Watch clips from "How It's Made" to see how objects like artificial limbs, nails, footballs, mustard, and more are made. Choose a few to watch--which one surprised you most?

Watch how the objects all around us are made.

Watch a video to learn what CNC (computer numerical control) machining is and how it works. Is this something you're interested in working with?

Learn about CNC machining.

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.

Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.

Realistic

Third Interest High-Point

Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.

Investigative

Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

Conventional

Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Enterprising

Second Interest High-Point

Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

Artistic

Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

Social

First Interest High-Point

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Model Makers and Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic

Production Occupations

Metal Workers and Plastic Workers

Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.

Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.

Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.

Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.

Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.

Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.

Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.

Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.

Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.

Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.

Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts.

Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines.

Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications.

Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.

Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components.

Audio-oscillators

Bandsaws

Benchtop drill presses

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Overview

Career

What Model Makers, Metal and Plastic Do

Other Job Titles Model Makers, Metal and Plastic May Have

Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Overview

Career

What Model Makers, Metal and Plastic Do

Other Job Titles Model Makers, Metal and Plastic May Have

Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

Education

Level of Education Attained by Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Majors Related to Career

Related Careers

Related Leaders