The Metal Market: The Keys to a Career in the Metalworking Industry

The working of metal has a long history. From the most ancient developers of bronze to the most innovative robot-welder programmers, those skilled in metalwork have provided many products that have improved life for humankind. If you are considering a career in metalworking, you will need to develop a variety of different skills that will allow you to advance in your field. Here are a few important keys to succeeding in this ever-evolving field.

Familiarity with Hand Tools

Metalworking involves frequent use of various types of hand tools, such as mallets, screwdrivers, pliers, clamps, files or other handheld devices. Most people who go into the field have some background in tool use for auto repair, carpentry, home remodeling or other activity. If you do not have a background in using these tools, you should take up a hobby that involves using them, so you will become comfortable with their handling and use.

Welding or Machining Skills

Individual who desire a career in metalworking should enter a qualified welding or machining program. A period of apprenticeship under an experienced metalworker can help you to develop the finer points of the craft, which will eventually allow you to take on more complex jobs at higher pay scales.

Understanding of Various Types of Equipment

Metalworking uses a wide range of equipment types, including welders, drilling machines, lathes, milling machines, grinders, saws, shaping machines, shearing machines and drill presses. Proper maintenance of the equipment used in metalworking is also critical to success in this field. For example, many cutting machines require the use of various type of lubrication, such as oils used specifically for cutting tools from companies like ETNA Products Inc.

Comprehensive Safety Training

Individuals who are interested in the metalworking field should go through a comprehensive industrial safety-training program. The metalworking field involves the use of tools, equipment and machinery that can cause injury to operators. Cuts, burn, injury to the eyes, the inhalation of dangerous fumes or powerful chemicals can occur during metalworking activities. In addition, those employed in this field may need to operate forklifts to move heavy materials or use dangerous bending and cutting equipment. A safety program that covers all of these issues will ensure that you are able to protect yourself from injury.

A career in metalworking can be both lucrative and personally satisfying. It is field in which daily accumulation of knowledge and experience that gradually becomes the mastery of technique that can be used to advance in a variety of career avenues. If you have an interest in the versatility of metal and how it can be used, mechanical ability and the drive to solve problems and learn new methods, metalworking can offer a career path with many opportunities.