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Becoming a Mechanical Engineer – Fitter Machinist

Jan 12, in Hints & Tips

A fitter machinist is a person that is involved in planning, designing and overseeing the development, installation, operation as well as maintenance of machinery. Further, a machinist may be involved in examining specifications of drawings in order to find out the kind of materials and equipment that will be required for a given job. The fitter machinist may also be required to set up and adjust metalworking machines and equipment in addition to operating machines so as to produce parts of tools.

For you to become a successful mechanical engineer, you need to;

  • Be interested in technical work
  • Be physically fit
  • Be strong enough so that you are able to handle tools and machines
  • Have good  hand-eye coordination because you will be required to use this a lot
  • Be able to work independently and as part of a team
  • Be able to pay great attention to detail

As a mechanical engineer you will often be required to work in workshops or in production areas that are usually hot, dusty as well as noisy. You may spend the better part of your day standing and this explains why you need to be physically fit. Also, as a fitter machinist you need to wear protective clothing so as to ensure that you are safe. This will largely depend on the kind of environment that you will be working in. It is also necessary that you are aware of the safety regulations that will guide your work.

If you have just left school, you can still realise your dream of becoming a fitter machinist by starting off as an apprentice in which case you will be paid as you work and train. You also have the choice of taking your apprenticeship on a part time or on a full time basis.

If you are interested in becoming a fitter, this is a great career choice. You will be responsible for installation, maintenance as well as repair of machines and equipment and this could be worth thousands of dollars.