ShopBot Tools is actually local to us and a sponsor. We love them!
Buy good bits. We use Onsrud typically and they have a chip load calculator spreadsheet thing that comes in the back of their catalogs that is awesome.
The other big thing is to hold down your work as much as possible. There are a few ways to do it:
- Screws in strategic locations... be wary of hitting them or bits go boom.
- Elmers glue... rub it on the aluminum sheet and also on a sheet of MDF. Let it dry for a few, and then stick them together. To remove, use paint thinner or mineral oil. A bit messy but parts come out great.
- 3M spray adhesive and it's basically the same as above.
- Vacuum table but not the best for aluminum (can still slide) and I'd still use one of the other methods above in conjunction with it.
Edit: Also, if you want real tips then post your questions on their forums or call them. Both are amazing and you'll get responses.