A machinist can take raw materials and produce a specialized finished product or item through knowledge that is a combination of theoretical information and hands-on experience.
Students in this program get a full introduction to the field and practical experience in machining operations used in practically every manufacturing industry. The graduate is capable of making intricate parts or meeting precise specifications. A Machine Tool Operator certificate may be received after earning 26 credit hours in the appropriate courses.
Graduates in this field may be required to:
build tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and measuring devices used in the manufacturing of metal and plastic parts
follow blueprints or other instructions to determine specifications and sequences of operations needed to make the tool, die, or fixture
mark reference points or lines on work piece to indicate machining operations or areas of metal removal
operate lathes, grinders, mills and other machines to form the tool, die or fixture
assemble parts of machined items
Graduates in this field commonly experience:
working with CNC machining centers in various environments
team work in cooperation with others
perform a variety of duties and tasks
self directed planning
meet customer deadlines (Some with tight schedules)
additional hours sometimes required
active: walking, carrying, standing
lifting to 70 lbs.
Graduates in this field should have:
good oral and written communication skills
ability to work with inanimate objects (setting up, operating, maintaining)
ability to do precision work
ability to "catch on" quickly
ability to perform arithmetic functions quickly and accurately
spatial aptitude: comprehend two-dimensional objects; recognize relationships resulting form the movement of objects
mechanical reasoning: understand mechanical principles and devices, understand how things work and how to fix them
good motor coordination
consistency and dependability
self-discipline
Graduates in this field can expect the following developments:
very good to excellent job opportunities
salary average: $27,025 for 2009-2011 graduates
salary range: $17,000- 40,500 per year for 2009-2011 graduates
73% placement rate for 2009-2011 graduates
employment in cities and towns of all sizes
further education generally ensures higher salary
experience allows move into technically complex job, design or engineering technician duties
entry positions: machinist, CNC operator, tool maker, technician, tool & die maker, maintenance mechanic, shop foreman
self-employment
Recent graduates have found work at:
Anderson Metals
Gallman Welding
Lanford Welding and Mechanical Inc.
Mundy Companies (Austin Industrial)
Red Line Machining
Ware Shoals Machine Shop