From Trainee to CNC Programmer: Meet Hasheem
My name is Hasheem and I work at Oadby Plastics as a CNC Router Programmer/Setter/Operator at the Leicester Branch. I joined the Company 4 years ago as a Production Trainee and I have been in my current role for approximately 2 years. Before joining Oadby Plastics I previously worked within Logistics as a stock controller and also as a CCTV Controller. I was attracted to this role because I have always been passionate and strongly interested in a career within engineering and manufacturing. I was attracted to Oadby Plastics because of its well-established reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent plastics suppliers and machinists with a nationwide presence.
My day-to-day role
As a CNC Programmer/Setter/Operator my role and responsibilities include working within a team to produce high quality components to exact specifications. Taking a CAD model and turning it into a finished, accurately machined component. I am responsible for programming, creating and modifying CNC programs using CAM software such as Alpacam. Setting and operating CNC machinery, ensuring accuracy, efficiency and a strong focus on safety and quality throughout the process.
My typical day involves reading the handover from the previous shift, checking the production schedule and jobs due dates, in-order to priorities which jobs I should machine first. I then review drawings, dimensions and material requirements. I then start programming this involves studying the engineering drawing and creating toolpaths, simulate the program to check for errors. I then set the CNC machine which involves calibrating the machine, installing the required tools, setting tool lengths, setting the machine datum, loading the correct material, loading the program into the machine. After setting I then operate the machine. I machine a First-off component, this is an important part of the job. I measure critical dimensions and make adjustments if necessary. I then get the first-off approved by Quality Control, once everything is correct I start production.
I have been involved in machining components for Expert Aviation. Each component produced has to be of the highest standards of quality and reliability. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we done.
Every role is important at Oadby Plastics
As a CNC Programmer/Setter/Operator at Oadby Plastics we work as one team to ensure that every customer order machined is of the highest standard of quality and reliability. We always maintain a high level of efficiency to deliver customer service excellence.
My role has a direct impact on customer satisfaction. My work affects the quality, accuracy, delivery time and reliability of the products the customer receives. Correct programming, setting and machining ensures parts meet the customer’s drawings and specifications. Being consistent by producing the same quality part repeatedly gives the customer confidence in the company.
What are the key skills for my role?
The key skills required for my role include technical programming, machining knowledge, problem solving, quality control and machine operation. You have to be able to create and edit CNC programs, be able to optimise programs for cycle time and quality. Be able to use CAD/CAM software such as Alphacam. Be able to set CNC machines and be able to interpret engineering drawings.
In the changing world of technology there is always something new to learn and you must have the determination and willingness to always learn new skills.
What’s next?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is transforming raw materials into complex tangible products. I enjoy the creative, technical and problem solving aspects of the role.
I joined the company 4 years ago as a Production Training and I had the opportunity to work in all production departments. This has been beneficial for me as I have gained a broader understanding of the business, I understand how different departments contribute to the final product. I have gained knowledge of different machines, processes, materials and quality requirements. I have been able to gain an understanding of how quality, accuracy, delivery times and production efficiency affect customer satisfaction.
What excites me about the future is how technology is making manufacturing more advanced, efficient and precise. The Company is currently investing in more advanced machinery, this is a great opportunity for the team to keep developing our skills, improve machining processes, reduce waste and cycle times and produce higher quality products for the customers which will lead to customer satisfaction and retention.
