Entering the machining trade in Gillette, WY typically begins with specialized training, which can be pursued through apprenticeship programs, community colleges, or on-the-job training. Apprenticeships, which last about four to five years, combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Gillette, WY, machinists earn an average of $1,392 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $108,000 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.
