Entering the machining trade in Stockton, CA, 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 Stockton, machinists can expect to earn competitive wages, with experienced professionals often surpassing $80,000 annually. Trade schools, technical colleges, and apprenticeship programs offer pathways to this rewarding career, which is supported by a growing demand for skilled professionals in the manufacturing sector.
