Considering becoming a machinist - need advice

[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.

I have a bunch of questions. Sorry for so many, but I don't really have any idea what to expect.

Are there people who specialize in cad/cam and cnc, or are machinists usually required to know all the non computerized machines as well?

What courses should I be taking, or is this something a guidance counselor would be able to answer correctly?

Can I expect to get an entry level position somewhere with a handful of classes under my belt, while I continue my education? What type of work would this likely be? What is a guestimate of pay for a position like this?

Any advice for a complete newb such as myself?

Thanks in advance,
T

[flick]

Some people may be able to give you more specific answers if you are more specific about your location. Where I am (Canada) we have interprovincial standards, so I should theoretically be able to give any other Canadian a good answer to the sort of questions you ask. In the US, however, standards vary from state to state.

[vq240z]

I am in Virginia Beach, Va.

Also, I forgot to ask about math requirements for machining. I had anticipated needing a strong grasp of geometry, but in the local CC's catalog they list pre-calc as a course in the cad/cam certificate program. What math courses do all you guys here have under your belt?
'

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by vq240z I am in Virginia Beach, Va.

What types of machine shops are in your area, meaning what type of work do they do??

[vq240z]

Originally Posted by tobyaxis What types of machine shops are in your area, meaning what type of work do they do??

Seems like a decent mixture of different types. A few race shops, one large shop that does tooling, prototyping, production and assembly, Steel America that handles "heavy machining and fabrication up to 500 tons", Stihl USA is here (chainsaw manufacturers) as well as a few other factories. A few fab shops that advertise sheet metal fab and welding. Quite a few shops that cater to the commercial shipping/ Navy shipyards as well.

Hopefully that gives you an idea of what's around.

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by vq240z Seems like a decent mixture of different types. A few race shops, one large shop that does tooling, prototyping, production and assembly, Steel America that handles "heavy machining and fabrication up to 500 tons", Stihl USA is here (chainsaw manufacturers) as well as a few other factories. A few fab shops that advertise sheet metal fab and welding. Quite a few shops that cater to the commercial shipping/ Navy shipyards as well. Hopefully that gives you an idea of what's around.

Actually it gives you a lot of options.
As far as getting educated, learn as much as possible. One thing at a time.
Learn Manual Machining first. Mills, Lathes, Grinders
Then CNC Mills, Lathes
These will give you a foundation to build CAD/CAM Skills

You might be required to purchase measuring tools like:
calipers, micrometers and indicators. Do not buy cheap ones if you plan on sticking with this. Buy the good stuff and you won't have to replace them as long as you take good care of them.
Starrett, B&S, and Mitutoyo are good brand names.

You will need basic hand tools like: Allen wrenches, Dead Blow Hammer, Assorted open end wrenches, pliers, vise grips, and maybe a small socket set.

Safety Glasses are a must have. Good comfortable work shoes also.

Good luck on your adventure and you can plan on learning a lot.

[cramccar]

My $0.02...don't underestimate the value of learning the manual machines. Obviously, a career in the machining industry (working for yourself or for another corporation) will require some advanced computer skills, but you'll always fall back on the basics that you learned on the manual machines.


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[ZipSnipe]

Most machine shops or tool and die, will want you to have at least 5 years experience before they let you behind a cnc terminal, you'll most likely start off manually and you intro to cnc at any shop would probably be drilling holes in fixtures or non critical stuff. First thing you'll learn is how easy it is to take .001 too much off and end up scrappin the part. That will will make ya feel just fine!!!
Patience is the number #1 quality you need, if I had more patience I would have been a much better machinist.

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by ZipSnipe Most machine shops or tool and die, will want you to have at least 5 years experience before they let you behind a cnc terminal, you'll most likely start off manually and you intro to cnc at any shop would probably be drilling holes in fixtures or non critical stuff. First thing you'll learn is how easy it is to take .001 too much off and end up scrappin the part. That will will make ya feel just fine!!! Patience is the number #1 quality you need, if I had more patience I would have been a much better machinist.

Wow I wish it was this easy for me. I was thrown into the frying pan and feed to the sharks, LOL. No place to hide in small shops I suppose.

[mc-motorsports]

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.

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