You’ll need to have your high school diploma or equivalent. For a tool and die maker job, you may need additional qualifications. Courses in math, metalwork, blueprint reading and drafting will be useful. It’s helpful to have a driver's license.
Machinists, CNC machinists and tool and die makers often complete a trade school program, which takes around 24 months. There, they learn design and blueprint reading, math, drafting, metalworking, how to use welding and cutting tools, programming and working with CNC machines.
Much of a machinist's training is learned on the job. Some find an apprenticeship, which can last up to four years and will include the training just described. Other apprenticeships build on training received at a community college or technical school. These different training arrangements are one of the fastest routes to a skilled trade job that pays well.