Tool and Die Maker with VR Training (VR Headset v3 Included)

Tool and die makers play an integral role in the manufacturing process. They are skilled artisans who enter their careers after a combination of education and hands-on training and quickly become indispensable to their employers in the manufacturing industry. This online tool and die maker course is the perfect way to get started in your new career online with the added bonus of using virtual reality (VR) technology to hone your skills.

This course provides an intensive overview of the fundamentals necessary for success in this trade. During your tool and die training, you will learn workholding, math, inspection, safety, machining, materials, quality, and grinding. Course content also includes 10 labs/simulations where you will leverage your provided Meta Quest 3 headset to master your skills in simulated, real-world scenarios. Upon completion of the course, you will have obtained the required knowledge and proven competency for a successful career as a tool and die worker.

What you will learn

• Production floor safety
• CNC controls and programming
• Metallurgy
• Machining and grinding processes
• Inspection methods
• Six Sigma, 5S, Lean, and TPM
• Workholding principles

How you will benefit

• Here is an overview of the Benefits of Virtual Reality to get a better understanding of the value this tool and die worker course provides
• Prepare for a career as a tool and die maker, die maker, tool and die machinist, or toolmaker
• Gain confidence in your ability to perform your job

• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

1. Workholding
   1. Intro to Workholding 104
   2. Locating Devices 107
   3. Clamping Basics 108
   4. Chucks, Collets, and Vises 110
   5. Drill Bushing Selection 230
2. Math
   1. Math Fundamentals 101
   2. Math: Fractions and Decimals 111
   3. Blueprint Reading 131
   4. Algebra Fundamentals 141
   5. Geometry: Lines and Angles 151
   6. Geometry: Triangles 161
   7. Geometry: Circles and Polygons 171
   8. Trigonometry: The Pythagorean Theorem 201
   9. Trigonometry: Sine, Cosine, Tangent 211
   10. Statistics 231
3. Inspection
   1. Basic Measurement 101
   2. Introduction to GD&T 301
   3. Major Rules of GD&T 311
   4. Inspecting a Prismatic Part 321
   5. Inspecting a Cylindrical Part 331
4. Metal Cutting
   1. Cutting Processes 111
   2. Safety for Metal Cutting 101
   3. Overview of Machine Tools 121
   4. Basic Cutting Theory 201
   5. Band Saw Operation 211
   6. Introduction to Metal Cutting Fluids 221
   7. Metal Cutting Fluid Safety 231
   8. Toolholders for Turning 260
   9. Speed and Feed for the Lathe 301
   10. Speed and Feed for the Mill 311
   11. Machining Titanium Alloys 325
   12. Lathe Tool Geometry 351
   13. Mill Tool Geometry 361
   14. Drill Tool Geometry 371
   15. Intro to EDM 100
5. Machining
   1. Manual Mill Basics 201
   2. Engine Lathe Basics 211
   3. Manual Mill Setup 221
   4. Overview of Engine Lathe Setup 205
   5. Benchwork and Layout Operations 241
   6. Manual Mill Operation 251
   7. Engine Lathe Operation 225
   8. Holemaking on the Manual Mill 271
   9. Threading on the Engine Lathe 235
   10. Taper Turning on the Engine Lathe 240
   11. Introduction to CNC Machines 201
   12. Basics of the CNC Lathe 211
   13. Basics of the CNC Mill 212
   14. Coordinates for the CNC Lathe 221
   15. Coordinates for the CNC Mill 222
   16. CNC Specs for the Mill 220
   17. CNC Specs for the Lathe 225
   18. Basics of G Code Programming 231
   19. Introduction to CAD and CAM for Machining 241
   20. Control Panel Functions for the CNC Lathe 251
   21. Control Panel Functions for the CNC Mill 252
   22. Creating a CNC Turning Program 301
   23. Creating a CNC Milling Program 302
   24. Calculations for Programming the Mill 312
   25. Turning Calculations 285
   26. Canned Cycles for the Lathe 321
   27. AA.Canned Cycles for the Mill 322
   28. BB.Haas Mill: Control Panel Overview 250
   29. Haas Lathe: Control Panel Overview 255
   30. Haas Mill: First Part Runs 320
   31. EE.Haas Lathe: First Part Runs 325
   32. Fanuc Mill: Control Panel Overview 250
   33. Fanuc Lathe: Control Panel Overview 255
   34. Fanuc Mill: First Part Runs 320
   35. Fanuc Lathe: First Part Runs 325
   36. Mazak Mill: Control Panel Overview 250
   37. KK.Mazak Lathe: Control Panel Overview 255
   38. Creating an EIA/ISO Program for the Mazak Mill 286
   39. Creating an EIA/ISO Program for the Mazak Lathe 287
   40. Creating a Mazatrol Program for the Mill 288
   41. Creating a Mazatrol Program for the Lathe 289
   42. PP.Mazak Mill: First Part Runs 320
   43. Mazak Lathe: First Part Runs 325
6. Safety
   1. Intro to OSHA 101
   2. Personal Protective Equipment 111
   3. Noise Reduction and Hearing Conservation 121
   4. Respiratory Safety 131
   5. Lockout/Tagout Procedures 141
   6. SDS and Hazard Communication 151
   7. Bloodborne Pathogens 161
   8. Walking and Working Surfaces 171
   9. Fire Safety and Prevention 181
   10. Flammable/Combustible Liquids 191
   11. Ergonomics 102
   12. Hand and Power Tool Safety 201
   13. Safety for Lifting Devices 211
   14. Powered Industrial Truck Safety 221
   15. Confined Spaces 231
   16. Environmental Safety Hazards 241
   17. Machine Guarding 140
7. Materials
   1. Introduction to Physical Properties 101
   2. Introduction to Mechanical Properties 111
   3. Introduction to Metals 121
   4. Metal Manufacturing 140
   5. Classification of Steel 201
   6. Essentials of Heat Treatment of Steel 211
   7. Hardness Testing 221
   8. Ferrous Metals 231
   9. Nonferrous Metals 241
   10. Exotic Alloys 301
8. Quality and Manufacturing Management
   1. Lean Manufacturing Overview 101
   2. Essentials of Leadership 110
   3. Essentials of Communication 120
   4. ISO 9001: 2015 Review 122
   5. Continuous Process Improvement: Managing Flow 124
   6. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part I 124
   7. Continuous Process Improvement: Identifying and Eliminating Waste 125
   8. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part II 125
   9. Managing Performance: Best Practices 130
   10. Approaches to Maintenance 131
   11. Managing Performance: Corrective Actions 135
   12. Equipment/Tool Design and Development 137
   13. Total Productive Maintenance 141
   14. Conflict Resolution Principles 150
   15. 5S Overview 151
   16. Conflict Resolution for Different Groups 155
   17. Team Leadership 160
   18. Intro to Six Sigma 171
   19. Quality and Customer Service 175
   20. Manufacturing Management 180
   21. Troubleshooting 181
   22. Personal Effectiveness 190
   23. Conducting Kaizen Events 191
   24. Managing the Diverse Workplace 210
   25. SPC Overview 211
   26. Harassment and Discrimination 215
   27. AA.Performance Management and the Law 230
   28. BB.Metrics for Lean 231
   29. Process Flow Charting 241
   30. Strategies for Setup Reduction 251
   31. EE.Management Tools: Problem Solving 270
   32. Management Tools: Product and Process Design 275
   33. Six Sigma Goals and Tools 310
9. Grinding
   1. Grinding Processes 201
   2. Grinding Safety 211
   3. Basic Grinding Theory 221
   4. Basics of the Surface Grinder 231
   5. Basics of the Cylindrical Grinder 232
   6. Basics of the Centerless Grinder 233
   7. Setup for the Surface Grinder 241
   8. Setup for the Cylindrical Grinder 242
   9. Setup for the Centerless Grinder 243
   10. Cylindrical Grinder Operation 252
   11. Centerless Grinder Operation 253
   12. Introduction to Grinding Fluids 261
   13. Grinding Variables 301
   14. Grinding Ferrous Metals 311
   15. Grinding Nonferrous Metals 321
   16. Grinding Wheel Materials 331
   17. Grinding Wheel Geometry 361
   18. Dressing and Truing 341
10. Stamping and Fabrication
    1. Die Components 130
    2. Die Cutting Variables 200
    3. Fabrication Process 232

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader .
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The following materials will be shipped to you approximately 10 business days after enrollment:

• Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit (headset, 2 controllers, case, and elite strap)

Material Fees are non-refundable upon registration.

Please note: Due to the high cost of the VR Headset Kit, it will not ship until 10 days after your start date.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to take this course. However, this course requires basic computer skills, including the ability to open and manage windows, navigate websites, and perform common online tasks such as downloading files, completing forms, and using web-based tools.

This is not an instructor facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email.

What is the average tool and die maker salary?

According to Salary.com, the average salary of a Tool and Die Maker is $62,830 as of April 2025.

What is a tool and die maker?

A tool and die maker is a skilled professional responsible for creating precision tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices that enable machines to manufacture a variety of products. This role is vital in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and electronics, where high-quality, precise components are essential.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

No.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What hardware is included?

The course includes the Meta Quest 3 headset with the two controllers, a carrying case, and the Elite Strap.

What should I do if I encounter technical difficulties while using VR?

If there are issues with the simulations, you can contact a student advisor and/or access the VR Help Center in the Learning Management System, which includes documentation, videos, and guides to assist with any issues.

If there are any issues with the hardware, you should contact Meta for assistance.

Do I need any prior experience with VR technology to take this course?

You do not need to have any prior experience with VR technology to take the course. However, if you do not have any experience with VR, we have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world.

Do I have to return the headset and accessories once I complete the course?

You do not have to return the headset and accessories once you complete the course, it is included in the cost of this program.

What are the benefits of using VR in learning?

Using virtual reality in learning has many benefits. Here is a link to a document summarizing the many benefits.

Will all the course content be delivered through VR, or just certain parts?

For this course, only the 10 labs/simulations are delivered through virtual reality. However, there is an option to complete the simulations on the web.

Can I participate without a VR headset, or is it mandatory?

You have the option of completing the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended)

What are the minimum system requirements for my computer/device to run the VR content?

• Mobile App: Android and Apple
• Network bandwidth: A broadband internet connection is required for larger images, audio, video, interactive components, and Virtual Labs.
• Screen resolution: The minimum screen resolution recommended is 1024 x 768 pixel
• Ram: 8 GB is the minimum recommendation
• Graphic Card: Not required but will increase performance of Virtual Labs

Is the VR experience compatible with all VR platforms (Oculus, HTC Vive, etc.)?

This particular VR experience is only compatible with Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3.

How do I set up the VR equipment for the course? Will there be technical support?

Technical support is provided through the robust Hemp Center available in the Learning Management Systems.

What if I experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR? Are there accommodations for that?

If you experience motion sickness or discomfort while using VR, there is an option to complete the labs in a web browser (Chrome recommended).

Is there a specific platform or app I need to download to access the VR content?

To access the VR content, you will need to download a specific app from the Meta Quest store. The information for this will be provided upon enrollment.

How do I interact with instructors and other students in the VR environment?

There is no interaction with instructors and other students in the VR environment.

Is there a way to practice or familiarize myself with the VR setup before the course begins?

We have a Virtual Reality Navigator, a comprehensive guide with tutorials, games, glossary, and best practices in the virtual world that can help you get started.

What happens if my VR equipment breaks or malfunctions? Will I be penalized for missed coursework?

You have the option of completing the labs using virtual reality or web-based simulations. If the VR equipment breaks or malfunctions, you can complete the labs using the web-based versions.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."