Entering the machining trade in Middlesborough, KY, typically begins with specialized education and training, often through apprenticeships that combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships in the region last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Middlesborough, KY, machinists can expect to earn competitive wages, with experienced professionals often surpassing $108,000 annually. Educational pathways include apprenticeship programs, postsecondary education at local technical colleges, and on-the-job training, all of which are supported by local unions and trade schools.
