One of the great things about becoming a CNC machine operator is that you are starting on a career path that has a tremendous amount of growth potential. The organic growth of a Machine Operator is huge. Over the years, as you progress from a basic machine operator to a seasoned “chip making expert”, you will gain a great deal of knowledge, career satisfaction, as well as a growing paycheck. But there is something more that comes from working in manufacturing. Let’s refer to that something extra as “exposure”.
What kind of exposure are we talking about? With your new position you will be given a front row seat to a great deal of cutting edge manufacturing methods and technology. That may involve production methods, machine maintenance, computers and software, exotic materials, cut tools, quality assurance and all the processes that go along with it.
Below are a few potential careers or advancement paths you have as a CNC operator:
· Machine Set Up
· Computer programming
· Quality Assurance
· Machinery repair and maintenance
· Engineering
· Design
· Technical sales
Once you are on a career path you can begin to see what you enjoy doing on a daily basis, as well as where your work skills and abilities truly lie. Starting as a CNC machine operator doesn’t mean that’s where your career will end. Be inquisitive and keep your eyes open. Where you go with your skills is up to you!
