Build a Career in Craftsmanship: Tool & Die Certificate

Skills That Pay Off

Step into one of manufacturing’s most respected skilled trades with hands-on training that builds true craftsmanship. The Tool & Die Certificate program takes you from blueprint reading and precision measurement to advanced machining, materials knowledge, and die design. You’ll work with real equipment, learn how metals behave under stress, understand the science behind heat treatment, and explore the engineering behind forming and cutting dies. Each course adds a new layer of expertise, preparing you to contribute to toolrooms, stamping operations, maintenance teams, and advanced manufacturing environments where accuracy and problem solving drive success.

This course provides the understanding and interpretation of a variety of mechanical and electrical blueprints. Emphasis is placed on reading and interpreting blueprints found in a manufacturing environment. Student will gain the ability to recognize and identify symbols and specifications common to modern industrial blueprints. Topics include: lines and symbols, views, material, form and position, title blocks, sketching, features, and sections.

Prerequisite: Industrial Blueprint Reading

This course covers use of calipers, micrometers, English and metric gauges and other measuring instruments within a manufacturing environment. Topics include: English vs. metric, calibration of instruments, importance of repeatability, hands-on measurement of piece work, and instrument inspection and care.

Prerequisite: Basic Gauges & Measurement

A basic course in machining theory and an introduction to the use of common tools and techniques in manufacturing. Topics introduced include: turning, boring, drilling, milling, grinding, use of hand tools, machine setup, preventative maintenance, efficient operation of tools, and use of the Machinery Handbook.

Prerequisite: Machining Theory & Methods

This course covers the basics of precision machining operations utilizing a variety of machine tools and related equipment. Topics include: operation and use of drill presses, lathes, power saws, grinders, vertical and horizontal milling machines, and other basic machine tools; bench work (use of hand and power hack saws, deburring, shearing, filing, polishing, use of hand taps, and cutting threads with a die); safety; and good housekeeping.

This course covers the structure, processing, and thermal/mechanical properties of metals, plastics/polymers and ceramics materials. Topics include: classification and properties of metals, synthesis and structure of polymers, chemical and heat treatment principles, corrosion avoidance, and selection of materials for particular applications.

This course covers techniques of die design theory and practice. Students will study forming and cutting of dies and their component parts, such as die blocks, strippers, stock guides, shredders, knockouts, nest gages, pushers, die stops, strip layout die sets, stock utilization and engineering formulas.

If you’d like to take the next step toward earning your Tool & Die Certificate, we’re here to help. For more details or to connect with our team, contact a JAMA Program Director at (517) 782-8268 or jama@mijama.org

Don’t Wait – Tool & Die Careers are in Demand Now!

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
The Academy for Manufacturing Careers admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, ancestry, religious creed, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, or gender expression to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, ancestry, religious creed, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, or gender expression in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and any other school-administered programs.

Tool & Die Certificate JAMA
Tool & Die Certificate

Why This Training?

  • Hands-On Skills – Train on real machining, measurement, materials, and die design processes.
  • Industry Ready – Learn the exact tools, methods, and techniques toolrooms and stamping operations rely on every day.
  • Career Focused – Build the precision skills that lead to high-demand tool & die, machining, and maintenance roles.

You’ve Come to the Right Place