Each step in the process involves feats of visual imagination, three-dimensional geometry, and measurement. The calculations that machinists are expected to perform routinely would tax the skills of most mathematics teachers. A good command of geometry and trigonometry is essential for anyone building things in today's manufacturing industries. To use these tools effectively, workers need to have mastered drawing geometric objects, calculating distances, angles, areas and volumes, and using advanced concepts of light. Like the auto industry, other industries ranging from telecommunications to aerospace strictly monitor the manufacturing process so that the end product is free of defects.
Skilled workers are one key to the success of advanced high performance manufacturing.
Rather than make costly repairs to products after manufacturing, firms like General Motors, Boeing, Siemens, and Kodak now insist that at every step in the manufacturing process, materials, parts, and assembly meet strict specifications. Assembly line workers are responsible for maintaining this consistent level of quality. To monitor quality, today's assembly line worker uses statistical process control during the manufacture process. If the process strays outside predetermined limits for quality, the worker may decide to make adjustments or shut down the assembly line. Statistical quality control is similar but takes place after the manufacturing process is complete.