Machinist

Imagine someone invents a new machine that will revolutionize the way a certain product is manufactured. Have you ever wondered where parts, instruments and components come from to build that machine? Machinists are industrial technicians that provide the solution and also produce parts and components for existing machines.

WHAT DOES A MACHINIST DO?

Long before anyone had ever heard of a “maker space,” there were machinists trained craftspeople who produced parts and instruments using a variety of mechanical and computer-controlled machines.

Machinists set up and operate a variety of computer- and mechanically controlled tools to fashion raw materials like metal and plastic into precision parts and instruments.

Many machinists today must be able to use both manual and computer numerical control (CNC) machinery. Workers may produce large quantities of one part, small batches or one-of-a-kind items. Parts range from simple steel bolts to titanium bone screws for orthopedic implants.

Because most machinists train in CNC programming, they may also write basic programs and often modify programs. These modifications, called offsets, fix problems and improve efficiency by reducing manufacturing time and tool wear.

WHAT’S NEW? Remote smart operations • The Internet of Things incorporates smart, connected devices, including smart sensors to improve control over equipment and deliver more insights. • Various machines can operate autonomously, requiring human input or oversight only when something goes wrong. • When there is a problem, IoT offers much better diagnostic capabilities helping technicians pinpoint and correct problems. Laser-beam machining • A thermal process for chip or material removal, also known as laser micromachining (LBM). • A high-energy laser beam focuses on a component and the thermal energy transfers to the targeted surface. • Laser beam machining is more widely adopted in manufacturing, particularly for carbon-fiber materials and more durable composites. 3D printing • 3D printers can create products and components from a variety of raw materials, including concrete, wood, steel and an increasing range of metals, alloys, ceramics and metal-matrix composite materials. • Hybrid machining incorporates both traditional

CNC machining and 3D printing solutions to improve product development. • Manufacturers have much more control over the goods they create. Materials and components can be printed right at a job site with an unlimited range of customization. Automated finishing systems • Robotic-powered finishing systems are revolutionizing the quality and output of the machinist industry. • Robotic abrasive blasting systems offer unmatched improvements in quality, efficiency, versatility and safety.

WHERE DO MACHINISTS WORK?

The vast majority of machinists work in manufacturing industries and independent machine shops. Maintenance machinists work in most industries that use machinery in manufacturing plants.

Most machine shops are relatively clean, well-lit and ventilated and many computer-controlled machines are partially or totally enclosed. Exposure to noise, debris and lubricants are greatly minimized.

Workers must follow safety precautions, including wearing safety glasses and earplugs.

WHAT’S THE JOB OUTLOOK?

There were 2,850 machinists in Arkansas in 2018 and the outlook for this job is good. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts job growth of 8%, doubling last year’s growth estimates. Arkansas’s projected job growth is in line with that figure. HOW MUCH CAN I MAKE? • Lower range wages (bottom 10 percent) — $28,890 annually/$13.89 per hour • Middle range wages (median) — $41,670 annually/$20.03 per hour • Higher range wages (top 10 percent) — $72,380 annually/$34.80 per hour

Individual wages can fluctuate by industry, experience and skill level. Machinists can advance in their careers in several ways: • Become CNC programmers. • Become tool-and-die or mold makers. • Be promoted to supervisory or administrative positions. • Open your own machine shop.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE SUCCESSFUL? • Physical strength/stamina • Analytical and mathematical skills • Attention to detail • Mechanical/technical skills

HOW DO I LEARN THE CRAFT?

After earning a high school diploma or equivalent, some machinists learn entirely on the job. Others acquire skills in a mix of classroom and on-the-job training.

Formal training programs, typically sponsored by a union or manufacturer, are an excellent way to learn the job.

Training programs are often a combination of paid shop training and related classroom instruction and, depending on the program, can take months or years.

Two-year college programs range from a couple of months to two years.

In Arkansas, machinists don’t generally serve an apprenticeship like other trades do.