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A machinist is a creator. They make a wide array of metal or plastic machine parts; most work in manufacturing. Read on for more information on how to become a machinist.
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Tips on Becoming a Machinist
- 1. Take coursework you will use as a machinist
- 2. Consider an internship
- 3. Obtain machinist credentials
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Featured
This video gives a detailed description of the highly skilled machinist's job, including a myriad of job duties and special skills needed to become an effective, experienced machinist. Some machinists work with mass quantities of just one kind of part; others may produce one-of-a-kind, specific parts.
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Introduction
- Machinists are highly skilled workers who design and develop machine parts. Machinists use tools such as lathes and milling or drilling machines to create create parts which can be made of a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, silicon and other metals or plastics. Machinists work with metals and plastics the way carpenters work with wood—carefully planning, cutting and perfecting the machine parts to ensure they will work properly.
Step 1: Education
- While no formal education is required to become a machinist, many learn their craft in trade or vocational schools. Some begin the learning process in high school. Others take courses at community colleges. Coursework may include classes in:
- Mathematics
- Blueprint reading
- Metalworking
- Drafting
Step 3: Find a Job
- Once you have completed your education and training, and obtained credentials, it is time to find a job! Machinists who have worked as apprentices or interns for manufacturing companies may be hired on as full-time workers. Others will be hired only after actively searching for a job. Check online job postings at websites like Monster.com or Careerbuilder.com. NIMS also has an online job board.
Conclusion
- Machinists are specially trained experts at crafting metal or plastic parts for machines. From automobile to airplane parts, machinists use their skills to create parts meet the precise specifications of manufacturers. To become a successful machinist, you must be detail-oriented and able to adapt to working with a variety of tools and machines.
