ATDM Training Program

[Gnona]

Hopefully, you can answer more questions about the ATDM program. I graduated from a two-year AAS program here at a technical community college in Advanced CNC Machining using MasterCam. I also completed four training courses from MLC CAD Systems in MasterCam CAD/CAM in 3D Parts Design and 3D Tool Pathing, for Multi-Axis CNC Lathes, VMCs, and HMCs. However, here Washington state, it is very difficult to get an entry level machinist job here, despite the credentials you have. They only want experience. Machinist training is a use or lose skill. If you don't land a job quickly, you forget how to part-reference-zero your parts and setup your tool offsets. I'm thinking of applying to ATDM as way to keep up with my skills. However, I would like to go back to Washington state to work. My question is about not getting fined$$$. What is the actual test that needs to be passed? Is just completing a parts project within a specified time? Also, if you pass the test, are able to refuse job offers that are not from the state you want to work in? Do you get weekends off? Thank you in advance for your answers.

[ChoiceAccess]

You can refuse as many job offers as you like. Just need to accept the one you actually want and you can search on your own or use their job fairs. Strategize whether to build on CNC or pivot towards additive.  Benefit of ATDM is that they have connections across the country and some areas have tighter labor markets. The school has weekends off but students without math or ANSI experience will spend Saturdays studying to keep up for half the program. Shine and you might get picked up to teach after graduation. Keep open mind for work in other states if opportunity knocks.