As I read over these messages it is interesting to find members that have come to the same conclusion as I have from simply years of experience. The phrase, "I've learned most from mistakes" is not only true, but takes an experienced, and humble, person to admit. When I first started in a machine shop I was laughed at by one of the "seasoned" machinist. I couldn't afford the nice new tool box full of Starrett's. I was hungry for knowledge, so I went to the local library and checked out a couple books only to discover that the library's books were better for machine shop history research! There was a movie I watch many years ago called "Lawn mower man". It depicted an awesome form of learning. Simply download all the information you want from CD's and DVD's into ones brain while they rest! Sounds easy enough except one thing is missing... "The Experience"!!! I worked for a company that made pace makers. I never touched a real pace maker though. I have no idea what a real one feels like, but I have one of the dumby ones they gave out to doctors sitting in my toolbox. I ran a centerless grinder while working there. I ran an EDM machine, CNC lathe, CNC machining center, manual lathe and mills. Before I became a machinist, I welded for over 10 years. The only reason I am sharing my job history here is to explain that the only way to gain experience is to do something. My father has told me for many years, "son, if you want to get somewhere, find a good job and stick with it". Sorry Dad, I didn't listen... My tool box has wheels for a reason, and good machinists are hard to find. best regards to ya, -al  |