Machinists are the lifeblood and foundation of today's high-tech manufacturing industries. A machinist produces parts for just about every industry in the world, including aerospace, medical, defense, transportation, recreation, mining, and more. Operating state-of-the-art CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, a machinist sculpts and cuts material — from metal and plastic to composites — with precision.
As an industry and career, machining is evolving as technology advances and requires someone with good problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Some machinists also look toward expanding their STEM education skills to become engineers or programmers.
Being an Apprentice
The Machinist Apprentice Program is an ideal way for young people to enter the growing and dynamic industry of manufacturing. You will learn while you earn, obtaining a journeyman's certificate in the process. This certificate will provide a great career in a high-tech world that offers great pay and benefits.
Eligible Participants
To participate, applicants must have completed high school and be at least 18 years old. If you are younger or have not yet graduated, we invite you to consider early college options at a local tech college. As a high school student, you can start working on your machining certificate at your local tech colleges (ATCs) tuition-free. In addition to day-time enrollment, many tech college programs are open to high school students in the evening and during the summer. This will allow you to be working towards fulfilling the qualifications for a machinist certificate.
The ideal candidate is someone who is highly motivated and hardworking, likes to solve problems, and has some mechanical aptitude and a love of technology.
Apprentice Requirements
To complete the Machinist Apprentice Program and earn a journeyman's certificate, you will receive 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours in classroom education over a 4-year period.
