Apprenticeship Program Descriptions

Machinists

HYDRO ELECTRIC MAINTENANCE MACHINIST, INDUSTRIAL CONTROLS TECH (MANUFACTURING PLANT ONLY, INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE MACHINIST, MACHINIST, MACHINIST (AIRCRAFT ORIENTED), MACHINIST METAL FABRICATOR, MACHINIST MOLD MAKER, MACHINISTS AUTOMOTIVE (MACHINE SHOP), MAINTENANCE MACHINIST, MAINTENANCE MACHINIST (AIRCRAFT ORIENTED), MARINE MACHINIST, MEATCUTTER FABRICATOR, OUTSIDE MARINE MACHINIST, SAW AND KNIFE MAKER, STRUCTURAL STEEL AND ORNAMENTAL METAL FABRICATORS, TOOL AND CUTTER GRINDER, TOOL AND DIE MAKER, TOOLING INSPECTOR

The Work
Machinists are highly skilled operators of machine tools used to make metal parts. Machinists can make just about anything out of metal. They follow blueprints, sketches or specific dimensions to make or repair machines, metal pieces and tools. Skilled crafts include tool and die maker, maintenance machinist, marine machinist, hydro electric maintenance machinist and general machinist.

Working Conditions
Machinists generally work indoors around high-speed cutting tools, moving machinery, metal chips and abrasive dusts. They work with drill presses, lathes, grinders, welding and cutting. The work can be physically strenuous, with some heavy lifting. Machinists are vulnerable to severe industrial accidents. Machinists must also be precise, careful and patient to correctly cut, fit and repair all kinds of machinery, from tiny metal parts to huge industrial machines.

The Apprenticeship
This program, depending upon trade, requires 4,000-10,000 hours (two to five years) of on-the-job training. In addition, related classroom training of 144-201 hours a year is required.

Apprenticeship Entry Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old
High school diploma or an equivalent degree
Physically able to perform the work of the trade