Wow, I have to say I've found this thread, one of the more interesting that I've read for a while. For you guys who are practicing machinists and/or apprentices would you recommend the trade?
My brother is looking at going back to school as he developed an inner ear problem and couldn't go to sea anymore as a marine diesel mechanic. He's looking at either going back and taking welding (he's already a pretty good welder) or machinist. I think he's looking at the manual side of things at first, with the intention of doing the CNC stuff later, once he has some experience under his belt.
He's always liked working with metal and making things, but he wasn't too sure as to whether or not he'd be able to secure a required (I think) apprenticeship that would permit him to still eat...
The other thing was whether or not the work itself would be interesting, or would the vast majority of it be some shop foreman saying here, go make me 1,000 or these...?
I'm guessing the job must involve a lot of standing in one place on concrete for hours on end with lots of repetitive motions? Or am I wrong on that count?
What about the average salaries, opportunity for jobs out west, i.e., Alberta oil patch & related. I know he'll have no problem picking up a job welding. I'd appreciate any input you might have to offer, as deadlines are approaching for his school applications!
My brother is looking at going back to school as he developed an inner ear problem and couldn't go to sea anymore as a marine diesel mechanic. He's looking at either going back and taking welding (he's already a pretty good welder) or machinist. I think he's looking at the manual side of things at first, with the intention of doing the CNC stuff later, once he has some experience under his belt.
He's always liked working with metal and making things, but he wasn't too sure as to whether or not he'd be able to secure a required (I think) apprenticeship that would permit him to still eat...
The other thing was whether or not the work itself would be interesting, or would the vast majority of it be some shop foreman saying here, go make me 1,000 or these...?
I'm guessing the job must involve a lot of standing in one place on concrete for hours on end with lots of repetitive motions? Or am I wrong on that count?
What about the average salaries, opportunity for jobs out west, i.e., Alberta oil patch & related. I know he'll have no problem picking up a job welding. I'd appreciate any input you might have to offer, as deadlines are approaching for his school applications!