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Why be a machinist apprentice?
One of the biggest challenges of launching a career is finding the right opportunity to get started while completing an education without incurring the burden of student debt. As a machinist apprentice, you can learn while you earn and build a career with great pay and benefits, excellent working environment, and potential for growth. You will have the advantage of being mentored by experienced machinists.
Who is the ideal candidate for an apprenticeship?
The ideal candidate for an apprenticeship is highly motivated with a desire to learn. For those with a strong mechanical aptitude, a love of technology, and a desire to start a career in high-tech manufacturing, being an apprentice would be a perfect fit.
What is the starting salary for apprentices?
A typical hourly wage for a machinist apprentice is $10-$12 per hour. As you attain more experience and hours, however, you can quickly progress. After 5 years, you can expect to be making $38,000-$50,000 and after 10 years, you can expect to make up to $80,000. Some machinists even make 6 figures dependent on their experience and talent.
What are the benefits of being an apprentice?
The best part of being a machinist apprentice is that you get to learn from others who have vast experience in the industry. You also will get paid while you accomplish your educational goals, earning stackable credentials including a journeyman's certificate that can also be applied to an Associates of Applied Technology in Apprenticeship at Weber State University. Most companies offer tuition reimbursements.
What is a journeyman's certificate?
A journeyman's certificate is issued by the U.S. Department of Labor and indicates that you have completed the requirements, including 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom training which takes 4 years to complete. The journeyman's certificate is widely recognized by employers throughout the country as a "4-year degree in machining." If you change jobs or move, you will have this certificate as proof of your experience and qualifications as a machinist.
What kind of industries do machinists work with?
Machinists produce parts for a variety of industries, including aerospace, defense, medical, recreational, energy, mining, and many more.
How much money can I make in this industry?
Job and wage prospects for machinists are stronger than ever. A machinist with a journeyman’s certificate can work anywhere in the country, with annual wages running between $40,000 and $80,000 or more, depending upon the region of the country. As a machinist, you can be assured of a great deal of job security, competitive salaries, and career track opportunities.
What are the career opportunities?
Many machinists become interested in the programming and engineering aspects of machining while others may move into management positions. Obtaining a journeyman's certificate lays the groundwork for a long career in manufacturing.
Who is eligible for this program?
All highly motivated candidates are welcome to apply. Qualified candidates will be graduated from high school and at least 18 years of age. Experience is not necessary, but a good work ethic and desire to learn are the keys to success.
What can I do to prepare if I'm not old enough or graduated yet?
Our local Utah tech colleges offer a variety of classes and most high schools offer tuition reimbursement and dual-credit opportunities where they will pay for those credits. Review our resources page for more info to contact these colleges and work with your school counselor.
How do I get started as an apprentice?
Complete the Apprenticeship Application. If you are not selected as an apprentice this year or need additional experience, we encourage you to talk to your local technical college and explore options for enrolling into their machining programs. Getting started now will greatly enhance your attractiveness to employers hiring apprentices.
Ready to get started? Apply now!