Will “Model Maker Machinist” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components.

• Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.

• Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.

• Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.

• Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.

• Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts.

• Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications.

• Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.

• Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.

• Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.

• Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.

• Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.

• Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.

• Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.

• Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines.

• Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.