NTTF’s Post Diploma in Tool Design for Career Growth

“The Tool Design program equips students with hands-on experience in designing tools for shaping metal and plastic components, preparing them for advanced careers in tool design and manufacturing.”

To learn more about Post Diploma in Tool Design at NTTF, eligibility criteria, advantages of joining the program, career opportunities and more, we spoke with Mr. Rakesh B Junnur, Head of PD Program in Tool Design, Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF).

Here are some of the highlights from the interview. To watch the full video, please visit our YouTube channel.

Q. Could you please share some information about the Post Diploma in Tool Design program offered at NTTF?

A. For over 20 years, we at NTTF have been offering Post Diploma courses across various locations. Specifically, our Post Diploma in Tool Design is available at centers in Thalassery, Kerala; Vellore and Chennai, Tamil Nadu; Pune, Maharashtra; Hyderabad and Gannavaram, Andhra Pradesh; and Bangalore’s Electronic City in Karnataka. This one-year intensive course is offered at all these locations.

Q. Could you briefly explain what the Post Diploma in Tool Design program covers and what students can expect to gain from it?

A. The Tool Design program is ideal for individuals with a technical background, particularly those holding a 3-year diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Automobile Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or similar fields. Those with a diploma in Tool Engineering or relevant manufacturing disciplines will find the program especially suitable. Additionally, individuals interested in automotive or electronics manufacturing, and those keen on developing analytical and problem-solving skills in precision manufacturing, will benefit greatly.

In this course, students will delve into areas such as:

• Press Tool Design: Designing tools for shaping sheet metal components like car bodies.
• Mold Design: Designing molds for plastic parts, such as automotive bumpers and everyday items like pens.
• Jig and Fixture Design: Developing holding devices crucial for manufacturing processes.
• Precision Measurement Techniques: Utilizing gauges for accurate measurement and ensuring precision in manufacturing.
• Engineering Drawing and GD&T: Focus on geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure design accuracy.
• Material Selection: Understanding and selecting appropriate materials for tool-making in the manufacturing industry.
• Quality Control Methodologies: Learning inspection methodologies and quality control processes for precision engineering.

Students will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software, including:

• CAD (Computer-Aided Design): AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Siemens NX
• CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing): Mastercam

This comprehensive training ensures they are well-prepared for challenges in tool design and manufacturing.

Q. What can students expect from this program, and what are the key benefits upon completion?

A. Students can expect the following benefits:

• Hands-On Training: Practical exposure through extensive hands-on training in manufacturing processes and software applications (CAD and CAM).
• Process Planning: Learning about the entire manufacturing process, including process planning and execution.
• Industrial Expertise: Opportunities to engage with industry experts through industrial visits and tech talks, including insights from our extensive alumni network.
• Practical Assignments: Practical assignments that allow students to design and develop tools, enhancing their practical skills.

The program emphasizes practical learning with 65% of the focus on hands-on experience and 35% on theoretical knowledge. Field visits to manufacturing units and assembly lines provide real-world experience and understanding of industry practices.

Also read: Get Industry-Ready with Technical Training Program at NTTF

Q. What unique aspects or key features set this program apart from others?

A. One standout feature of this program is its focus on designing press tools. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how sheet metal is shaped, such as in car body design, by learning about:

• Strip Layout Design: Understanding the sequence and material selection required to achieve specific shapes and sizes.
• Flow Analysis and Drafting: Key elements in tool design and manufacturing.
• Precision Gauging: Learning about precision measurements and quality control in manufacturing.
• Problem Solving and Innovation: Essential skills for designers, including creative problem-solving and process optimization.

These elements make the program unique and highly relevant for those interested in advanced design and manufacturing techniques.

Q. What career opportunities and benefits can students expect upon completing this program?

A. Graduates of this program can explore various career paths including:

• Tool Design and Manufacturing: Positions in automotive, aerospace, electronics, consumer goods, and heavy machinery industries.
• CAD/CAM Engineering: Roles involving toolpath generation for CNC machines and tool manufacturing companies.
• Research and Development: Opportunities in R&D, focusing on design and innovation within the industry.
• Entrepreneurship: Potential to start and manage their own design centers.
• Technical Sales: Roles in technical sales related to tool manufacturing and precision components.

Notable employers include ITW, Precision, Do The Transmission, and Saab Engineering. Graduates have found positions in prominent companies like ITW in Pune, Saab Engineering, and Unometa.

Q. What advice would you give to prospective students interested in this program?

A. I encourage the new generation, who are digital natives and highly creative, to embrace this opportunity for comprehensive learning and holistic training. We look forward to welcoming you to our program.