Originally Posted by vq240z  I am interested in learning to design and cnc custom auto parts. I did some very basic 2d cnc programming about 10 years ago, but that is the only experience I have in the field. I plan to start taking classes at the local CC.
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I became a machinist because I also wanted to make my own custom auto parts. That was almost 15 years ago. Today, I am self employed, and I can honestly say the only reason I love what I do is because I'm doing what I love.
CAD/CAM is what you REALLY need to know.
I've had my hands in countless builds and projects. I get paid to prototype and manufacture supercharger manifolds, turbo adapters, I couldn't possibly tell you how many diffrent custom parts I've made... Motorcycles, 4 wheelers, cars, trucks, a lot of parts for turbo diesels.
As much as sometimes I hate self-employement, and I hate machining and fabricating EVERY DAY ALL DAY, I can honestly say that I am proud of what I've done and even on the worst day, I can think back on all the projects and prototypes and custom parts I've made and smile
But I will warn you, if you do it for a living, the fun get sucked out of it FAST! My best advice is do it on the side. Make a couple of $$$ to fund the equiptment and your personal projects, but don't live off of it. Every day becomes "ground hog day", it's no longer your hobby. Don't let it consume you.
MC