Skills you can learn in the CNC Machining Industry

In this article, we are going to examine some additional skills you can pick up via a career in CNC Machining. Read on to explore them.

As it usually is with many other jobs, CNC machining teaches you skills that you can apply not only in the field itself, but as well in other fields. In this article, we are going to explore the different skills you learn alongside the job of being a CNC machinist. But first, a brief intro into CNC machining.

CNC machining involves carrying out tasks like drilling, boring and cutting under the instructions of a computer. With CNC, the machines make a set of instructions and specifications out of computer files and turns a piece of metal into a finished product by refining and cutting based on the instructions. CNC services machine parts on behalf of their clients – following specified design specifications.

It is a scientific practice that has heavy leanings in physics, chemistry, mathematics and geometry. Prior knowledge of these disciplines is required to break into the field.

CNC machinists are paid very well with the median wage hovering around $60,000 per year. It is a lucrative career path with incredible potential for advancement and upward mobility within the job itself. One should always aim to get better and better at their skill and that is what this piece is centered on. Here, we are going to take a look at some quick little tips that if followed, will ensure that you get better and better at machining CNC parts.

With regards to skills, the CNC Machining industry teaches you:

To improve your problem solving skills. Machining relies a huge deal on the ability of personnel to solve a multitude of problems that are sure to arise on an almost daily basis. Occasionally, a defective set-up might be passed on to you and when that happens, it becomes your job to see to it that the problem is rectified in good time. Just like with everything else however, you will get better and better with experience and eventually become more capable to handle even the most complex screw-ups. It will also help that many of the problems that
arise subsequently will be those that you’ve faced (and conquered) before.

To become an expert at fixture and tooling. Programming a new CNC part is most times the easiest part of the job, however, the real work arises in selecting the right tooling that ensures that the job runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. There is a huge difference between using cheap tooling that just works as opposed to more expensive tooling that does the job a whole lot better. Always analyze the situation properly so as to select the right tooling for the set-up.

Be persistent and focused. Relative to other careers, CNC jobs can seem a little bit underpaid in the entry level positions. Note that anyone can thrive in this career if they put in the requisite effort, especially with it comes to overtime hours. Do not shy away from the grueling work as they help you build a solid foundation as well as earn your stripes in the business.

In conclusion, you can learn a lot through the theory and practice of CNC machining. There are many additional aptitudes and skills that are picked up as you pursue this career path- few of which have been discussed in this article.