Careers in Machine Trades

TO BUILD EVERYTHING FROM ROBOTS to aircraft, factories all over the world depend on the skilled work of machinists and tool and die makers. Starting with sketches, blueprints, or computer-aided design (CAD) files, machinists set up the machines that make parts for all kinds of products. They then take large pieces of materials like steel, aluminum, plastic, and other materials and feed them into the machines. Once the parts are made, they are filed to meet project specifications. The final step is to check for accuracy and give a final smoothing and polish. Machining work requires absolute accuracy. Measurements for precision metal pieces often need to be within 50 millionths of an inch. That is many times smaller than the diameter of a human hair! To be this precise, machinists need to use high-powered tools like lathes, grinders, lasers, millers, drill presses, and planers. These tools are equipped with extremely sharp cutters made of diamonds, borazon, tungsten carbide, or high speed steel. The cutting is the most hazardous phase of the process. It must be closely monitored while wearing safety goggles, protective clothing, and ear plugs. Many machinists run high-tech machines, such as computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines. A CNC machine is a high-precision tool that follows a coded, programmed instruction to make repeated, accurate movements without a manual operator. It is very efficient for producing a large number of a single part, like common steel bolts. For one-of-a-kind items or small batches of parts like specialized cylinders for aircraft engines, machinists usually use standard, non-computerized machines. Tool and die makers are also machinists, using similar skills for a different role in the production process. The main difference is machinists normally make a single part, while tool and die makers make many parts and often assemble the final product. Toolmakers usually make precision parts, instruments, and tools for cutting and forming metal. They also create measuring devices like gauges. Die makers make metal forms and molds for shaping metal, plastics, ceramics, and composite materials. Machinists, and tool and die makers, need to be skilled with a wide range of machines and techniques. There are no formal educational requirements and a college degree is not required. A high school diploma or equivalent is all that is necessary, along with math skills and problem-solving abilities. Training can be obtained in several different ways - on the job, in an apprenticeship, or at technical colleges. On-the-job training, with or without an apprenticeship, may take several years to complete. A formal training program from a technical college will only take one year, but without any prior experience some additional on-the-job training will be needed. Machinists and tool and die makers work in machine shops and factories. Schedules are generally full time, with some shifts on evenings and weekends to keep production running around the clock. Overtime is common. Machinists earn around $50,000 a year, while tool and die makers earn $70,000 on average. Many machinists like to work overtime because at time-and-a-half or double-time, it can quickly increase a paycheck. If you like making things, want to work with powerful machines, and have a sharp eye for accuracy, a career in machining could be what you are looking for. It has much to offer, including easy entry, job stability, a good work environment, the respect of others in the manufacturing sector, and the opportunity to learn a trade that can last a lifetime.