[Mschmeh144]

Also, don't try to change the rpm speeds on a drill press when it's not running. If you hear gear crunching gut wrenching sounds that means your doing it wrong.
The same is true for mills. With a mill, be careful with the draw bar, they can be broken if you don't know what your doing.
As for the lathe, I cannot offer advice, I have never had the chance to operate one and I most likely will not need to

Also, I have concluded that our mill is just straight up broken. I was making assumptions on things earlier, based on what my mentor has told me.

If you run the mill in CNC mode, make sure you have a dedicated computer that you use for it. That way you will not have to set up settings every time if you switch laptops. Also make sure your laptop can handle it, and connect properly.
Do a few test cuts with the mill to get the feel for it, and practice a few times before you use it for serious work.
As for bandsaws, depending on your model and setup, they're typically used to cut wood, thin sheets of metal, and lexan. If it comes with a vacuum, always use the vacuum. It makes cleanup easier.
Do not ever use compressed air to clean machines, the flying debris can injure people.
Tabletop grinding wheels shouldn't be used on aluminum unless designed for it. If it's not throwing sparks then there's something wrong.
Keep your shop clean, and your tools maintained properly, and you shouldn't have any problems.