Entering the machining trade in Gallup, NM, typically begins with specialized education and training, often through apprenticeship programs or postsecondary education. These programs, which can last 4-5 years, combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction, teaching essential skills such as CNC programming and blueprint reading. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists employed across the United States, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Gallup, NM, machinists can expect to earn competitive wages, with experienced professionals often surpassing $80,640 annually. The demand for skilled machinists remains strong, with approximately 35,400 job openings projected each year, driven by the need to replace retiring workers and the growth of advanced manufacturing technologies.
