Hi There!

[sylas]

Hello all -

I'm hoping to learn more about the trade and hopefully come up with some answers to my questions.

I have been in IT, creative and technical areas, for about thirteen years. Prior to that I was a mechanic and spent the majority of that time working on vehicles and 12V systems. I trained as an A&P but never went into the field professionally.

Currently, March of '09, my employment prospects are not too hot. I haven't worked in IT for about a year as my family and I decided to pursue a major lifestyle change and homestead off-the-grid (it didn't work out ). In early '06 I got a Class A CDL but did not drive long enough to rack up meaningful experience. My license is still good and I have a current physical but it's clear I would have to attend school again to get back into the field.

It's time for me to make a serious change in my career direction and I'm very seriously considering becoming a machinist. I'm wondering what path I would need to follow to achieve that goal? I've checked on programs at schools in state (Colorado) and there are degree and certificate programs. Everything is so up in the air with our living situation right now I'm also considering moving to attend school or work. Are there any schools that really have a leg up on others? Am I wasting my time even considering this?

If anyone reads this and can help I would sure appreciate it!

[Shop owner]

Well all you would really need is for someone to give you a chance in a machine shop. You would more then likely start at the bottom but the good news is finding an entry level job in a shop has to be the easiest to find in this economy. Then see where it takes you. (If you still want or need some schooling after spending some time in the industry then enroll.) It looks like you’re literate based on what I read about you so this could equal to possible fast advancement. I’m a big proponent of on the job training simply because of situations like yours. Just because someone made it threw school doesn’t necessarily mean this is the best person for the job. I’ve found more often then not, people that entered into the trade on the job tend to be extremely savvy and turn out to be great employees. I wish you luck!

[timmay]

My son-in-law got into an apprenticeship program he found through this website:
http://www.machinistjobsite.com/Job_Seekers.php
The search is by state and county so you can check out all areas if you are thinking of moving for school. Hope this helps you and good luck.