What Is a Tool Die Maker and How to Become One
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What Do Tool and Die Makers Do?
Tool and die makers use manufacturing equipment to produce parts and tools. During a typical workday, you can find a tool die maker producing a jig, fixture, die, or gauge. Tool and die makers must have basic engineering skills along with knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to review blueprints and project specifications. In many cases, a tool and die maker creates customized manufacturing tools, forming a jig, fixture, or gauge for a specific purpose.
How to Become a Tool and Die Maker
Start your career as a tool and die maker by earning a high school diploma or GED certificate. Enroll in an apprenticeship or vocational training program to gain on-the-job training in machining, computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and other key job skills. Apprentices benefit from paid hands-on training and machining work along with technical instruction. Use your apprenticeship experience to learn about forming jigs, metal fixtures, gauges, and other commonly-used parts that tool die makers produce.
