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milling machines to drilling machines to lathes to grinders—to
consistently replicate a specific design. Machinists set up,
configure, operate, and oversee these CNC (computer numerically
controlled) systems and keep them running. When the work is done
correctly, it allows for fast precision manufacturing of parts and
products in bulk quantities.
The pay: The median salary for machinists in the United States is
around $53,180 a year.
The prospects: The machining sector is expected to see little to no
change in job numbers between 2022 and 2032. Currently, there
are about 390,000 jobs in this part of the manufacturing sector.
The education: The learning pathway for machinists runs quite
a range, with specific requirements varying depending on the
job and the employer. Some machinists learn their trade through
on-the-job training. Others go through apprenticeship programs,
while still others get their sense for machining equipment and craft
through schooling at vocational schools, trade schools, or technical
colleges.
Mechatronics
The job: Mechatronics is a newer segment of the skilled trades. In
fact, the word “mechatronics” wasn’t even coined until the 1970s.
Today, though, mechatronics might have some of the highest
potential for future growth—both in terms of jobs available and
salary draw. Mechatronics is a branch of mechanical engineering
that combines mechanical, electronic, telecommunication, and
automation concepts. Mechatronics professionals are the people
who devise, invent, build, test, operate, and maintain automated
systems for everything from manufacturing to dangerous or chal-
lenging tasks like deep sea exploration, hazardous waste cleanup,
and more.
The pay: The median wage for a mechatronics technologist in the
U.S. is just under $65,000 per year.