CNC Policies

Owned by Courtney Morshed
Last updated: Sep 18, 2024
3 min read

In addition to the Build Lab's safety training, operators must first complete CNC Certification Course. Reserve your spot on Patron Portal for the in-person training sessions once complete with Canvas. A certified operator who also has a paid subscription must be present during milling operations unless the file has been approved to run unattended or overnight. Please plan well in advance as it can take time to coordinate schedules and complete the hands-on training.


Initial Certification

In order to become CNC trained and certified:

  1. Complete the Build Lab's safety training, mentioned above.
  2. Complete the CNC Certification Course on Canvas.
  3. Review all of the material in the SOA CNC Certification Course, and complete the practice quizzes at the end of each section.
    • You have as many chances as you'd like to attempt these practice quizzes – use them to your advantage as the final quiz pulls questions from the practice quizzes.
  4. Score a 100% on the "CNC Certification Final Exam"
    • You only have three attempts to receive a 100%. Take your time and read each question carefully. Incorrect answers will point you in the direction of material you still need to review.
    • If you require more than three attempts, email the Tech Desk to request an additional attempt.
  5. Only after scoring a 100% on the final exam, reserve your spot for the in-person training session by emailing trig@utexas.edu.
  6. Follow one of the tutorials we have created and prepare your files for cutting.
  7. Review the CNC | Router Materials page for approved stock.
  8. Bits broken by misuse of the router must be replaced by the user immediately and can be purchased at the Technology Lab service desk.
  9. Lab staff will assist you through the setup and cutting of your first project. If they are satisfied with your performance and progress, you will be added to the list of certified CNC users.
    • Once you are certified, the Technology Lab staff will continue to be available to consult on CNC projects as you develop.
  10. Comply with the CNC | Router Materials policies page.


Renewal Certification

CNC certifications require renewal each semester to be in compliance with the school's CNC policy.

In order to renew your CNC certification:

  1. Complete the CNC Certification Course on Canvas during a previous semester.
  2. Complete the in-person CNC training class during a previous semester.
  3. Complete the current semesters Renewal of Policies Acknowledgement module on Canvas.
  4. Email the Tech Desk to let us know you have completed the CNC Certification Renewal process on Canvas.


Training sessions are prioritized for Studio professors that have reached out to TRIG with their assignment plans and needs for the semester. Single-student trainings must also be scheduled by contacting TRIG and are dependent upon fulltime team member availability.