Tool and Die Maker

Tool & Die Makers are highly skilled machinists who design, make, and repair cutting tools, dies and molds using CNC machines and CAD/CAM software – from furniture to cell phones and aircraft parts.

SELECT AN APPRENTICESHIP LOCATION

AJAC

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Required Qualifications
  • 17 years of age
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Physically able
  • Completion of college Math and English classes or assessment test such as:
                - Compass Test     
                - World of Work Inventory
                - ASSET Test
Step 2: Gain Employment
Acquire Skills and Get Hired
  • Option 1: Attend 10-week pre-apprenticeship Manufacturing Academy
                  - then continue with Option 2 or 3
  • Option 2: Start a certification or degree program
                  - then continue with Option 3
Step 3: Apply
Apply
  • Once employed by a Participating Employer, ask employer to recommend you for apprenticeship
  • Sign an Apprenticeship Agreement with AJAC
Step 4: Begin Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship

  • 10,000 hours / 5 years on-the-job training
  • Minimum of 144 hours of education each year. Typically one night per week at local community or technical college

Wages

  • Start at 60% of current Journey-Level rate.
  • Gain 5% pay increase after every 1,000 hours of on-the-job training (approx. 6 months) plus required schooling.
  • Full 100% journeyperson’s pay after completing the program.

Estimated Starting Hourly Base Rate

   $19.70 + Benefits
    * Based on statewide average           

G.I. Bill® Housing Allowance

  • Usage is optional
  • Housing allowance can be found using the GI Bill® Comparison Tool
  • Search School Name:  AEROSPACE JOINT APPRENTICESHIP COMMITTEE

Calculate Starting Pay With GI Bill ®

Estimated Wage Calculator

All calculations based on a 120 hours/month work schedule.[CP_CALCULATED_FIELDS id="6"]

*Contact union local for updated wage information.

GI Bill Usage Breakdown:
100% - 1-6 months
80% - 6-12 months
60% - 12-18 months
40% - 18-24 months
20% - 24-30 months
*Usage Optional
Eligible veterans in an approved Apprenticeship Program can use their GI Bill® benefit and receive a tax-free stipend on a monthly basis. The Post 9/11 GI Bill® stipend is the equivalent of the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) of an E-5 with dependents (based on the zip code of the training facility) which is paid addition to normal wages. Refer to the chart below to understand how Post 9/11 GI Bill® benefits are paid, or consult the VA website www.benefits.va.gov/gibill (Link) to see how other VA chapters are paid for Apprenticeship Training.