Toolmaker with VR Training (VR Headset v3 Included)

Manufacturers are looking for highly skilled workers to create increasingly complex and important products. If you want a stable career in an industry that needs you, consider becoming a toolmaker. This online toolmaker training will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to prove competency and begin your new career quickly. As you progress through your coursework, you will use virtual reality (VR) technology to reinforce your learning and complete 10 labs/simulations. Upon enrollment, you will be given your very own Meta Quest 3 VR Headset Kit (headset, 2 controllers, case, and Elite Strap).

By the end of this toolmaking course, you will have an intensive overview of the skills necessary for toolmaking, including workholding, math, inspection, safety, machining, materials, quality, grinding, and stamping.

What you will learn

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

How you will benefit

• Explore our Benefits of Virtual Reality flyer to get a better understanding of the value this manufacturing training can offer
• Prepare for a career as a toolmaker, tool and die maker, or tool and die machinist
• Gain the skills you need to confidently 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. Abrasives
   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. Surface Grinder Operation 251
   11. Cylindrical Grinder Operation 252
   12. Centerless Grinder Operation 253
   13. Introduction to Grinding Fluids 261
   14. Grinding Variables 301
   15. Grinding Nonferrous Metals 311
   16. Grinding Nonferrous Materials 321
   17. Grinding Wheel Materials 331
   18. Dressing and Truing 341
   19. Grinding Wheel Geometry 361
2. CNC
   1. Introduction to CNC Machines 201
   2. Basics of CNC Lathe 211
   3. Basics of CNC Mill 212
   4. CNC Specs for the Mill 220
   5. Coordinates for the CNC Lathe 221
   6. Coordinates for the CNC Mill 222
   7. CNC Specs for the Lathe 225
   8. Basics of G Code Programming 231
   9. Introduction to CAD and CAM for Machining 241
   10. Control Panel Functions for the CNC Lathe 251
   11. Control Panel Functions for the CNC Mill 252
   12. Creating a CNC Turning Program 301
   13. Creating a CNC Milling Program 302
   14. Calculations for Programming the Lathe 311
   15. Calculations for Programming the Mill 312
   16. Canned Cycles for the Lathe 321
   17. Canned Cycles for the Mill 322
3. CNC Controls: Fanuc
   1. Fanuc Mill: Control Panel Overview 250
   2. Fanuc Lathe: Control Panel Overview 255
   3. Fanuc Mill: First Part Runs 320
   4. Fanuc Lathe: First Part Runs 325
4. CNC Controls: Haas
   1. Haas Mill: Classic Control Panel Overview 250
   2. Haas Lathe Classic Control Panel Overview 256
   3. Haas Mill Classic Controls: First Part Runs 320
   4. Haas Lathe Classic Controls: First Part Runs 325
5. CNC Controls: Mazak
   1. Mazak Mill: Control Panel Overview 250
   2. Mazak Lathe: Control Panel Overview 255
   3. Creating an EIA/ISO Program for the Mazak Mill 286
   4. Creating an EIA/ISO Program for the Mazak Lathe 287
   5. Creating a Mazatrol Program for the Mill 288
   6. Creating a Mazatrol Program for the Lathe 289
   7. Mazak Mill: First Part Runs 320
   8. Mazak Lathe: First Part Runs 325
6. Inspection
   1. Basic Measurement 101
   2. Blueprint Reading 131
   3. Introduction to GD&T 301
   4. Major Rules GD&T 311
   5. Inspecting a Prismatic Part 321
   6. Inspecting a Cylindrical Part 331
7. Lean
   1. Lean Manufacturing Overview 101
   2. Continuous Process Improvement: Managing Flow 124
   3. Continuous Process Improvement: Identifying and Eliminating Waste 125
   4. Total Productive Maintenance 141
   5. 5S Overview 151
   6. Intro to Six Sigma 171
   7. Troubleshooting 181
   8. Conducting Kaizen Events 191
   9. SPC Overview 211
   10. Metrics for Lean 231
   11. Process Flow Charting 241
   12. Strategies for Setup Reduction 251
   13. Management Tools: Problem Solving 270
   14. Management Tools: Product and Process Design 275
   15. Six Sigma Goals and Tools 310
8. Manual Machining
   1. Manual Mill Basics 201
   2. Engine Lathe Basics 211
   3. Manual Mill Setup 221
   4. Engine Lathe Setup 231
   5. Benchwork and Layout Operations 241
   6. Manual Mill Operation 251
   7. Engine Lathe Operation 261
   8. Holemaking on the Manual Mill 271
   9. Threading on the Engine Lathe 301
   10. Taper Turning on the Engine Lathe 311
9. Materials
   1. Introduction to Physical Properties 101
   2. Introduction to Mechanical Properties 111
   3. Introduction to Metals 121
   4. Introduction to Metal Manufacturing 180
   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
10. Metal Cutting
    1. Intro to EDM 100
    2. Safety for Metal Cutting 101
    3. Cutting Processes 111
    4. Overview of Machine Tools 121
    5. Basic Cutting Theory 201
    6. Band Saw Operation 211
    7. Introduction to Metal Cutting Fluids 221
    8. Metal Cutting Fluid Safety 231
    9. Toolholders for Turning 260
    10. Speed and Feed for the Lathe 301
    11. Speed and Feed for the Mill 311
    12. Machining Titanium Alloys 325
    13. Lathe Tool Geometry 351
    14. Mill Tool Geometry 361
    15. Drill Tool Geometry 371
11. Quality
    1. ISO 9001:2015 Review 122
    2. Approaches to Maintenance 131
    3. Equipment/Tool Design and Development 137
    4. Customer-Focused Quality 155
12. Safety
    1. Introduction to OSHA 101
    2. Ergonomics 102
    3. Personal Protective Equipment 111
    4. Noise Reduction and Hearing Conservation 121
    5. Respiratory Safety 131
    6. Lockout/Tagout Procedures 141
    7. SDS and Hazard Communication 151
    8. Bloodborne Pathogens 161
    9. Walking and Working Surfaces 171
    10. Fire Safety and Prevention 181
    11. Flammable/Combustible Liquids 191
    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 271
13. Shop Essentials (Applied Mathematics)
    1. Math Fundamentals 101
    2. Math: Fractions and Decimals 111
    3. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part I 124
    4. Manufacturing Process Applications: Part II 125
    5. Algebra Fundamentals 141
    6. Geometry: Lines and Angles 151
    7. Geometry: Triangles 161
    8. Geometry: Circles and Polygons 171
    9. Trigonometry: The Pythagorean Theorem 201
    10. Trigonometry: Sine, Cosine, Tangent 211
    11. Statistics 231
14. Stamping
    1. Die Components 130
    2. Die Cutting Variables 200
15. Supervisor Essentials
    1. Essentials of Leadership 100
    2. Managing Performance: Best Practices 130
    3. Managing Performance: Corrective Actions 135
    4. Conflict Resolution Principles 150
    5. Conflict Resolution for Different Groups 155
    6. Team Leadership 160
    7. Manufacturing Management 180
    8. Personal Effectiveness 190
    9. Managing the Diverse Workplace 210
    10. Harassment and Discrimination 215
    11. Performance Management and the Law 230
16. Welding
    1. Fabrication Process 232
17. Workforce Essentials
    1. Essentials of Communication 115
18. Workholding
    1. Introduction to Workholding 101
    2. Locating Devices 121
    3. Clamping Basics 131
    4. Chucks, Collets, and Vises 141
    5. Drill Bushing Selection 230

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 toolmaker salary?

According to Salary.com, the average salary for a toolmaker in the United States is $71,630 as of May 1, 2025.

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."