NewsCenter Contact Us

Consider a Career in Advanced Manufacturing

At a Glance

With an estimated 34,590 new job opportunities each year in California, and only about 5,868 graduates to fill them, manufacturing and product development remains a promising sector for those who like to work with their minds and hands. High-tech manufacturing continues to grow, especially in the areas of 3-D printing, and high-speed, computerized numerical control machining. A degree or certificate from your local community college can catapult you into your new career.

Types of Careers

  • CNC Programmer
  • Machine Technician
  • Industrial Electrician
  • Cabinetmakers & Bench Carpenter
  • Tool & Die Maker
  • Power Plant Operator
  • Fabric & Apparel Pattern Maker
  • Certified Welder

Salary Snapshot

  • Welder, Cutters, Solders, and Brazers:
    $41,447
  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering
    Technicians: $65,521
  • Electrical and Electronics Repairers,
    Commercial and Industrial Equipment:
    $66,454
  • Industrial Engineering Technicians:
    $62,753
  • Occupational Health and Safety
    Specialists: $80,213
  • CNC Machine Tool Pragrammers, Metal
    and Plastic: $62,479

Annual Wages are based on 2,80 work hours per year.

Industry Sector Pathways

  • CAD/CAM, Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
  • Industrial Automation, Supply Chain Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Instrumentation Technology
  • Machine Technology, Machine Operator, Basic/Conventional Machining, Tool & Die
  • Operations and Production Management
  • Quality Assurance
  • Welding, SMAW, GTAW, FCAW, Stick, TIG
Fun Fact

Manufacturing categories with the largest growth include team assemblers, machinists, welders, tool and die makers, and mechanical and other engineers.

Employers in this sector look for technicians who are at ease in the mechanical world and able to apply scientific and technical principles to manufacturing processes. Students of manufacturing and product development learn about manufacturing processes and systems, and can follow a wide variety of paths, including graphic design production, machine tooling and forming, welding and materials joining, and product innovation and design.

Opportunities for advancement are plentiful as technological advancements make higher-skill jobs in basic research and technology development, product and process engineering and design, operations and maintenance, transportation, testing, and lab work more prevalent.
Previous Next

Consider a Career in Advanced Manufacturing 

Training is available at the following colleges:

Engineering Technology, General

Electronics and Electric Technology

Manufacturing and Industrial Technology

Welding Technology