Before you consider enrolling in machinist courses, it helps to decide what type of machining you want to get into, as well as the general requirements for the jobs you want to pursue. Take a look at job descriptions on the Internet and take note of the required qualifications. The machinist courses you enroll in should cover the topics outlined in the job descriptions. Pay special attention to any certificates required for employment, as you will need to be certified to obtain most machinist jobs. Take a look at the local community college or technical college to get a sense of what courses are offered.
If you are limited by the proximity of educational institutions, be sure to research the different options in your area and choose the school that is most affordable and convenient for you. The institution should be accredited, and you should avoid non-accredited institutions if you can, since employers tend to value educations from accredited institutions. You will be more likely to be hired if you attend an institution that has undergone accreditation. The school should offer the machinist courses you need to enter the field you have chosen; be sure each course will help you take steps closer to all appropriate certifications.
Whenever possible, visit the school's campus to take a tour of the facilities. Take note of the machinery available to students taking machinist courses, and make sure the machines are up to date and functional. CNC, or computer numeric control, machines should be present on site, and courses should be designed to teach you how to use them. Computer-aided drafting courses should also be offered, as some machinist positions will require you to work with such programs. Above all, make sure the machinist courses are taught by experienced professionals who have worked extensively in the field.
You may want to consider taking coursework besides machinist courses as well. Math skills, for example, will be necessary to be successful in most machinist jobs, so you may want to take some basic math classes such as geometry or even trigonometry. Communication skills will also be necessary to be successful in the field, so you may want to enroll in basic English, public speaking, or writing classes if your communication skills are weak. Be prepared for a job by padding your resumé with relevant education and experience that will encourage employers to hire you.