Stecker Machine Blog

Let’s start this blog with some numbers on U.S. labor. Today …

• … there are 50% more job openings than at any time before the pandemic¹
• … there are 755,000 fewer people employed than pre-pandemic¹
• … there has been a 3% decline in workers ages 20 to 24 since the pandemic started¹
• … the unemployment rate is near a half-century low¹

So, what does that mean? An unprecedented U.S. labor shortage.

While every industry is being forced to adjust, how are CNC machine shops specifically handling the challenge? Let’s dig in and find out!

YOU likely can be a CNC machine operator.

We say that with confidence because of our decades of experience within the precision machining industry. That doesn’t mean it’s easy. It means excelling as a CNC machine operator doesn’t require extraordinary strength, a superior IQ, a college degree, or decades of experience. If you possess any of those, more power to you — they certainly help — but, you don’t need them.

Still with us? Good! Consider this article to be a checklist of the best practices and skills that you should have in order to begin and enjoy a long, fulfilling career as a CNC machine operator.

Pre-programmed computer software dictates the movements of a milling machine, lathe, robot, or other types of machines. Precision can be incredible — cutting to 0.001” or about 1/4 the width of a human hair — and their repeatability makes CNC machining so efficient.

That complexity may intimidate someone unfamiliar with CNC machine operations, but it shouldn’t. Expert CNC machine training can quickly get a new operator up to speed, producing precise and valuable machined parts and components.

What was it about this article’s title that grabbed you?

You must be either currently in or interested in CNC manufacturing. With demand sky high and modern CNC machine shops being as safe, clean, and worker-friendly as ever, it’s a smart career path that pays better than many other jobs.

Before jumping into the career tips, we want you to know about other blog topics that you may find interesting:

• Have you wondered What is a CNC Machine Operator? Short answer: a combination of brains and hands-on work that transforms metal castings into valuable working machined parts.
• Check out this discussion with a new CNC machine operator who shared why A Career in CNC Machining Might Be Perfect For You.
• In a previous article, we tackled the roles and responsibilities of the 7 “Must Have” People For Your CNC Machine Shop Team. It’s a great overview of how a CNC machine shop runs.

OK, how can you advance your CNC manufacturing career path? Here are 4 proven tips:

Today’s world demands the accuracy of CNC machine tools and experienced operators. Of course, machine shops vary in their skill levels and abilities to take on complex parts. So, here are 3 quick signs that a shop lives and breathes complex parts: