Philip Bernard
High School: Jacksonville Christian Academy  •  Age: 32
Training: Arkansas State University–Beebe (Searcy Campus)
Degree: Technical Certificate in Computerized Machining Technology
Employer: Remington Arms Company in Lonoke

"I go to work every day enjoying what I do. There is a certain feeling of accomplishment every time I finish a part. ...I am able to afford as many guns as I want now."

THIS OPTION IS FOR YOU IF...

√ You’re a perfectionist
√ You like following step-by-step instructions
√ You enjoy your ag or shop classes
√ You like to see instant results for your work

Job Outlook
+2%
Expected growth from 2016 to 2026 in the United States

280
Average annual job openings in Arkansas

2,730
Expected number of jobs in Arkansas by 2026

What does a machinist do?
Machinists use raw materials to make their own parts and tools. They operate machines, and the parts and tools they create eventually go toward building larger things.

Responsibilities

• Understand blueprints and computer-aided design (CAD) files
• Operate different types of machine tools
• Monitor the various machines
• Examine completed products to make sure they meet standards
• Communicate with customers to adjust products as needed

High-end earners (top 10%) make
$76,085

Average Wages in Arkansas
$40,610 - Annual | $19.52 - Hourly

TRAINING PROGRAMS
Arkansas Construction Education Foundation
Arkansas State University–Mid-South
Arkansas State University–Beebe ( Searcy Campus)
Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus (Spring 2019)
East Arkansas Community College
National Park College
North Arkansas College
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas

READY TO HIRE YOU!
ABB Motors & Mechanical
Associated General Contractors
Caterpillar
Georgia-Pacific
Hytrol
McKee Foods Corporation
Pace Industries
Riggs Catepillar
Tyson Foods

TOOL + DIE

Job Outlook
460
Expected number of jobs in Arkansas by 2026

What does a tool & die maker do?
Tool & Die makers are a type of machinist who make specialty tools, usually for specific employers,
like dies and cutting tools.

Skills of tool & die makers:
Attention to detail, problem-solving, analytical thinking, hand-eye coordination

Responsibilities

• Understand blueprints for making the specific products
• Calculate dimensions for the tools
• Inspect the finished products and repair any problems
• Adjust parts to make sure they fit together

Average Wages in Arkansas
$40,760 - Annual | $19.59 - Hourly

TRAINING PROGRAMS
Arkansas State University–Beebe (Searcy Campus)
East Arkansas Community College
North Arkansas College
Phillips Community College of
the University of Arkansas
 
READY TO HIRE YOU!
Hytrol
Pace Industries
Tyson Foods

SOURCES: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  / Be Pro Be Proud  /  PayScale  / Projections Managing Partnership  /  Danny Hopkins

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