CNCGuide.org is a blog that documents Bill’s transformation from a freelance web developer into a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining enthusiast.
Bill, the creator of CNCGuide.org, comes from a non-traditional background in web development, which makes his transition into CNC all the more intriguing. After years of freelancing as a front-end developer, Bill found himself grappling with the unpredictability of freelance income. This prompted him to seek out a more stable career path, and he soon discovered a growing interest in CNC and the broader manufacturing industry.
From Web Development to CNC: A Career Shift
Before founding CNCGuide.org, Bill spent several years working in web development, focusing on front-end development, which involved creating the visual and interactive elements of websites. His work ranged from handling multimedia content like videos and images to perfecting the overall aesthetic of the websites he built. Though he found success as a freelancer, the unpredictability of project-based work led Bill to re-evaluate his long-term goals.
”“I was doing freelance work, and as a freelancer, the income goes up and down. I wanted a shift.”
Bill
”I chose CNC because there’s programming involved. I believe it plays a bigger role in robotics and complements my technical background, Bill explained during the interview.
This instability prompted him to explore training programs in industries he felt would offer long-term growth and opportunities. After conducting thorough research, Bill stumbled upon JARC, an organization that provides specialized training programs for careers in manufacturing. The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) program stood out to Bill, especially because of its reliance on programming skills—a natural extension of his technical background in web development. His decision to pursue CNC was also influenced by the rise of automation and AI technologies, as he saw the potential for CNC machining to become an integral part of future industries.
The Birth of CNCGuide.org
Bill’s experience transitioning from web development to CNC machining led him to create CNCGuide.org, a platform dedicated to documenting his journey through JARC’s CNC program.
For Bill, the blog serves multiple purposes.
Not only is it a personal portfolio of his progress and learning, but it’s also a valuable resource for others who may be interested in CNC training but are unsure of what to expect.
“I created the site to showcase my experience and also help future students know what to expect from the CNC program,” Bill said. He views CNCGuide.org as a way to demystify the CNC training process, helping others see what kinds of challenges and opportunities they might encounter if they decide to follow a similar path. The blog provides insights into the day-to-day realities of the program, from studying blueprints to mastering complex machinery.
Bill is committed to regularly updating CNCGuide.org with new content, reflecting on each week’s lessons and challenges. He hopes that his blog will not only inspire others to pursue careers in CNC but also serve as a helpful reference for current students who might be struggling with the material.
CNCGuide.org’s Future and Bill’s Vision
Looking ahead, Bill plans to keep CNCGuide.org alive and thriving even after he completes his CNC training. His goal is to expand the site’s offerings, providing more in-depth articles and resources on CNC, reviews of routers and machines, and possibly even sponsorships. “The plan is to create more articles and have more information and resources,” Bill said. He envisions the site becoming a valuable resource not just for students but also for professionals and hobbyists interested in CNC machining.
In addition to sharing his own experiences, Bill hopes to attend industry events like the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) and document those as well. These kinds of events will allow him to showcase the latest innovations in the CNC world and further enhance his blog’s appeal to a wider audience. “It’ll be a great way to showcase the conference and what companies are there,” he said.
Documenting Challenges and Achievements
One of the most rewarding aspects of maintaining CNCGuide.org, Bill noted, is the way it forces him to recall and consolidate what he’s learned. “The benefit is that it makes you remember and recall the stuff you learn in the exercises, in the blueprints, in the tools,” Bill explained. Writing about his experiences helps him solidify his knowledge and ensures that he doesn’t forget the technical details that are crucial in CNC machining.
He shared one particularly challenging experience in his training—the NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) blueprint exercise. “It took me about a week and a half to finish, but I completed it,” Bill said. The exercise required him to apply everything he had learned in the program up to that point, from blueprint reading to working with wax and metal blocks. This experience was not only a milestone in his training but also became a key feature on his blog, serving as an example of the level of dedication and skill required in CNC machining.
A Message for Future CNC Students
Bill’s advice to future students considering a career in CNC is simple: take your time and be patient. “Just do it, learn at your own pace, and write down what’s important,” Bill urged. He emphasized the importance of persistence, noting that mastering CNC takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. His own journey from web developer to CNC machinist-in-training is proof of that.
Through CNCGuide.org, Bill is not only shaping his own career but also helping others navigate the often complex and intimidating world of CNC machining. His blog is a testament to the power of perseverance and the value of sharing knowledge with others. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, CNCGuide.org offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in the field of CNC. Be sure to check out Bill’s website, CNCGuide.org, to follow his journey and gain firsthand advice on CNC training and beyond.
Huge thanks to our incredible partners at LISC and Wells Fargo for their invaluable support of our CMP Program and essential support services! Your partnership empowers us to make a lasting impact in our community.
Thanks for sharing your story, Bill! Your blog is great – looking forward to the next steps in your journey!
I’m looking forward to reading your blog, good luck in all that you do!