Entering the machining trade in Key West, FL, typically begins with specialized education and training, such as apprenticeship programs that last 4-5 years, combining hands-on experience with classroom instruction. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with an average salary of $42,147 annually, and projects little or no change in employment from 2023 to 2033. Apprenticeships in Key West offer a pathway to a rewarding career, with potential earnings for experienced machinists exceeding $80,640 per year, particularly in specialized sectors like aerospace and defense.
