Entering the machining trade in Alexandria, LA, typically begins with specialized education and training, often through apprenticeships that combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction. These apprenticeships, which last about four to five years, provide essential skills such as CNC programming and blueprint reading. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists in the U.S., with an average salary of $42,147 annually. In Alexandria, LA, machinists earn an average wage of $557 per week, with experienced professionals potentially earning over $80,000 annually. Training programs and apprenticeships, supported by organizations like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills, offer pathways to a rewarding career with strong earning potential.
