What Kind of Degree Do You Need to Be a Machinist?
Machinists make metal parts using metal machines, grinders and lathes. These workers understand the properties of metal and how tools effect metal materials. Using this knowledge, machinists select processes to make parts that meet manufacturing specifications. Most machinists learn the skills they need through a combination of classroom training and on-the-job training. Although not necessary for entry into the profession, some machinists take an associate's degree to learn basic trade skills.
Other People Are Reading
-
High School Preparation
-
Although machinists don't need four-year bachelor's degrees, earning respectable grades in high school and taking the right courses is important for aspiring apprentices and technical school students. Math is essential, especially trigonometry and geometry. If you have them at your high school, enroll in drafting, blueprint reading and metalworking courses. The website U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that advanced courses in calculus and physics are important for students interested in careers in aircraft assembly.
Find an Apprenticeship
-
The BLS recommends that high school students find registered apprenticeships to learn machinist skills right out of high school, but cautions that competition makes these positions hard to find. You'll need to have your high school diploma or GED in hand, and most employers will want to see proof that you have strong math skills. By completing a recognized apprenticeship program, you'll earn yourself a journeyworker title in about four years. Employers look for journeyworker certification when they want to hire a skilled and experienced machinist. Start your search by checking with local unions and labor groups. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, national Offices of Apprenticeships are in charge of apprenticeship programs in some regions, while state apprenticeship agencies have the responsibility in other areas of the country. If you don't have luck with unions, try contacting one of these agencies by checking local listings online or in your phone book blue pages. Enrolling in a machinist associate degree program is another option, but you'll still need work experience before you can call yourself a journeyman or advance beyond the lowest-paid positions.
-
What You'll Learn
-
Apprentices take part in both paid skills training and classroom learning. During skills training, apprentices learn on the job under the supervision of an experienced machinist. They learn how to use different tools to make metal parts. In the classroom, students learn physics, materials science, drafting, blueprint reading and safety precautions. In recent years, machine shops have started using more computer-controlled tools. CNC machine programming is now an essential skill taught both in the classroom and on the job.
Expected Pay
-
Machinists earn anywhere between $11.34 and $27.52 per hour, or $23,580 and $57,250 per year according to 2009 BLS data. Apprentices earn at the lowest end of the pay scale, but keep in mind that employers often pay for the classroom portion of employee training programs. The mean reported wage is $18.72 per hour or $38,940 per year. The highest-paid machinists work in natural gas distribution, earning $33.94 per hour or $70,600 annually on average.
-
References
- Photo Credit factory image by cico from Fotolia.com
