Choose Machining Career?

[Nitro Turkey]

I am about to start my senior year in high school so I need to decide what I will do when I graduate. I looked for machining schools in my state (Kansas) and found Salina Technical School: http://www.salinatech.com/programs/m...ool_tech.shtml

How did you end up picking your career? I like to build things, work on old motors and like using the computer, I can do a little programming in Visual Basic and C++.

From what I have read, machinists are expected to be in demand well into the future (even with frequent outsourcing?).

If I learned to design / interpret 3d models, read and write G-code, and operate lathes / mills / etc how much could I expect my yearly income to be in 5 years time?

Is it realistic to expect to be able to open your own shop ( and making a living from it ) after a few years experience?

I look forward to any comments,

Thanks

[FUBAR62172]

If you like to build and make stuff I'd say this trade is for you.I graduated in 1990 from a vocational school-for machine shop. I'm currently working at my 5th company and making in the high twenties. I'm in the process of trying to start my own business now but it's near impossible to get any kind of loan.Good luck

[mc-motorsports]

Originally Posted by Nitro Turkey How did you end up picking your career?

I fell into it. I was just a motorhead that wanted to make some parts, took 2 years of trade school, quite honestly because it was easier for me than sitting through college level history and english classes, then got a job in a shop right out of high school. It's the only thing I've ever done and only carrer I know.

Originally Posted by Nitro Turkey From what I have read, machinists are expected to be in demand well into the future (even with frequent outsourcing?).

? Not so sure about that to be quite honest. You'll do good if you learn to speak Chinese though.

Originally Posted by Nitro Turkey how much could I expect my yearly income to be in 5 years time?

Add cost of living and adjust for area, $40's base pay plus overtime if you can get it is very realistic.

Originally Posted by Nitro Turkey Is it realistic to expect to be able to open your own shop ( and making a living from it ) after a few years experience?

10 years experience is a little more likely. Quite honestly, you won't know enough after 2 years. I was told once a true machinist needs as much knowledge and experience as a doctor, difference is metal doesn't scream when you make a mistake.

MC