Mechanical Hand Skills

Mechanical Technology and Hand Skills (MTHSX)

Course Description

MTHSX is designed to develop trainees’ proficiency in the safe and effective use of hand tools through practical, hands-on shop exercises. Training also focuses on precision measurement, fastener selection and management, shaft alignment, and basic fabrication and repair techniques. Approximately 85% of the course is dedicated to hands-on workshop training, allowing trainees to apply mechanical skills in realistic, task-focused exercises.

Upon successful completion of this course, the trainee will be competent in:

Hand Tool Safety and Use

  • Safely and effectively use files, hacksaws, and hand drills.
  • Perform drilling and tapping operations to specified requirements.
  • Set up and operate a drill press in accordance with industry standards.
  • Execute keying and broaching procedures with accuracy and precision.
  • Properly use center punches and hammers for layout and fabrication tasks.
  • Perform project layout and marking using dividers, scribes, scales, and related layout tools.

Precision Measurement

  • Accurately read and use analog vernier calipers and micrometers to obtain precise measurements.
  • Utilize precision height gauges for measurement, inspection, and layout applications.
  • Operate dial indicators to perform dimensional verification tasks.
  • Use feeler gauges and precision straight edges to assess clearances, flatness, and alignment of components and assemblies.

Fastener Selection and Application

  • Identify and distinguish between American Standard (SAE) and Metric fasteners.
  • Select the appropriate drill sizes and taps for threaded fastener applications.
  • Evaluate fastener grades and specifications to determine proper selection for specific operational requirements.

Shaft Alignment Practices

  • Explain the importance of proper shaft alignment and its impact on equipment performance, reliability, and service life.
  • Differentiate between shaft alignment methods and understand the accuracy and limitations of various alignment techniques.
  • Perform basic shaft alignment using shims, straight edges, and feeler gauges to achieve acceptable alignment tolerances.

Basic Fabrication and Repair Techniques

  • Design and fabricate basic metal components using established measurement, layout, machining, and assembly techniques.
  • Apply previously acquired competencies to complete fabrication and repair tasks in accordance with specified requirements and industry best practices.
  • Inspect completed components to verify dimensional accuracy, functionality, and workmanship standards.

Course Schedule

Course Title (Code) Start Date End Date Seats Available?*
MTHSX 2/1/27 2/12/27 Yes
MTHSX 6/21/27 7/2/27 Yes
MTHSX 9/13/27 9/24/27 Yes
MTHSX 11/29/27 12/10/27 Yes
* NOTE: All classes are conducted at the Michelin – GDC, 1305 Perimeter Road, Greenville, SC 29605. Class hours are 7:00am – 3:30pm. In order to provide the optimum learning environment, classes are limited in size. Seating reservations are available on a first come, first served basis. Please CONTACT US for further details.

Note: By clicking on the Register Now button you will be redirected to the SCMEP website where all enrollment and payments take place.