Reading and Spatial Relations, and Machine Tool Technology. A score of 70% or higher is required per exam. Any required retake of any portion of the Entrance Exam must be completed within 2 weeks' time. After 3 failed attempts, TMA strongly recommends that the individual take a pre-course class. TMA would provide further information on which class to take.
Enrollment Policy
Individuals who successfully pass TMA’s Entrance Exam have two weeks to officially enroll, in order to secure their spot in the program. Failure to enroll within the two weeks will jeopardize their spot. At the time of registration, it is required for students to declare the apprentice track they intend on continuing onto in Year 2 of the program. Any student who needs to change tracks after already declaring one may risk not having a seat available for Year 2.
Attendance Policy
Students will be allowed a maximum of two absences per semester. All homework and class assignments assigned during the student’s time of absence must be handed in on the intended due date, assume that no extensions will be given unless otherwise directed by TMA. When a TMA member student reaches the maximum number of absences in a semester, instructors are required to alert TMA so that the employer can be notified. Students reaching this maximum number cannot have any more absences or they will risk being disenrolled from the program. The only excused absences will require documentation from the student’s doctor.
Tardiness
Students who miss the first 15 minutes of class will be marked tardy or late. This will be tracked against student’s attendance. Three marked tardies or late days, equals one absence which is counted against the allowed maximum of two absences per semester.
Employment Policy
Apprentice Training students must be employed by a TMA member company for a minimum of 6 months in order to attend classes. Any student who is separated from employment by their sponsoring employer must secure employment with another TMA member company before he/she will be allowed to resume classes.
Emergency Closings
TMA classes may be closed in the event of inclement weather. If class should be canceled, TMA will announce to instructors directly that the TMA building is closed for in-person classes. TMA Instructors will notify their students if class will either be held remotely online instead of in-person, if applicable or cancelled and made up at another time. Never assume school is closed. Students may call the TMA Education Department at 847-849-5334 to check on the status of classes. Students can also verify a class status by logging onto Canvas to see if any announcements have been posted about class.
Student Evaluation of Instruction
At the end of each school year, students will be asked to complete a confidential “Student Evaluation of Instruction” form. This questionnaire is a tool through which students may communicate information that is useful in improving instructional quality.
Textbooks and Supplies
Textbooks will be ordered and distributed by TMA. Companies will be billed textbook and supply costs separately. All students in the Apprentice Training program will be required to have a copy of the current Machinery’s Handbook and the TI-30Xa calculator provided in the first year of the program. Access to internet for the school year, is also required, whether it’s to complete an assignment, take a quiz, and/or attend class online LIVE. In addition, access to a computer (laptop or desktop) that meets the minimum requirements, as outlined by TMA. Obtaining this device must be completed prior to the beginning of the school year.
Transcripts
Upon written request from the apprentice, transcripts can be made available at no cost. Once your request has been received, allow up to 3 weeks to receive your copy.
Food, Drug, and Alcohol Policy
While on TMA property, students must adhere to all federal, state, and local laws including, but not limited to, the possession and/or public consumption of alcohol and the possession and/or use of illegal substances.
Students are permitted to bring food into the building and consume it prior to the start of class. No food is permitted inside the classroom. Students may utilize the TMA Kitchen area.
Grading Policy
Grades will be based on midterm exams, final exams, and any quizzes or homework the instructor assigns. A passing grade is 70% or higher. Midterm and final grades are sent to employers.
Grading Scale
100 - 90 A
89 - 80 B
79 - 70 C
69 and below: Failing
Grade Weighing
5% Attendance
15% Class Participation
25% Homework / Assignments (in-class or at home)
25% Quizzes/Tests
30% Final
Late Work Policy
Staying on top of your class work is essential to your success. If you turn in work after the due date, your assignment’s final grade will be deducted by 10% for each day late. No work will be accepted ten days after the deadline resulting in a 0%. For example one day late results in a 10% deduction, two days late results in 20% deduction, etc.
Academic Integrity Policy
Students must complete their graded work independently to satisfactorily complete this course. It is welcomed and encouraged that they ask for help from journeypersons, coworkers, or peers to understand course concepts better. However, cheating, forgery, or academic dishonesty of any kind will not be tolerated. TMA defines academic dishonesty as turning in someone else’s work and claiming it as your own. Those who are found to be engaged in academic dishonesty will receive a “0” on their assignment, and their member company will be called.
Course Information
Year 1The first-year course, which is the cornerstone of the Apprentice Program, covers math, print reading, basics of machine tool technology, and includes hands-on training. TMA requires all Year 1 students to declare which track they will continue onto in Year 2 and 3.
Course 101/Industrial Math II | 42 hours: 14 weekly sessions
CONTENT: The primary objective of this course is to present mathematical concepts and practical application of concepts that are generally required by skilled employees in the machine trades. Course content includes application of mathematical operations of fractions, decimals, whole numbers and mixed numbers. Ratio and proportion, linear measurement, and fundamentals of algebra are also covered in relation to their use in industry. Numerous problem-solving sessions are formatted to industry settings and oriented toward trigonometric readiness.
Course 102/Industrial Print Reading/GD&T | 33 hours: 11 weekly sessions
CONTENT: An entry-level course in print reading for the beginning apprentice. A study of print reading including orthographic theory, line convention, pictorial representation, types of drawings, sections, auxiliaries, line convention, and introduction to GD&T.
Course 103/Industrial Math III | 42 hours: 14 weekly sessions
CONTENT: A continuation of industrial mathematics with emphasis on right angle trigonometry, solid geometry, oblique triangles, and applied math for inspection, setup, and practical problem-solving.
Course 104/Machine Tool Theory & Machine Shop Lab | 33 hours : 11 weekly sessions
CONTENT: An entry-level course in the study, use, and applications of machining equipment relative to precision machining, including Introduction to CNC. This course includes the study of basic safety, materials, process planning, process control, layout, measurement, carbide tooling, heat treatment, metal composition and classification, preventative maintenance, and math applications related to machining and metal cutting mechanics.
Course 105/Intro to CAD | 18 hours : 6 weekly sessions
CONTENT: This course will focus on learning the CAD User Interface, Sketching, and introduction to Modeling. In addition to creating Sketches, they will learn Smart Dimensioning, Trimming, Filleting, and Extruding. The course will also cover File Management The software used in this class will be Solidworks.
Year 2 Students will continue onto one of the following three tracks during Year 2
Course 201/Basic Tool & Die | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice tool and die maker. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as process planning, process control, heat treatment, and identification of steels. Students will learn tool and die making basics including shop safety, types of dies, principles of blanking/piercing dies, bending, screw and dowel holes, die life, die-block construction, and stock material utilization and strip layouts. Additional content includes die components (punches, pilots, strippers and stock guides, shedders and knockouts, nest gages, pushers, die stops and die sets) and basic die making applications.
Course 202/Basic Mold Making | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice mold maker. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as the basics of mold making, project planning, types of molds, mold components, and basic design. Students will learn about mold making processes including heat treating, polishing, welding, hole popping, laser engraving and programming, heating and cooling, gates and runners, and thermoforming. Additional content includes methods of mold machining.
Course 203/Basic CNC Programming | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice CNC programmer. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as process planning, statistical process control, heat treatment, and metallurgy. Students will learn CNC machining basics including shop safety, lathe/mill setup and operation, workholding, tool assembly, and how to set work and tool offsets. Additional content includes lathe and mill operations, surface grinding operations, machinability of materials, an introduction to continuous improvement and 5S, and more.
Year 3 Students will build on their skills learned from Year 2 during Year 3.
Course 301/Advanced Tool & Die | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their tool and die apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic Tool & Die, and takes a more comprehensive look at different types of dies and how they are constructed. More complex compound and progressive dies are thoroughly examined, focusing on their components, use, and construction.
Course 302/Advanced Mold Making | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their mold making apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic Mold Making, and will examine more complex concepts related to mold design and construction.
Course 303/ Advanced CNC Programming | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their CNC programming apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic CNC Programming, and covers more complex methods of CNC programming and machining.
This is typically driven by the sponsor company communicating with TMA Training and Education admin.
STEP 1: Have your apprentice candidate/employee meet the Entrance Requirement by successfully completing the Entrance Exam and show proof of high school diploma or GED. The entrance exam requires a scheduled testing date with TMA Training and Education admin. You can schedule a testing date using this link HERE. At this time, TMA will also require a declared track confirmation of either Tool and Die, Mold Making, or CNC Programming. TMA will send the company contact a copy of the test results the same day. If an individual fails, we will provide next steps or alternative options.
STEP 2: TMA obtains company approval/confirmation to proceed with enrollment into the program.
STEP 3: Officially enroll in the program. TMA Training and Education admin will register and send an invoice/confirmation via email. Both semesters are billed at the start of the year. No refund is provided if an apprentice drops during the program.
STEP 4: TMA Training and Education admin will send out reminders about class starting along with more info on the class such as classrooms, etc.
STEP 5: First day of class/orientation. All incoming students new to the program, will need to complete TMA orientation. Students will receive their books and materials either on the first day of class or at orientation
Other info: Students are required to successfully pass each class before proceeding to the next classes. TMA will reach out at the end of the school year about registration for Year 2/3 when registration opens (Typically in May/June)
Program Policies
Entrance Requirements
High School Diploma or GED
All first-year students must supply evidence of a high school diploma or GED before their registration will be accepted. A photocopy of the original is satisfactory.
Entrance Testing
All first-year students must complete TMA’s Entrance Exam prior to registration. Satisfactory scores must be met on the three assessments, Applied Machine Technology Math, Print Reading and Spatial Relations, and Machine Tool Technology. A score of 70% or higher is required per exam. Any required retake of any portion of the Entrance Exam must be completed within 2 weeks' time. After 3 failed attempts, TMA strongly recommends that the individual take a pre-course class. TMA would provide further information on which class to take.
Enrollment Policy
Individuals who successfully pass TMA’s Entrance Exam have two weeks to officially enroll, in order to secure their spot in the program. Failure to enroll within the two weeks will jeopardize their spot. At the time of registration, it is required for students to declare the apprentice track they intend on continuing onto in Year 2 of the program. Any student who needs to change tracks after already declaring one may risk not having a seat available for Year 2.
Attendance Policy
Students will be allowed a maximum of two absences per semester. All homework and class assignments assigned during the student’s time of absence must be handed in on the intended due date, assume that no extensions will be given unless otherwise directed by TMA. When a TMA member student reaches the maximum number of absences in a semester, instructors are required to alert TMA so that the employer can be notified. Students reaching this maximum number cannot have any more absences or they will risk being disenrolled from the program. The only excused absences will require documentation from the student’s doctor.
Tardiness
Students who miss the first 15 minutes of class will be marked tardy or late. This will be tracked against student’s attendance. Three marked tardies or late days, equals one absence which is counted against the allowed maximum of two absences per semester.
Employment Policy
Apprentice Training students must be employed by a TMA member company for a minimum of 6 months in order to attend classes. Any student who is separated from employment by their sponsoring employer must secure employment with another TMA member company before he/she will be allowed to resume classes.
Emergency Closings
TMA classes may be closed in the event of inclement weather. If class should be canceled, TMA will announce to instructors directly that the TMA building is closed for in-person classes. TMA Instructors will notify their students if class will either be held remotely online instead of in-person, if applicable or cancelled and made up at another time. Never assume school is closed. Students may call the TMA Education Department at 847-849-5334 to check on the status of classes. Students can also verify a class status by logging onto Canvas to see if any announcements have been posted about class.
Student Evaluation of Instruction
At the end of each school year, students will be asked to complete a confidential “Student Evaluation of Instruction” form. This questionnaire is a tool through which students may communicate information that is useful in improving instructional quality.
Textbooks and Supplies
Textbooks will be ordered and distributed by TMA. Companies will be billed textbook and supply costs separately. All students in the Apprentice Training program will be required to have a copy of the current Machinery’s Handbook and the TI-30Xa calculator provided in the first year of the program. Access to internet for the school year, is also required, whether it’s to complete an assignment, take a quiz, and/or attend class online LIVE. In addition, access to a computer (laptop or desktop) that meets the minimum requirements, as outlined by TMA. Obtaining this device must be completed prior to the beginning of the school year.
Transcripts
Upon written request from the apprentice, transcripts can be made available at no cost. Once your request has been received, allow up to 3 weeks to receive your copy.
Food, Drug, and Alcohol Policy
While on TMA property, students must adhere to all federal, state, and local laws including, but not limited to, the possession and/or public consumption of alcohol and the possession and/or use of illegal substances.
Students are permitted to bring food into the building and consume it prior to the start of class. No food is permitted inside the classroom. Students may utilize the TMA Kitchen area.
Grading Policy
Grades will be based on midterm exams, final exams, and any quizzes or homework the instructor assigns. A passing grade is 70% or higher. Midterm and final grades are sent to employers.
Grading Scale
100 - 90 A
89 - 80 B
79 - 70 C
69 and below: Failing
Grade Weighing
5% Attendance
15% Class Participation
25% Homework / Assignments (in-class or at home)
25% Quizzes/Tests
30% Final
Late Work Policy
Staying on top of your class work is essential to your success. If you turn in work after the due date, your assignment’s final grade will be deducted by 10% for each day late. No work will be accepted ten days after the deadline resulting in a 0%. For example one day late results in a 10% deduction, two days late results in 20% deduction, etc.
Academic Integrity Policy
Students must complete their graded work independently to satisfactorily complete this course. It is welcomed and encouraged that they ask for help from journeypersons, coworkers, or peers to understand course concepts better. However, cheating, forgery, or academic dishonesty of any kind will not be tolerated. TMA defines academic dishonesty as turning in someone else’s work and claiming it as your own. Those who are found to be engaged in academic dishonesty will receive a “0” on their assignment, and their member company will be called.
Course Information
Year 1The first-year course, which is the cornerstone of the Apprentice Program, covers math, print reading, basics of machine tool technology, and includes hands-on training. TMA requires all Year 1 students to declare which track they will continue onto in Year 2 and 3.
Course 101/Industrial Math II | 42 hours: 14 weekly sessions
CONTENT: The primary objective of this course is to present mathematical concepts and practical application of concepts that are generally required by skilled employees in the machine trades. Course content includes application of mathematical operations of fractions, decimals, whole numbers and mixed numbers. Ratio and proportion, linear measurement, and fundamentals of algebra are also covered in relation to their use in industry. Numerous problem-solving sessions are formatted to industry settings and oriented toward trigonometric readiness.
Course 102/Industrial Print Reading/GD&T | 33 hours: 11 weekly sessions
CONTENT: An entry-level course in print reading for the beginning apprentice. A study of print reading including orthographic theory, line convention, pictorial representation, types of drawings, sections, auxiliaries, line convention, and introduction to GD&T.
Course 103/Industrial Math III | 42 hours: 14 weekly sessions
CONTENT: A continuation of industrial mathematics with emphasis on right angle trigonometry, solid geometry, oblique triangles, and applied math for inspection, setup, and practical problem-solving.
Course 104/Machine Tool Theory & Machine Shop Lab | 33 hours : 11 weekly sessions
CONTENT: An entry-level course in the study, use, and applications of machining equipment relative to precision machining, including Introduction to CNC. This course includes the study of basic safety, materials, process planning, process control, layout, measurement, carbide tooling, heat treatment, metal composition and classification, preventative maintenance, and math applications related to machining and metal cutting mechanics.
Course 105/Intro to CAD | 18 hours : 6 weekly sessions
CONTENT: This course will focus on learning the CAD User Interface, Sketching, and introduction to Modeling. In addition to creating Sketches, they will learn Smart Dimensioning, Trimming, Filleting, and Extruding. The course will also cover File Management The software used in this class will be Solidworks.
Year 2 Students will continue onto one of the following three tracks during Year 2
Course 201/Basic Tool & Die | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice tool and die maker. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as process planning, process control, heat treatment, and identification of steels. Students will learn tool and die making basics including shop safety, types of dies, principles of blanking/piercing dies, bending, screw and dowel holes, die life, die-block construction, and stock material utilization and strip layouts. Additional content includes die components (punches, pilots, strippers and stock guides, shedders and knockouts, nest gages, pushers, die stops and die sets) and basic die making applications.
Course 202/Basic Mold Making | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice mold maker. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as the basics of mold making, project planning, types of molds, mold components, and basic design. Students will learn about mold making processes including heat treating, polishing, welding, hole popping, laser engraving and programming, heating and cooling, gates and runners, and thermoforming. Additional content includes methods of mold machining.
Course 203/Basic CNC Programming | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This second year course is for the apprentice CNC programmer. It continues the study of blueprint reading and shop math, as well as process planning, statistical process control, heat treatment, and metallurgy. Students will learn CNC machining basics including shop safety, lathe/mill setup and operation, workholding, tool assembly, and how to set work and tool offsets. Additional content includes lathe and mill operations, surface grinding operations, machinability of materials, an introduction to continuous improvement and 5S, and more.
Year 3 Students will build on their skills learned from Year 2 during Year 3.
Course 301/Advanced Tool & Die | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their tool and die apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic Tool & Die, and takes a more comprehensive look at different types of dies and how they are constructed. More complex compound and progressive dies are thoroughly examined, focusing on their components, use, and construction.
Course 302/Advanced Mold Making | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their mold making apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic Mold Making, and will examine more complex concepts related to mold design and construction.
Course 303/ Advanced CNC Programming | 168 hours: 56 sessions
CONTENT: This class is for students entering the third year of their CNC programming apprenticeship training. It is a continuation of Basic CNC Programming, and covers more complex methods of CNC programming and machining.
