What is a Precision Metal Fabricator?

A precision metal fabricator cuts, bends, forms and assembles precise metal parts. Like piecing together a puzzle, the fabricator produces specialized components at very high tolerances, for products such as medical devices and aerospace parts.

Precision Metal Fabricators:

• Read blue print drawings to know how to correctly cut, bend, form and assemble the metal part
• Calculate dimensions and tolerances using math and instruments such as micrometers and calipers
• Fabricate the part using machine tools such as punch press, press brakes, saws, bending and forming tools, shapers or grinders
• Set up and program high-tech cutting machines to make the part
• Measure, examine and test completed parts to ensure it matches the specifications

Related: Precision Metal Fabricator Program Outline

Benefits:

A long-term career with a good salary, job advancement opportunities and the chance to work with your hands and cutting edge technology.

Become a Precision Metal Fabricator through AJAC’s apprenticeship program. Get paid while learning on the job and attend classes only one night a week! To find out how you can become an apprentice and launch your career in aerospace or manufacturing, visit AJAC’s Get Started Section.

On-the-Job Training Competencies:

PMF Apprentices Take the Following Classes:

• Engineering Drawings – Interpretation, basic drafting and creation of original drawings for competent utilization
• Shop Math – Applied math for the manufacturing of metal products understanding tools such as micrometers, calipers protractors and more
• Inspection/QA – Common industry measuring practices to include basic hand instruments through advanced measuring equipment
• Intro to Precision Metal Fab (PMF) – Covering all of metal fabrication major tools and skill sets. Leaning processes from conception through production, utilizing a Tool Box project that will carry over through the next 3 classes (Punch Press, Press Brake, Laser Cutter, Waterjets, Saws, Shapers, Grinders and more)
• PMF 1 – Punch Press, Deburr and Shears, course covers the set-up and operations of CNC controlled machines to include reading & writing basic G&M code
• PMF 2 – Press Brake & Assembly, course covers safe operation, and angle & depth mode, additionally focus on First Article Inspection and assembly
• Metallurgy & Welding – Understanding material properties and forming followed by basic welding completing the Tool Box project
• CAD/CAM – Hands-on training in computer aided design and manufacturing from 3D parametric solid modeling in SolidWorks through Mastercam programming