Becoming a machinist in Hickory, NC typically starts with a combination of formal education and on-the-job training, often through apprenticeships that last about four to five years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Hickory, the average weekly wage for machinists is approximately $486.50, with experienced professionals earning up to $80,640 annually. Apprenticeships in the region offer a pathway to a rewarding career with strong earning potential, supported by local technical schools and industry organizations that provide training and certification opportunities.
