Tuesday, March 16, 2010

How to Become a Tool and Die Maker

Tool and die makers are highly skilled workers in the manufacturing arena. The tool and die maker works to produce devices that allow machines to manufacture a wide range of products such as parts for vehicles, appliances for our homes and clothing.

  1. Get a high school diploma or a GED. You must be good at math, taking and reading measurements and reading blueprints. Take advantage of computer courses as well. Know how to use a computer. Most of the product designs for machine parts are done on computer.

  2. Learn to use different types of machine tools and become familiar with precision measuring instruments. Study about the different properties of various metals, plastics and other materials. If you become a tool and die maker you will make machines, parts for machines and tools that are used to form and cut materials for manufacturing all kinds of products. You may even work with designers and engineers in the planning stages, once you gain experience.

  3. Find work in a company that offers apprenticeship programs. Most tool and die making companies actually prefer to train their employees. You can start at entry-level with a company and get paid to work as you learn the trade. It usually takes four or five years to become a highly skilled craftsman in this specialized career.

  4. Plan to become a specialist in a certain field. Most tool and die makers eventually focus on one type of tool, mold or type of die that they have become proficient in. Be prepared for detail-oriented work as you complete on-the-job training.

  5. Consider taking courses at a community college or vocational school to give yourself a leg up in the field. These schools offer courses in tool design and advanced math such as algebra. These courses will be quite helpful if you plan to become a tool and die maker.


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