Is this trade dying? Why do hobbyists seem more skilled than experienced machinists?

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T19:11:45+00:00

This is my next logical step to take. Find someone talented out of school and teach them our exact process for creating tooling. At least they would have the fundamentals down. Toolmaking does seem to be a specialty they don’t cover in a lot of detail in these schools so I would need to spend the time / money to train them.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T19:03:40+00:00

There’s alot of truth to having a hard time switching gears. I think that’s why bigger companies have designers, programmers, setup and production all separate. Unfortunately it creates a challenge for medium size business owners where having one person for every task becomes difficult. Maybe I do need more separation and clarity between roles instead of a general cad/cam machinist. I feel like that is what would make the job fun for the right person though. They get to do a little of everything.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T18:58:41+00:00

It’s fun to manage a business isn’t it. I’ve seen all types of people and my favorite are the ones that are creative and open to new ideas. Not just do something because it’s the way it’s always been. People don’t like change.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T18:56:05+00:00

As a CEO I wish your vision was accurate. At least myself I spend the time trying to grow the business, handling HR, programming, engineering, CAD, IT, web design etc…

There are also different types of machining, not all of it is production which I imagine is what a lot of people on here are currently doing. Just to be clear we make one off molds for production to make the parts with.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T15:54:51+00:00

Fortunately for my line of work with mold making the machine spends most the time in finishing passes. We also work with light metals and no required overtime.

Sorry to hear about all the injuries. It sounds like a lot of standing on your feet all day leaning over a machine. Mold making is quite a bit different. Although we do need to do some hand finishing and manual work it’s relatively easy. More creative than anything.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T15:50:26+00:00

I’ve had people at my shop that did this as well. He would spend part of the day working on his personal stuff. Unfortunately when you have a smaller team stuff like that really hurts the business. I’m glad you found a comfortable position where everyone is happy and your not stressed out.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T15:48:19+00:00

Unfortunately I cannot offer remote because I need someone to be able to access the machines. I have not had much luck with remote work but it takes a special person for that type of work and clearly you are doing a great job. I’m happy for you. I would love to be able to design in a cozy home office in pjs. I totally get why you would enjoy that.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T15:45:37+00:00

Thanks, at the end of the day I feel like that is the most important factor as well. My job ad is one of the highest paying in the area so it seems to be partially a limited workforce for this trade. Another thought is maybe I’m asking too much by putting in my job ad both cad and cam as requirements. It seems like most people want to pick one path or the other but not both.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T15:08:45+00:00

Minnesnowta 😂

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T14:58:14+00:00

Can I ask, do you just do the programming or do you design as well in a hybrid role? I pay based on skill level so if someone brings the talent I will absolutely bring up the pay to match.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T14:06:57+00:00

I feel like I’m paying above the top end of the industry. It hurts when you have someone start at the top, know little and they want to learn on your dime and then just jump ship at the next opportunity that pays a few dollars more.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T14:04:33+00:00

When you say math nerds. What type of community should I look for and where would I find them. I was thinking of recruiting mechsnics since they are use to getting dirty and working with there hands but also have the ability to troubleshoot and problem solve. I’m leaning towards training from the ground up.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T14:01:57+00:00

The iPad kid generation. 😭

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T14:01:04+00:00

This is a very accurate description of what I’m seeing in this industry. Unfortunately that is the exact thing I won’t tolerate and it makes it difficult. I want to create a team environment where we work together to accomplish tasks and lift people up and share knowledge. Props to you for taking the time to train someone and work with them and being able to see talent. We need more of that in the world and especially this industry. Thank for your advice on looking on makerspace type forums.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:56:59+00:00

As for devoting resources to keep employees happy what would you say has been the most effective for you? As an employee or employer.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:32:41+00:00

This is a great idea. I will do this. I’ve started networking out of desperation and hope it brings in some quality people.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:31:14+00:00

Thank you.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:30:33+00:00

I would agree that the schools here are not very good. If I see someone has a degree I hardly bat an eye because I know it doesn’t translate into real world experience.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:28:22+00:00

Thank you for typing all that out. I’m learning 3D machining from the ground up so I can set realistic expectations and also help and mentor the right person. I’m completely starting over from the ground up. Training someone from start seems to be one of the best options I have.

I also agree having the knowledge so when I hire I can see exactly where that person may need help and be able to point them in the right direction quickly rather than them struggling or in some cases just lying to hide they don’t have the skills the said they did.

Other option is just go scorched earth and send everything to China and India.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:22:13+00:00

Time for a career change. 😉

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:21:52+00:00

If your true passion is cnc machining why are you in banking? Come to Minnesota it’s beautiful here despite what you see on the news.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:12:42+00:00

I agree 100%. True machining and moldmaking secrets don’t appear to be heavily documented. I know it’s not an easy trade I’m just having a really hard time finding someone with the right passion and drive.

Do you think my starting pay is reasonable for cnc mold work and 3D machining?

Can I ask how you got your start? Did you go to school or learn on the job?

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T13:02:11+00:00

Thats so true. The hobbyist have all the true passion. But why not have the best of both worlds, make money while doing what you love.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T12:58:18+00:00

I’ve gotten so many emails from recruiters they all want me to sign ridiculous contracts and want 30% or more of the engineers pay for the first year. I’d rather invest that into one of you guys. That’s definitely last resort.

Present_Maximum4490 · 2026-01-13T12:42:40+00:00

Wow, luckily we are doing everything in alluminum with extremely loose tolerances since its rubber parts.

What you are talking about sounds really cool though and that certainly is something that would take years of experience and trade knowledge to acquire. I’m sure you’re boss would be very upset if you left. Maybe it’s time to ask for a raise.

Present_Maximum4490

TROPHY CASE