Pardon my ignorance...what do machinists do?

Question

I have heard there is currently a shortage of them and the companies are recruiting women.

Answer 1

machinists operate machines, particularly production machines. Machines that assemble computers, machines that draw copper wires... it's traditionally man-work since certainly older machines required a lot of sweat and muscle to operate and maintain, but modern machinery is more delicate and computerized.

Answer 2

Ever wonder how a piece of metal becomes a nut, screw, or bolt? Machinists make that happen.

Basically, they run large machines such as CNC machines for precision metal works. They also use smaller machines like drill presses, lathes, and sanders for more custom and slightly less detailed work.

Answer 3

See preceding response. Machinists use lathes, milling machines, and other shop equipment to make parts -- typically, parts for other machines. There is both science and art in being a machinist; it's good work.

Answer 4

A machinist is someone who makes machine parts by operating precision equipment such as lathes, drill presses, etc. A good machinist can make engine parts from bulk steel.

Answer 5

they use machines that turn metal into parts or components for lots of different things.
For instance, a mchined part would be say a brake drum.
I work for a metal stamping company. When I had questions about this, I would go to wikipedia. It is very informative in the different types of metallurgy.

Answer 6

Machinists fabricate parts, tools, and other things needed by the manufacturing industry .

Answer 7

They drive trains.

Answer 8

they machine