Makes the precise molds, dies, and tools factories use to stamp and shape parts.
You machine a steel die that will stamp a million car door panels, hand-fit it, and test it on a giant press.
Apprenticeship, about 4 years after high school. 4-5 year apprenticeship or a machining degree.
Ways in: Apprenticeship, Trade school. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Tool & Die Technology, Machine Tool Technology.
Shrinking (about -5% over 10 years). BLS projects decline due to automation and offshoring, but retirements open spots.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. 3D printing and AI-driven CAM reduce some die work; precision fitting and repair of tooling stay skilled human work.
Classes: Geometry, Machine shop CTE, Physics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-4111.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.