Chapter 2 Careers in Machining Technology 21
This means that occupational opportunities are cre-
ated that were not previously available. One study
reported that the average graduate will be employed
in at least fi ve different jobs in his or her lifetime,
and three of them do not even exist yet!
2.2.1 Obtaining Information on
Machining Occupations
There are many sources of occupational infor-
mation. The most accessible for today’s students
are the school’s career center, technical education
instructors, and the Internet.
State employment services are also excellent
sources for getting information on local and state
employment opportunities, as are the various trade
unions concerned with the metalworking trades.
The fi eld and regional offi ces of the Offi ce of
Apprenticeship of the United States Department
of Labor may also be contacted for information on
apprenticeship programs in your area. The Occupa-
tional Outlook Handbook, available on the US Depart-
ment of Labor’s website and in published formats,
describes many specifi c job categories and estimates
the future demand for workers in each occupation.
Information on technical occupations is also
available from community colleges. Many of them
offer associate’s degrees in technical areas.
2.2.2 Traits Employers Look for in an
Employee
Industry is always on the lookout for bright peo-
ple who are not afraid to work and assume respon-
sibility. Employers also look for the following traits
in an employee, often referring to scholastic records,
references, and previous employers to obtain the
necessary information:
• Skills and knowledge. Has the technical
skills and knowledge necessary for an entry
position. Does work neatly and accurately.
Pays attention to details.
• Integrity and honesty. This trait is on the
same level of importance as technical skills
and knowledge.
• Comprehension. Is able to understand oral
and written instructions and to read and
interpret prints.
• Dependability. Has a good attendance and
punctuality record in class and at former jobs.
• Teamwork. Shows the ability to work well
with peers and supervisors.
• Communication. Is able to communicate
ideas and suggestions orally and in writing.
• Self-confi dence. Takes pride in work and
will not knowingly turn out inferior or sub-
standard material.
• Accountability. Is able to assume responsibil-
ity and be accountable for his or her actions.
• Initiative. Volunteers ideas. Demonstrates
leadership.
• Grooming and dress. Presents a positive per-
sonal appearance.
2.2.3 Factors for Rejection for
Employment
There are many factors and traits that can cause
a person to be rejected for employment. They include
the following:
• Poor personal appearance.
• Poor scholastic performance.
• Poor attendance record.
• Lack of maturity.
• Lack of interest or enthusiasm for the job
being sought.
• Knowing little or nothing about the company
where employment is sought.
• Unrealistic salary demands.
• Lack of ability to communicate.
2.3 How to Get a Job
Securing a job is a very important task. To be
successful, you will have to spend as much time
looking for this position as you would working at a
regular job. There are several other things that you
can do to make this task easier.
You will have to decide what type of work you
would like to do. Most schools and state employ-
ment services administer tests that will help you
determine the areas of employment where you will
have a good chance of succeeding.
Answering the following questions will give
you additional help:
• What can I do with some degree of success?
• What have I done that others have com-
mended me for doing well?
• What are the things I really like to do?
• What are the things I do not like to do?