Products ranging from pens to automobile parts to medical implants are produced by the molding process. Moldmakers use both manual and computer controlled machine tools to build plastic injection molds that require intricate 3-dimensional shapes and close tolerances. Moldmakers must be able to visualize 3-dimensional objects from a blueprint, pay attention to details and work to close tolerances. A shortage of moldmakers has created excellent career opportunities for these highly skilled craftsmen. Moldmakers usually work in small mold shops but can also find work in large companies.
Opportunities exist to move into management positions or start a business.
Subjects covered include electric arc, wire feed, and heliarc welding, oxyacetylene welding, and various flame cutting processes. Students work with a wide variety of metals, including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron. Shop fabrication, math, and blueprint reading are also covered. Welders already in the field can update their knowledge by registering for specific major courses. The structural fabricator will interpret prints and lay out, fit, and weld components to assemble structural forms.