Abstract: A drilling system includes a stationary base table for supporting a work piece under process at a fixed position at a drilling spindle station. A drilling spindle carries and applies rotational force to a drilling tool. A compound overhead guiding system carries the spindle above the work piece under process. The overhead guiding system includes a Y drive system for moving the spindle along a Y axis in relation to the base table, and an X drive system for driving the spindle along an X axis. The guiding system has a lightweight laminated crossbeam structure for carrying the spindle and X axis drive system.