21 Learning Objec tives After reading this chapter, you should be able to: ■ Describe the modern CNC environment. ■ Explain the impact of manufacturing on gross domestic product (GDP). ■ List some of the industries supported by manufacturing. ■ Give examples of the multiple career paths in CNC machining. ■ Identify and prepare job application materials. ■ Describe desirable traits for succeeding in the workplace. ■ List common soft skills. ■ Describe the technical skills needed to compete in manufacturing. ■ Discuss apprenticeships. ■ Explain the benefits of on-the-job training. ■ Outline the certification processes of NIMS, SME, and NTMA. Key Terms aerospace apprenticeship attitude CNC laser CNC programmer computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines ethical behavior gross domestic product (GDP) journeyperson leadership machine operator machine setup operator manufacturing engineer mechanical engineer micromachining National Tooling and Manufacturing Association (NTMA) negotiation NIMS nonverbal communication on-the-job training (OJT) punctual quality control (QC) inspector reference résumé self-motivation sheet metal fabrication Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) soft skills team verbal communication water jet Chap t er Ou t line 2.1 The Modern CNC Environment 2.2 Supplied Industries 2.2.1 Automotive Industry 2.2.2 Medical Technology 2.2.3 Aerospace Applications 2.2.4 Defense 2.2.5 Computing and Technology 2.2.6 Woodworking 2.2.7 Sheet Metal Fabrication 2.3 Careers in CNC Manufacturing 2.3.1 CNC Machine Operator 2.3.2 CNC Machine Setup Operator 2.3.3 CNC Programmer 2.3.4 QC Inspector 2.3.5 Engineer 2.3.6 Manager 2.3.7 Trainer 2.4 Applying for a Position 2.4.1 Your Résumé 2.4.2 Letter of Application 2.4.3 Job Application Forms 2.4.4 The Job Interview 2.5 Succeeding in the Workplace 2.5.1 Health and Hygiene 2.5.2 Work Habits 2.5.3 Time Management 2.5.4 Attitude on the Job 2.5.5 Professional Behavior 2.5.6 Decision-Making and Problem-Solving 2.5.7 Communication Skills 2.5.8 Ethical Workplace Behavior 2.5.9 Interpersonal Skills 2.5.10 Staying Safety Conscious 2.6 Technical Training 2.6.1 Apprenticeships 2.6.2 On-the-Job Training 2.6.3 NIMS 2.6.4 Society of Manufacturing Engineers 2.6.5 National Tooling and Manufacturing Association 2.6.6 Education