Entering the machining trade in Blackfoot, ID, typically begins with specialized education and training, often through apprenticeships, postsecondary education, or on-the-job training. Apprenticeships, which last about four to five years, combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to gain essential skills such as CNC programming and blueprint reading. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Blackfoot, ID, machinists can expect to earn an average wage of $565 per week, with an annual overtime average of $29,360. Educational pathways such as community colleges and technical schools, along with apprenticeship programs, provide aspiring machinists with the necessary skills and credentials, leading to a career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $80,640 annually for experienced professionals.
