Machinist: The Machinist Trade

Introduction
To become a machinist, you don’t need a high school diploma, but it definitely helps. Working experience, however, is invaluable. I started my career in Washington as an apprentice at the Honeywell Machinist Plant. They have a great apprenticeship program that runs for roughly four years, and I encourage others to apply if you are in the area. If not, then I’m sure there are other similar programs available around the country.

Job Function
Well, a machinist’s job involves working with a lot of metalworking equipment to shape, refine and design parts. Personally, I’m pretty good at reading blueprints and using the grinder to cut the metal for parts to almost exact specifications. When I say exact, I mean EXACT. There really is little room for error, and sloppy work just leads to unhappy bosses and useless parts for clients. One time, I was assigned the task of grinding and shaping cogwheels for use in an antique clock. I accidentally grinded one of the wheels a little too much and that kept the cogs from turning properly. It was an invaluable learning experience, to say the least. Advertisement
Lifestyle
Basically, it’s a lot of daily strenuous work like the cog-grinding exercise I mentioned before. The machines require both focus and energy to manage, but once you are used to them, you will be fine. A good apprenticeship will not only equip you with the necessary knowledge to use the machines but also ready you for the daily rigors of a machinist’s life.

Additional Information
Overall, I have found learning the trade to be supremely invaluable. There will always be a need for skilled machinists, because generic manufacturing plants lack the careful attention to detail that humans possess. So, if you love working with your hands and shaping new objects out of nothing, then maybe this will be a good career for you.