Career Development Grid

Forging is a manufacturing process that involves shaping metal or plastic by applying heat and pressure to it. Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the machines that are used in the forging process. These professionals work in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction.
Education and Training Requirements:
To become a Forging Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a technical or vocational degree in a related field. On-the-job training is also provided to help workers gain the necessary skills and knowledge to operate the machines and equipment used in the forging process.
Typical Job Duties and Responsibilities:
The typical job duties and responsibilities of a Forging Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender include:
– Setting up and operating forging machines and equipment
– Reading and interpreting blueprints and schematics
– Monitoring the forging process to ensure quality and accuracy
– Inspecting finished products for defects and ensuring they meet specifications
– Performing routine maintenance on machines and equipment
– Troubleshooting and resolving issues with machines and equipment
– Following safety protocols and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries
Earning Potential:
The earning potential for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders varies depending on experience, location, and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for these professionals in the United States is $38,580. In the short term, entry-level workers can expect to earn around $25,000 to $30,000 per year, while experienced workers can earn upwards of $50,000 per year.
Opportunities for Career Advancement:
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders can advance their careers by gaining experience and taking on more responsibilities, such as supervisory roles. They can also pursue additional education and training to become specialized in a particular area of forging or to become a machinist.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them:
One of the biggest challenges facing Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders is the physical demands of the job, which can include standing for long periods of time, working in hot environments, and lifting heavy objects. To overcome these challenges, workers should maintain good physical fitness, take frequent breaks, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Gaining Experience and Building a Network:
To gain experience and build a network in the forging industry, workers can participate in apprentices

Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer candidates with post-secondary training in manufacturing or a related field. On-the-job training is also common for this occupation.
During training, individuals learn how to set up, operate, and maintain forging machines. They also learn how to inspect finished products to ensure quality and make necessary adjustments to the machinery.
Some employers may require certification in specific types of forging machines or processes. Certification can be obtained through industry organizations or vocational schools.

Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic are responsible for operating and maintaining machines that shape and form metal or plastic products. Some of their typical job duties and responsibilities include:
1. Setting up and adjusting forging machines: They are responsible for setting up and adjusting forging machines to ensure that they are operating correctly.
2. Operating forging machines: They operate forging machines to shape and form metal or plastic products according to specifications.
3. Monitoring the production process: They monitor the production process to ensure that it is running smoothly and that products are being produced according to quality standards.
4. Inspecting finished products: They inspect finished products to ensure that they meet quality standards and specifications.
5. Maintaining machines: They are responsible for maintaining forging machines by cleaning and oiling them, replacing worn or damaged parts, and performing routine maintenance.
6. Troubleshooting problems: They troubleshoot problems with machines and products, identifying the cause of the problem and taking corrective action.
7. Following safety procedures: They follow safety procedures to ensure that they and their coworkers remain safe while operating machines.
8. Keeping records: They keep records of production output, machine maintenance, and quality control data.
Overall, Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic are responsible for operating and maintaining machines that shape and form metal or plastic products, ensuring that they are producing high-quality products efficiently and safely.

The earning potential for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic can vary depending on a number of factors such as the level of experience, location, and industry.
In the short term, entry-level positions may offer an hourly wage of around $12-$15 per hour. However, with experience and skill development, individuals in this career can earn a higher hourly wage ranging from $18-$25 per hour.
In the long term, experienced Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic can earn an annual salary of $50,000-$70,000 or more depending on their level of expertise, industry, and location. Those who advance to supervisory or management roles may earn even higher salaries.
Overall, the earning potential in this career can be lucrative for those who are dedicated to developing their skills and advancing in their careers.

The opportunities for career advancement in the field of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic may include:
1. Senior Operator: With experience and expertise, a Forging Machine Operator can advance to a senior operator role, where they oversee and train new operators, troubleshoot complex issues, and manage production schedules.
2. Quality Control Inspector: A Forging Machine Operator can advance to a quality control inspector role, where they inspect finished products to ensure they meet industry standards and specifications.
3. Team Leader/Supervisor: With strong leadership skills and experience, a Forging Machine Operator can advance to a team leader or supervisor role, where they manage a team of operators and oversee the production process.
4. Maintenance Technician: A Forging Machine Operator can transition into a maintenance technician role, where they maintain and repair the forging machines and other equipment used in the production process.
5. Engineering: With additional education and training, a Forging Machine Operator can pursue a career in engineering, where they design and develop new forging machines and processes.
6. Management: With a combination of experience and education, a Forging Machine Operator can advance to a management role, where they oversee all aspects of production, including scheduling, budgeting, and quality control.

Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic, work in the manufacturing industry. Their primary responsibility is to operate and maintain forging machines that shape metal or plastic into a desired form. Some of the biggest challenges facing people in this career include:
1. Physical Demands: This job requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in a noisy and hot environment. Workers in this field are also exposed to hazards such as burns and cuts. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to maintain physical fitness, wear proper protective gear, and follow safety protocols.
2. Technical Skills: Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders need to have good mechanical skills and be able to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals. They must also be able to troubleshoot problems and perform routine maintenance on the machines. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to gain technical knowledge through training and hands-on experience.
3. Attention to Detail: This job requires a high level of attention to detail to ensure that the finished product meets the required specifications. Workers must be able to identify defects and make adjustments to the machines to correct them. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to develop good observation skills and pay close attention to details.
4. Time Management: Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders work under tight deadlines and must be able to manage their time efficiently. They must also be able to prioritize tasks and work effectively under pressure. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to develop good time management skills and be able to work efficiently without compromising quality.
Overall, to succeed in this career, one must be physically fit, have technical skills, pay attention to detail, and manage time effectively. Gaining experience and knowledge through training and hands-on experience is also crucial.

Here are some ways to gain experience and build a network in the field of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic:
1. Look for apprenticeship programs: Many companies offer apprenticeship programs that allow you to learn the trade while working under the guidance of experienced professionals. This is a great way to gain hands-on experience and build a network of contacts in the industry.
2. Attend trade shows and industry events: Attending trade shows and industry events is a great way to meet people in the industry and learn about the latest trends and technologies. You can also attend workshops and seminars to gain knowledge and skills that will help you in your career.
3. Join professional associations: Joining professional associations such as the Forging Industry Association (FIA) can help you build a network of contacts in the industry and stay up-to-date with the latest developments. These associations often offer training programs and other resources to help you develop your skills.
4. Volunteer for internships or work experience: Many companies offer internships or work experience programs that allow you to gain practical experience in the field. This is a great way to build your skills and make contacts in the industry.
5. Use social media: Social media platforms like LinkedIn can be a great way to connect with people in the industry and build your network. You can join groups and participate in discussions to learn more about the field and make new contacts.

The job prospects for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic are currently stable, with a moderate demand for workers in this field. However, this demand may vary depending on the industry and location.
In the future, there may be some changes in the job prospects for this career. With the increasing use of automation and robotics in manufacturing, there may be a shift towards more automated processes, which could potentially reduce the demand for workers in this field. On the other hand, there may still be a need for skilled workers who can operate and maintain these machines.
Additionally, the demand for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic may also be influenced by changes in the manufacturing industry as a whole. For example, if there is a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing practices, there may be a greater demand for workers who are knowledgeable in these areas.
Overall, while the job prospects for this career are currently stable, it is important for individuals in this field to stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in technology to remain competitive in the job market.

The most important skills and qualities someone needs to succeed as a Forging Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender, Metal and Plastic include:
1. Technical skills: A thorough understanding of the forging process, materials, and equipment is essential. Operators must have the ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
2. Physical stamina: The job requires a lot of physical labor, including standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and operating machinery. A high level of physical fitness is necessary to perform the job safely and efficiently.
3. Attention to detail: Forging requires a high degree of precision and accuracy. Operators must be able to pay close attention to small details and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the finished product meets specifications.
4. Problem-solving skills: When problems arise during the forging process, operators must be able to quickly identify the issue and develop a solution to keep production moving forward.
5. Communication skills: Effective communication is essential when working in a team environment. Operators must be able to communicate clearly with other team members, supervisors, and customers.
6. Safety awareness: Operators must be aware of potential hazards associated with the job and take appropriate safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.
7. Adaptability: The forging process can be unpredictable, and operators must be able to adapt to changes in production schedules, materials, and equipment.

Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic, are in demand in several sectors or industries, including:
1. Manufacturing: This is the primary industry where Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic, are in demand. They work in manufacturing plants that produce a variety of metal and plastic products, including automotive parts, aerospace components, and construction materials.
2. Automotive: The automotive industry is a significant employer of Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic. They work in the production of engine parts, transmission components, and other automotive parts.
3. Aerospace: Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic, are also in demand in the aerospace industry. They work in the production of aircraft components, such as landing gear, engine parts, and structural components.
4. Construction: The construction industry also employs Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic. They work in the production of construction materials, such as metal beams, pipes, and fittings.
5. Defense: The defense industry is another sector where Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic, are in demand. They work in the production of military equipment, such as tanks, armored vehicles, and weapons.

Misconception: One common misconception about forging machine setters, operators, and tenders is that it is a low-skilled job that does not require any education or training.
Reality: In reality, forging machine operators require specialized training and skills to operate complex machinery and produce high-quality metal or plastic parts. They must have knowledge of metallurgy, mathematics, and computer programming. Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship.
Misconception: Another misconception is that forging machine operators work in dirty and dangerous environments.
Reality: While it is true that forging machine operators work with heavy machinery and high temperatures, modern forging facilities have safety measures in place to ensure the safety of workers. Workers are required to wear protective gear, and the environment is often monitored for safety hazards. Additionally, many forging facilities are clean and well-maintained, with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
Misconception: Some people may also think that forging machine operators have limited career growth opportunities.
Reality: In reality, forging machine operators can advance to higher positions such as supervisors, quality control inspectors, or even plant managers. With additional education and training, they can also pursue careers in engineering, design, or research and development. The demand for skilled forging machine operators is high, and the industry is constantly evolving, providing opportunities for growth and development.