Ahh, where to start?

[the spyder]

This is simmilar to the other career thread. I am currently working at a large engineering firm that specalizes in CMM and CNC specialty jobs. We have a Matsuura 630 plus and HAAS VF5. Today I was approached about working in the machine shop and learning Master Cam so I can program the CNC machines.

Now... What is my real job there?
I am the computer geek/ network administrator. Im only part time and theres only 40 systems to take care of. I hate to say, its not a challenge. I am still in school (at 21), doing this, and going after buisness/computer related degrees.
I think this will be a great "Oh im bored, what can I go make in the machine shop for fun/learning." I will not be sticking around CNC work all my life, but I think it would be something awsome to learn how to do. Plus, I see myself in this job for atleast a year or two (which could easily turn into 4). I want to be a full time NA at a large company, more challening company. I have owned my own consulting firm for 10 years now.

Where should I start? On the Lagun vertical mill, learning how it works and all the tools? Then start studying the Master Cam software and testing some simple stuff? I have a coworker wanting to teach me how to program in it.
Should I take the plung? I have never been good with math, but I think I can manage this.

[Matt Berube]

More learning = more job security for the rest of your life. If you end up being a NA for a company that uses CAD CAM software in the future, having some practical experience using those softwares will be a tremendous advantage to you.

There are a lot of basics involved with machining that take time and experience to grasp. Go slow and try not to get frustrated. NEVER take shortcuts. They ALWAYS sneak up and bite you right in the @ss eventually. Hopefully your mentor has already learned this.

Learning to program will come fairly easy for you with your computer skills. Math is not that much of a big deal anymore. In Mastercam, mathematical calculations can be entered directly into dialog boxes which simplifies things. The math required for machining without the benefit of CAD would make your head spin. Lets all be thankful those days are gone.

Be careful ! It's very easy to get hurt in a machine shop. You'll have a hard time (or at least be much slower) trying to be a computer geek if you chop off one of your hands. Beware of long hair, neckties, rings, watches, loose clothing, etc. Many horific injuries have happened to careless or untrained people.

Most companies won't invest all the required training time to make a machinist out of a computer guru who is likely to leave after finishing his degree.

Be careful how honest you are about your long term intentions or you may find yourself cut off from additional training.

If you have somebody willing to show you some things I say go for it.

Where to start ? I say jump in wherever your trainer happens to be on any given day. You will learn far more quickly "on the fly" in real world situations than any simulated classroom experience. Just start by being his/her shadow for a while.

Hope this helps !