Toolmaker

Toolmakers are skilled craftsmen who design, build, and repair tools, dies, and fixtures used in manufacturing processes. They work with a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. Toolmakers use a variety of tools and machines to create precise parts and molds. They must have a strong understanding of mathematics, physics, and engineering principles.

Education and Training

Most toolmakers complete an apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprenticeships typically last four years and include courses in blueprint reading, machining, welding, and heat treating. Toolmakers may also earn a certificate or associate degree in toolmaking or a related field.

Job Duties

Toolmakers perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Designing and building tools, dies, and fixtures
• Repairing and maintaining tools and machines
• Inspecting and testing parts and materials
• Setting up and operating CNC machines
• Working with other engineers and technicians to develop new products

Skills and Knowledge

Toolmakers must have a strong foundation in math, physics, and engineering principles. They must also be able to read and interpret blueprints, use computers, and operate a variety of tools and machines. Toolmakers should also have good problem-solving and communication skills.

Career Growth

Toolmakers can advance to supervisory or management positions. They may also start their own businesses. With additional training, toolmakers can become engineers or designers.

Transferable Skills

The skills and knowledge that toolmakers develop can be transferred to other careers in manufacturing, engineering, and design.

Day-to-Day

Toolmakers typically work in a shop or factory setting. They spend most of their time working with tools and machines. They may also spend time inspecting parts and materials, reading blueprints, and working with other engineers and technicians.

Challenges

Toolmakers face a number of challenges, including:

• Working with sharp tools and machinery
• Meeting deadlines
• Working in a noisy environment
• Lifting heavy objects
• Working overtime

Projects

Toolmakers may work on a variety of projects, including:

• Designing and building tools for a new product
• Repairing a broken machine
• Creating a prototype for a new product
• Developing a new manufacturing process
• Troubleshooting a production problem

Personal Growth

Toolmaking is a challenging but rewarding career. Toolmakers who are willing to learn and grow can advance to leadership positions or start their own businesses. They can also use their skills and knowledge to help others.

Personality Traits

Successful toolmakers are typically:

• Detail-oriented
• Patient
• Problem-solvers
• Good communicators
• Team players

Self-Guided Projects

Students who are interested in a career in toolmaking can prepare themselves by completing the following projects:

• Build a model airplane, car, or other object from scratch
• Repair a broken appliance or machine
• Create a prototype for a new product
• Volunteer at a local machine shop or factory
• Take online courses in toolmaking, machining, or engineering

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about toolmaking and prepare for a career in this field. Online courses can provide students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can also connect students with instructors and classmates from all over the world.

Online courses can help students learn about the following topics:

• Blueprint reading
• Machining
• Welding
• Heat treating
• CNC programming
• Design and engineering

Online courses can also help students develop the following skills:

• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Computer literacy

While online courses can be a helpful way to prepare for a career in toolmaking, they are not a substitute for apprenticeship training or on-the-job experience. Toolmakers who want to be successful in their careers should seek out opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and gain hands-on experience.