Entering the machining trade in Waco, TX, typically begins with specialized training, which can be pursued through apprenticeships, community colleges, or technical schools. This training combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to develop essential skills in CNC programming, blueprint reading, and machine tool operation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Waco, TX, machinists can expect to earn an average of $1,000 per week, with experienced professionals often surpassing $100,000 annually. The demand for skilled machinists remains steady, with approximately 35,400 job openings projected each year, driven by the need to replace retiring workers and the growth of advanced manufacturing technologies.
