DOCUMENT RESUME

ED 198 329 CE 028 018 TITLE Exploring Careers. Industrial Production Occupations. INSTITUTION Bureau of Labor Statistics (DOL), Washington, D.C. REPORT NO BLS-Bull-2001-2 PUB DATE 79 NOTE 55p.: Photographs will not reproduce well. For related documents see CE 028 017-031. AVAILABLE FROM Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. EDRS PRICE MF01/PC03 Plus Postage. DESCRIPTORS *Assembly (): Career Awareness: Career Choice: *Career Exploration: Educational Needs: Education Work Relationship: Employment Qualifications: Junior High Schools: Learning Activities: *: *Manufacturing Industry: Metal Working: *Occupational Information: Occupations: Resource Materials: Self Evaluation (Individuals) : Work Attitudes IDENTIFIERS Foundry Occupations: Industrial Production Occupations: Printing and Publishing Occupations ABSTRACT "Exploring Careers" is a career education resource program, presented in fifteen separate booklets, for junior high school-age students. It provides information a'Iout the world of work and offers its readers a way of learning about themselves and relating that information to career choices. The publications aim to build career awareness by means of occupational narratives, evaluative questions, activities, and career games presented in fourteen occupational clusters. This second of the fifteen booklets, "Industrial Production Occupations," presents an overview of occupations which involve factory production. Narrative accounts focus on a bench assembler, a , and a photocomposit or, explaining their training needs and what they do on the job. An exploring section relates the skills needed for these occupations to students' personal characteristics, and suggests activities such as factory trips and reports. A Job Facts section explains nature and places of work, training and qualifications, and other information for thirty-three industrial and production occupations, grouped in occupational clusters of foundry, , printing, and other industrial production and related occupations. ("Exploring Careers" is also available as a single volume of fifteen chapters.) (KC)

*********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. 41***********************************************4********************** Exploring Industrial Production Careers Occupations

U.S. Department of Labor Ray Marshall, Secretary Bureau of Labor Statistics Janet L. Norwood, Commissioner 1979

Bulletin 2001-2

U S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. EDUCATION &WELFARE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION

THIS DOCUMENT HASBEEN REPRO- DUCED EXACTLY AS RECEIVEDFROM THE PERSON OR ORGANIZATIONORIGIN- ATING IT POINTS OF VIEWOR OPINIONS STATED DO NOT NECESSARILYREPRE- SENT OFFICIAL NATIONAL INSTITUTEOF EDUCATION POSITION OR POLICY

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office Washington. D.C. 20402 Exploring Careers is available either as a single volume of 15 chapters or as separate chapters, as follows: The World of Work and You Industrial Production Occupations Office Occupations Service Occupations Education Occupations Sales Occupations Construction Occupations Transportation Occupations Scientific and Technical Occupations Mechanics and Repairers Health Occupations Social Scientists Social Service Occupations Performing Arts, Design, and Communications Occupations Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Occupations Photograph Credits

Photography for Exploring Careers was directed by Max zalez; The Honorable Daniel K. Inouye; andDavid L. Carey of the Bureau of Labor Statistks,Division of Weitzer. Occupational Outlook. Members of the Division'sstaff who assisted with obtaining and editingphotographs Membership groups. Air Transportation Association of were Anne Kahl, Kathy Wilson, Chester Curtis Levine, A ..nerica; American Iron and Steel Institute; American and Gloria D. Blue. Contributing photographerswere Petroleum Institute; Associated General Contractors of Al Whitley of Whitley Associates, and HarrisonE. Allen, America; Association of American Railroads; Chamber Robert Donaldson, and Fleming P. Roseof the U.S. of Commerce of the U.S.A.; International Associationof Department of Labor, Division of GraphicServices. The Machinists and Aerospace Workers; Motor Vehicle Bureau gratefully acknowledges the cooperationof the Manufacturers Association of the U.S., Inc.; National many government and private sources that either con- Education Association; and United Brotherhoodof Car- tributed photographs or made their facilitiesavailable to penters and Joiners of America. photographers. Depiction of companyor trade names in no way constitutes endorsement by the Department of Labor. Some photographsmay not be free of every Industry and business. Allen-Mitchell and Co.; American possible safety or health hazard. Telephone and Telegraph Co.; Arlington HobbyCraf- ters; Babcock and Wilcox Co.; Badger America Inc.; The Government Sources Big Cheese; Blake Constru tion Co.; Bob PeckChevro- let; Carl T. Jones Associa its; Chase ManhattanBank; ilvieral. Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute;Board of Chessie System; Cycles Del Mercado Shell Service Thvernors of the Federal Reserve System;Bureau of Center; Everhart Jewelers; General Truck Sales; The Prisons; Department of Agriculture;Department of Hecht Co.; Hyatt Regency of Washington; Heritage Health, Education, and Welfare; Departmentof the In- Exxon Servicenter; International Business Machines terior; Federal Aviation Administration;Government Corp.; Mayflower Hotel; Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner Printing Office; National Aeronautics andSpace Admin- and Smith, Inc.; Navy Marshall and Gordon;Nike of istration; National Institute of Mental Health; National Georgetown; Riggs National Bank; SoutheastAuto Sup- Park Service; Smithsonian Institution; Tennessee Valley ply; State Farm Insurance Companies; TexacoInc.; Authority; and U.S. Postal Service. WGMS Broadcasting Co.; Westinghouse ElectricCorp.; and Westvaco Corp. State and local. City of San Antonio; City of San Diego; District of ColumbiaDepartment of Human Re- Publications. Arlington News; Co-ed Magazine;Law En- sources, Police Department; Fairfax County (Va.)Pub- forcement Communications; The New PrinceGeorge's lic Schools, Public Libraries; Maryland NationalCapital Post, and The Washington Post. Park and Planning Commission; MontgomeryCounty Public Schools (Md.); University of Texas HealthSci- Other. Alexandria Archaeology Research Center(Va.); ence Center at San Antonio; and Washingtcn Metropol- American National Red Cross; Catholic Charitiesof the itan Area Transit Authority. Archdiocese of Washington; Folger ShakespeareLi- brary; Forsyth County Heart Association (N.C.);George Washington University Hospital; Model CitiesSenior Private Sources Center (D.C.); St. Columba's Episcopal Church(D.C.); St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church (D.C.);United Individuals. Robert Devlin; Robert Miller; The Honora- Way of America; Visiting Nurse Associationof Wash- ble Eligio de la Garza; The Honorable Henry B. Gon- ington, D.C.; and Washington Hospital Center(D.C.).

11 Preface ...{

Exploring Careers is a career education resource for youngsters of junior high school age. It provides the kind of information about the world of work thatyoung people need to prepare for a well-informed career choice. At thesame time, it offers readers a way of learning more about themselves. The publication aimsto build career awareness by means of occupational narratives, evaluative questions, activities, and career games presented in 14 occupational clusters. Exploring Careers emphasizes what people do on the job and how they feel about it and stresses the importance of "knowing yourself" when considering a career. It is designed foruse in middle school/junior high classrooms, career resource centers, and youthprograms run by community, religious, and business organizations. This is 1 of 15 chapters. A list of all the chapter titles appears inside the front cover. Exploring Careers was prepared in the Bureau's Division of Occupational Outlook under the supervision of Russell B. Flanders and Neal H. Rosenthal. Max L. Carey provided general direction. Anne Kahl supervised the planning and preparation of the publication. Members of the Division's staff who contributed sect gunswere Lisa S. Dillich, David B. Herst, H. Philip Howard, Chester Curtis Levine Thomas Nardone, Debra E. Rothstein, and Kathy Wilson. Gloria D. Blue, Brenc.12, :Marshall, and Beverly A. Williams assisted. The Bureau gratefully acknowledges the cooperation of all the workers who agreed to be interviewed and photographed, the teachers and students who field testeda sample chapter, and all who shared their ideas with BLS. Many people in the counseling community offered encouragement and support. Special thanks for her generous assistance go to Cathy Cockrill, Career Education Curriculum Specialist, Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax, Virginia. Although they are based on interviews with actual workers, the occupational narratives are largely fictitious. Material in this publication other than photographs is in the public domain and may be reproduced without the permission of the Federal Government. Please credit the Bureau of Labor Statistics and cite Exploring Careers, Bulletin 2001.

iii Contents

Page

Industrial production occupations 1 Bench assembler 13 Machinist 18 Photocompositor 24 Job facts 31 Exploring Industrial Production Careers Occupations

1

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Industrial production workers deal with things more than they do withpeople or ideas.

7 1 Exploring Careers

Annie Bergdahl walked down the corridor, wide-eyed. enjoyed the film about an automobile assembly line. It From the moment she first walked through the massive fascinated her to watch the metal frames grow, almost brass doors of the main entrance, the Museum of Science magically, into complete cars as they moved along. And and Industry held her in a spell. The old airplanes she couldn't believe how many workersassemblers, Mr. hanging from the ceiling, the mummies, the space cap- Borden had called themit took to build a car. Each suleseveryWhere she turned, Annie found wonderful assembler performed a single task over and over while things to explore. She wanted to see it all, read every the seemingly endless parade of unfinished automobiles word, push every button. %it the museum was so big! marched on. As the engines glided down from above, Most of the other youngsters on the field trip also two or three workers would bolt each one to a frame. wanted to run off and spend 'Fiore time at some exhibit Others attached the seats; still others added doors or side they had spotted. But Mr. Borden, their teacher at Mid- panels or wheels or a hood, over and over. Mr. Borden dlesex Junior High, kept them together in a group. There had said that not all assemblers work on an assembly were certain exhibits he wanted them to see, exhibits that line. Many work at benches or on shop floors and set should liven up the unit they were doing right now in his their own pace. Nevertheless, Annie had decided that social studies class. assembly work wasn't her cup of tea. The unit on industry had begun last week, and Mr. Now, at the museum, she walked with the group Borden was teaching the class how factories produce toward a tall archway crowned with a large sign in shiny goads. Some of the students were obviously bored. But brass letters: HALL OF INDUSTRY. Mr. Borden led not all of them ... and certainly not Annie Annie had the students through the archway into a large room. All

4

, :?& .07

It takes many assemblers, each performing a different task, to produce an automobile. Industrial Production Occupations

America's industrial plants produce everything from paper clips to rocket ships. This inspector looks carefully at every television set. around them they saw exhibits and more doorways. One by one, the children began to name things made Ushering the group to one side of the room, Mr. Borden in factories: Cars and trucks, trains and airplanes, books sat them on the carpet and introduced them to a casually and newspapers, pencils and pens, refrigerators and ra- dressed young man who awaited them there. dios, television sets and telephones, window glass and "This is Mr. Novacello, class. He works here at the wallpaper, lampshades and lightbulbs, canned soups and museum, and he's going to tell us about the exhibits in candybars. this hall. Now, what are we studying in class these "The list is quite long, as you can see," said Mr. days?" Novacello. "Industrial plants produce everything from "Industrial production!" shouted half the group in paper clips to rocket ships. And they produce these unison. things much more quickly, efficiently, and cheaply than "Right!" said Mr. Borden. "And who can tell me what was possible years ago. Today, almost every American that means?" A sudden attack of shyness paralyzed the family has a TV or an automobile or a refrigerator. group. There was silence until Annie raised her hand. Without modern industrial production, all these things "Production means making things. Industrial produc- would have to be built by hand, and most of us could tion means making things in factories and plants." never afford them. Modern industry makes our lifestyle "Very good, Annie," said Mr. Borden, smiling. "Now, possible, and so we should know something about it. let's let Mr. Novacello tell us more about it and demon- "There's another reason, too. All those products didn't strate how some things are made." appear by magic. They were made by millions of workers Mr. Novacello flashed a smile and greeted the group. in a great variety of jobs. When you start thinking about After telling them a bit about the museum and himself, the kind of job you might like when you grow up, it'll he returned to the subject at hand. "Who can tell me help to know about these. why it's important to learn about industrial produc- "We have exhibits here that illustrate a dozen different tion?" he asked. kinds of industrial processes. I want to show you fouror Silence. five that I think will interest you, and tell you a little "Well, then, who can name some industrial prod- about the work and the workers in each. Come withme ucts?" to the first exhibit and we'll have a look." Exploring Careers

Foundry Occupations exact model, or , of the part out of metal, wood, or perhaps plaster. Patternmakers are highly skilled The youngsters followed Mr. Novacello over to the far workers. They make a model from a set of drawings wall and gathered around him before a large darkened called blueprints that give the exact measurements of the window. Curious to know what was about to happen, part. And since the quality of the product depends upon they listened to him closely. the quality of the pattern, patternmakers work very "This exhibit shows an industrial plant called a carefully and deliberately. foundry. The workers there make metal parts for many "When the pattern is finished, the molder uses it to different things." As he spoke, Mr. Novacello pushed a make a mold. Molders pack special sand around the button on the wall near the glass panel. Spotlights sud- pattern in a box called a . After pressing the sand denly illuminated the scene behind the glass, in which a very tightly with mallets or powered rammers, they dozen mechanical people came to life. All dressed in carefully remove the pattern, leaving a space in the sand overalls and hard shoes, they acted out the different exactly the shape of the final piece. This is the mold kinds of foundry work. At the same time, a clear, deep "Some have hollow sections," continuedthe voice spoke from a wall speaker. voice. "They axe forme -.1 when the liquid metal flows "The process used to make metal parts in a foundry is around a " that the coremaker creates. Coremakers called ," began the voice, "and it resembles the start with a wood or metal block with a space hollowed way you would mold a ring or some other shape out of out in the proper shape. After packing sand into the gelatin in your kitchen. Workers heat the metal until it hollow, they bake it or dry it by some other method. liquifies, then pour it into a mold. When it has cooled Once dry, the sand core is hard enough to remove and and hardened; the metal has the desired shape and is use in casting." taken from the mold. Fascinated by the mechanical figures, the children "Casting is used to make metal objects that must be stared for another minute or so while the voice described very strong, such as engine blocks and axles for cars. In other aspects of a foundry. Then the display went dark order to cast the desired shape, foundry workers create and the speaker silent. Mr. Novacello's voice broke the the molds themselves. First, the patternmaker creates an trance.

4

Foundry workers make metal objects that must be Steel workers may have to wear special clothing for very strong. Here the worker is pouring liquified protection. metal into a mold.

4 Industrial Production Occupations

"If you'll follow me over to the next display, we'llsee "The next occupation might be a bit easier. Two some other kinds of workers who make things out of people wearing face masks are standingover a metal metal." object, while one holds a torch to it. What doyou think they're doing?" Silence. Other Occupations "I thought you'd guess this one," said the guide. are welders. They use heat from gas or eiectric Leading the children to a large floor-to-ceiling display case, he pointed to the first of several life-sized figures posing behind the glass. "Now," he began, "whocan tell me the occupation of this man standing at the with a big in his hand?" "!" answered the class in unison. "Right!" said Mr. Novacello. "And what do black- smiths do?" "They put shoes on horses," answered a few voices. The guide smiled. "That's partly correct. Many black- smiths specialize in shoeing horses and are called farriers. But also make or mend metal objects for many other purposes. The process they use is called . First, they soften a piece of metal, usually iron, by heating it in a fireplace called a . Next, holding it on the anvil with a pair of , they strengthen and shape the metal by hammering and chiseling it. Then they cool it in water. This welder Is using heat from an acetylene torch to "This blacksmith is forging metal in essentially the join pieces of metal. same way that his predecessor did a hundred years ago. Even his are similar. In a modern forge shop,you would find workers who look like these next figures in the case. They heat the metal in a furnace anduse large power and presses to pound and squeeze it into the desired shape. With their equipment theycan pro- .7; duce objects such as keys, , bits,or huge parts for heavy machinery. And they can do it much faster than a blacksmith. "Now this occupation," continued Mr. Novacello, in- dicating the next figure, "may be harder to figureout. As you can see, this woman is placing a metal object in a vat of liquid. An electrical wire is connected to the object, and another runs into the liquid. Can anyone tell me what she's doing?" Mr. Novacello looked out across a sea of blank faces. "Do you all give up? This woman is an electroplater. She puts a metal layer, or , on an object. She does this by passing an electric current between the plating mate- rial, which can be silver, chromium, orsome other metal, and the object. She covers those parts of the object that aren't to be plated, and she carefully controls the strength and duration of the current. Then she checks the plating to make sure it was applied evenly and in the right thickness. In this display she is putting chrome plating An artificial limb doesn't prevent this worker from pursuing his trade as a welder. on an automobile bumper, but she could bepla:ingany of the shiny, silvery parts of a car. ti Exploring Careers

torches to join pieces of metal together. These two work Then the last worker assembles the boiler by or in a plant where bulldozers are made. They're joining riveting the pieces together. Small boilers, like the one two pieces of the bulldozer frame together. Welders also shown here, may be assembled in the shop, but large work in factories that make trucks, boilers, and all kinds ones, such as those that supply steam to drive turbines in of heavy machinery. But you see welders at work just electric power plants and in ships, must be put together about everywhere, not just in factories. They work on in place. Any questions?" bridges, roads, pipelines, and construction sites, joining Several in the group raised questions, which Mr. No- the metal beams and steel reinforcing rods that make vacello answered as best he could. Then he led them to those structures so strong. And they work on ships. Ship another corner of the hall. welders have to be highly skilled and they have to do "So far we've seen occupations related to metal prod- their jobs very carefully indeed, to be sure that the ship ucts. Now let's look at workers who make something doesn't break apart in rough seas. But that's enough for entirely different, something you all use every day in today about welders! schoolbooks." "Now let's look at these last workers in the display. They are demonstrating three different steps in boiler- making. The fast worker measures and cuts all the pieces Printing Occupations from metal, according to the blueprints. Thesemeasure- ments must be precise, because it may be impossible to "Most people in this country toda" read and own correct a bad cut. The next worker joins the pieces books," continued Mr. Novacello. at hundreds of together temporarily to see if they fit properly. It may be years ago books were handwritten, and only the very necessary to grind or cut in places to make a good fit. rich could afford them. And of course in those days, ordinary people didn't know how to read. With the invention of the printing press and movable type, books became much easier and cheaper to print. More people I bought them and learned to read them. So those of you who love reading can be grateful to the people who invented the processes we're about to see!" Following their guide through a wide doorway, the children found themselves on a long balcony overlooking a huge factory in miniature. When they had spread themselves out along the railing to get a better view, Mr. Novacello continued his talk. "If you could remove the roof of a printing plant and look inside, this is what you might see. The printing process begins in that far room, called the composing room. There, the compositors set a written text, or man- uscript, in type. "In the old days, they had to choose type by hand from a large case, one letter at a time. And since all the letters were backwards, itvas easy to make mistakes especially with letters that took alike. Compositors had to take a good look at each letter to be sure they had the right one. That's where the saying "Mind your p's and q's" comes from. Today setting type by hand in this traditional way is done only for very special printing jobs. "These days, compositors use machines with key- boards on which they type the text. These machines set type much faster than is possible by hand. Until fairly recently, the most common typesetting machines were need mechanical aptitude and manual the Monotype and Linotype machinesboth of which dexterity. force hot molten metal into rows of type. "Hot metal" typesetting is on the way out, however, and is being

6 Industrial Production Occupations replaced by machines that use paper and chemicalsto board, they leave blank spaces where the pictures will set the. type. appear. Meanwhile, other workers enlarge or reduce "After all the type is set, the columns of text must be each picture to the desired size and insert it in its intended arranged into pages. Usually the compositors print the space. Then the lithographer makes a plate of the entire text on paper which is then cut up and pasted onto page, pictures as well as words. mounting boards. The completed boards, looking just "The next step is the actual printing. But first, letme like the pages of the finished book, thengo trough a give you a little math problem. If it takes 4 days to print printing process. There are many differentways of print- a book using one printing press, and you want to print ing, including such old standbys as linoleum and wood- it in only 2 days, how would you do it?" block printing. For commercialpurposes, however, a "Use two presses!" shouted several of the children. process called lithography is very important." "Excellent!" replied Mr. Novacello. "Now, here's the Mr. Novacello pointed to another room in the model. hard part. If each press requires its own set of printing "You can see the lithographic process over here. Lithog- plates, but all of your typesetting and lithography has raphers photograph the boards with largecameras and produced only one set, what do you do?" make negatives. They lay the negativesover metal plates "Make another set!" shouted the same voices. that have been treated with a special light-sensitive "You're all too smart!" said the guide. "And that's chemical. When a plate is exposed to light, the chemic21 exactly why a print shop employs electrotypers. They eats into the metal only in the places where the negative make a wax or plastic mold of the printing plate. Then lets the light through, until... Presto! The plate has the they form a metal shell in the mold, in thesame way image from the negative etched into it. Andso a printing that the worker we saw earlier put a chrome layeron the plate is created. Have I confused you all yet?" car bumperby . That metal shell, with a Annie raised her hand. "How do the compositors lead backing, becomes a duplicate plate. make type for the pictures in a book?" she asked. "When all the plates are ready, they go the pressroom, "Good question!" answered Mr. Novacello, smiling. this large area nearest us. There, the press operators set "The answer is that they don't. When they pasteup a up the printing presses. They insert and adjust the plates,

1'

Many printing press operators learn their trade through apprenticeshipprograms.

13 Exploring Careers check the supplies of paper and ink, and run the presses. "All-round machinists have much more training and These presses print on both sides of paper that comes skill than machine- operators. They can operate from a large roll, and then cut the paper into sheets of many different kinds of machine tools, instead of just several book-pages each. one kind. With their knowledge of materials and tools, "These sheets go to the bookbinders, who fold them they can do everything necessary to turn a block of metal and assemble them into books. Using stitching and glue, into an intricate part." they bind the books and attach the covers. After some Mr. Novacello walked over to one of the machines. final touches, the books are ready to be sold. And, if you "Take a close look at a ," he said. "On each have no questions, we are ready to move on." one you'll find a or to hold the metal. You'll Mr. Novacello led the group back through the main also see the "tool" portion of the machine that actually hall and into an adjoining room. The major was cuts, , grinds, or presses the metal. Very often, in a large scale model, similar to that of the printing plant. order to make a particular part, a special jig or tool is Scattered around the edge of the room were life,-sir4 needed. If so, a tool-and- maker produces it. Tool- figures standing at various machines. The c1.0 and-die makers are not only highly skilled machinists, curious gazes wandered every which way unti' the guide but creative workers, too. began to speak. "I want to show you a few more metalworking occu- pations," he began, "but first I have a question. Who can tell me what a tool is?" After a conspicuous silence, one brave boy raised his hand. "A tool is something you use to help you do something." "Excellent," said Mr. Novacello. "And what are some examples of tools?" Hammer, saw, screwdriver, , , all were men- tioned in turn. "Very good," commented the guide. "You have all given examples of handtools. What you see in this room are examples of machine tools. Some are about the size of a person; others, as you can see in the scale model, fill an entire room. Some perform only one kind of opera- tion; others carry out a whole sequence of tasks auto- matically. But they ttll use power to cut, grind, drill, or shape metal. "Machine tools are an important part of industry because they can produce metal parts quickly with a high degree of precision. They make it possible to build complex machines, like automobiles, in large numbers. And those machines have . For example, if your family's car has a worn-out gear, you Tool-and-die makers need mechanical ability. can buy a new gear that will be virtually identical to the original one. If the gears were made with handtools, this wouldn't be possible. But with machine tools, we can "And speaking ofcreativity,the most creative machine mass produce automobiles, electric motors, airplanes, work of all is that of instrument makers. They are a bit and hundreds of other everyday products. like inventorsthey take someone's idea and translate "The people who work with machine tools have dif- it into a piece of experimental or custom-built equip- ferent kinds of jobs. Machine tool operars have the ment. And instrument makers work without the benefit least complicated jobs and need the least training. They of a detailed set of blueprints. Often, there's only a rough run a machine and watch for problems after set-up sketch or idea to work from. They use their skill and workers have performed the more demanding job of imagination to fill in the details of the design and then adjusting the machine and preparing it for use. Set-up carry it out." workers and operators usually stick to one kind of tool, After pausing to take a breath, Mr. Novacello called such as a drill press or a grinder. for questions. Annie, who was fascinated by thesizeof 14 8 -Industrial Production Occupations

some of .the machines, raised her hand. "How do they different kinds of jobs there are in industry. Whatcan put these machines in the factories?" she inquired. we say about these jobs? What are they like? What do "I'm glad you asked that!" replied Mr. Novacello. they have in common? And what sort ofperson would "Installing industrial equipment is the job of . be good at this work?" They may have to dismantle the old machinery, laya There were a few moments of silence. Then Dave foundation, move the new equipment in, and assemble raised his hand and answered, "Making things is what it. All of this takes a great degree of skill. Any other their jobs are all about. So you could say that industrial questions?" production workers deal with things. They havea lot There were no further questions. more to do with things than they do with people or "Well then," announced the guide, glancing at his ideas." watch, "so much for machining occupations. I'm going "They work with things," Mr. Borden wroteon the to take you now to another part of the museum. There board. "Very good. Is there anything to add to that?" we will closely examine the nature of one last production Dave continued, "Well, yes. The things these workers occupation. Follow me, if you will, aswe set off to deal with could be raw materials... machines ... tools ... equipment ... the final product itself. But whatever it is, it's an object of some kind. Somethingyou can touch or feel or handle." "Fine,' said Mr. Borden. "Now, does everyoneagree with what Dave has said?" Phil spoke up. "I agree that all industrial production workers deal mainly with things, but beyond that, their jobs aren't the same at all! Just think about the different levels of skill they need. You have the set-up worker who gets a drill press ready to use, makes all those calculations and adjustments and so forth.... And then you have the drill press operator who just runs the machine! That operator's job seems pretty straightforward tome. It's just a matter of starting and stopping the machine and watching it while it's running. "And don't forget the machinist," Phil continued, warming to his subject. "The machinists do highly skilled work. They have to know a lot to be able to setup and operate a to make a part for a motor, for example. So even though industrial production workers' jobs have some similarities, they aren't all alike. They range from routine and simple to very complex." "Industrial production work involves varying degrees of skill," wrote Mr. Borden. "Thanks, Phil. Now, what else?" Millwrights use ropes and other rigging devices to "These workers work mostly with their hands,"sug- help them move machinery. gested Barbara. "That's right," said the teacher. "They do manual work. They have to be good at doing things with their explore the production of hot dog lunches by the cafe- hands in order to work with handtools or operatema- teria cooks!" chines. It takes coordination and dexterity...the same kind involved in making a model or repairinga lawn Personal Characteristics mower, for example. Anything more?" Annie had something tosay."These workers have to The day after the field trip, Mr. Borden had his social use their heads. They read blueprints,measurethings, studiesclass reviewwhat they had learned at themu- and make calculations." seum. Walking up to the chalkboard and picking up a "You're right," answered Mr. Borden."Someof the piece of chalk, he said, "Let's start by brainstorming for industrial production workers we've learned about nced a few minutes. We learned a lot yesterday about the what's called spatial ability to work from diagrams and

9 15 Exploring Careers

with some sort of mechanical interest. So many of the jobs we learned about at the museum involved machines and mechanical principles. The workers were applying mechanical principles to practical situations." "Mechanical interest is important," Mr. Borden wrote. "And...?" There was silence. "Well, I can think of several things," continued the teacher. "Industrial workplaces can be noisy and dirty. 7 Industrial workers have to be able to do their jobs in places that may be uncomfortable or unpleasant. Some of the jobs are strenuous, and require both strength and stamina. Not all industrial production workers have to lift and carry heavy things, of course, but some do. And workers like assemblers and machine-tool operators may be on their feet all day long. That's tiring, too." Mr. Borden glanced around the room. "Does any- one have anything to add? No? Well, then, let's go on. The other day we saw a film about an automobile factory. ..."

Working with handtools takes concentration. blueprints. Spatial ability means they can look at a flat of a three-dimensional object and picture the object in their mind. They also have to have good form perception to notice details and detect slight flaws in shapes and surfaces. And, like just about all workers, they have to be able to understand instructions, reason, and use common sense. As Phil has just told us, reasoning ability is much more important for some industrial pro- duction workers than for others. I think we were all impressed with the problem-solving skills it takes to be an instrument maker." Pat spoke up. "Some of the jobs seem to me. Workers like assemblers do the same thing over and over again." "Yes, that's right," agreed Mr. Borden. "Some indus- trial production jobs involve repetitive tasks. Jobs like that are just right, though, for people who like repetitive, concrete, organized activities. Now, what else can we say about these workers and their jobs?" Emily raised her hand. "It seems to me that people This automobile worker enjoys his job. who have what it takes to learn a skilled trade are people

10 lb Industrial Production Occupations

, 1 Training occupation? Would you enroll at the State College of Boilermaking? Tool-and-Die Graduate School? Welding A week after the museum trip, Annie gave an oral University? That would be one way. report in Mr. Borden's social studies class. "Trade schools and technical institutes offerprograms "If you wanted to be a lawyer," she began, "you would in the skilled tradeswelding, printing, and tool-and- go to law school. To become a dentist, you'd attend a die making, for example. These programs provide theo- school of dentistry. But where would you go to learnan retical instruction and the practical skills you'd need industrial trade? For less difficult occupations, suchas right away on the job. Vocational training is given in machine tool operator or assembler, you could train right both public and private schools. You're probably famil- on the job. But how would you break into a skilled iar with the vocational education courses given here in

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This woman is training for a jobas an electric power plant operator.

I I Exploring Careers our school system. There are, in addition, thousands of private schools that teach the skills you'd need for a job in industry. "There are other ways to train for industrial produc- tion occupations, too. Often, the best route is through an apprenticeship. Consisting of planned classroom and on- the-job instruction, apprenticeships normally last about 4 years, although they range from 1 to 6 years. It all depends on the occupation. Apprenticeships are ar- ranged by unions and employers. "Here's how they work. Let's say you are an apprentice machinist with the Wonderful Widget Company. As an apprentice, you train for 4 years on the job, learning every aspect of a machinist's work. You also go to class to learn blueprint reading, shop mathematics, and other subjects. After completing all the requirements for the program, you receive a certificate that proves you have all the skills of a journeyworker machinist. "Many workers do learn their skills without appren- ticing. Quite a few get their training on the job by

Employers generally prefer to hire people who have finished high school.

watching experienced workers, asking questions, and having someone guide them as they try the job them- selves. While some of these workers have attended a vocational high school or a trade school, others begin .9 with no previous exposure to the occupation. And then there are workers who "pick up the trade" on their own by watching, imitating, and experimenting whenever they can." More About Training The Job Facts at the end of this chapter summarize the training requirements for each of 33 industrial pro- duction occupations. If one interests you, you can begin preparing in high school. Math, science, drafting, shop, and other industrial arts courses will help. You can join a chapter of VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America), if your school has one. VICA chapters plan projects, take field trips, and hold competitions in such skill areas as welding, machining, and printing. One final tip: Plan to finish high school. Employers do hire people who haven't finished high school, they prefer those who have. They know that high school gives you basic skills you'll need for the job. And the Many workers learn their skills on the job. diploma shows them that you're willing to finish some- thing once you've started it.

12 Industrial Production Occupations

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Karen says, "You don't needa great deal of education and experience to do what 1 do, but you have to be good withyour hands."

is 13 Exploring Careers

The traditional Fourth of July picnic in Elks Gap last Karen is a bench assembler. She assembles circuit weekcnd had been a big affair; everyone in town had boards for television sets and other electronic equipment, been there. Under the trees the fire department had set and works at a bench rather than on a moving assembly up grills to barbeque the chickens that would be eaten line. Putting together complete circuit boards means long before the fireworks began. There, Karen ran into installingall the components: Capacitors,resistors, her new neighbor, Sarah Green. Sarah and her husband diodes, transistors, and coeds. It means these had moved to Elks Gap just a few weeks before, and she components into place, and installing connecting wires and Karen had quickly gotten to be friends. where necessary. Karen usually works from a diagram Over barbequed chicken, Sarah had told Karen that or blueprint that shows her where to insert each com- she was thinking about looking for a job. Karen told her ponent. Sometimes, however, Karen uses a "sample about Astro Electronics, the plant where she worked. board"an exact model of the board she is constructing. "Why don't you come out and apply for a job like Karen's job as a bench assembler is more complex and mine" she had suggested. "You don't need a great deal involved than that of an assembly line worker. Karen of education or experience to do what I do. But you do assembles the circuit boards from start to finish, instead need to be good with your hands. You need patience, of just inserting one or two components, which is what too, and have to be able to concentrate on very small she might be doing if she were working on an assembly tasks." line. On an assembly line she would repeat the same task

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Assembling electronic components is very delicate, detailed work that requires concentration.

14 Industrial Production Occupations over and over again, rather than complete all the steps many different kinds of circuit boards, and the variety of the circuit board assembly process herself. makes it interesting." Kann didn't need any special training to get her job Karen had been excited and enthusiastic when she at Astro Electronics. The company put her through a talked to Sarah about her job. But now the holiday is training course the first day she went to work there, and over and Karen is back at work. She has to make an since then she's been learning and gaining speed through effort to concentrate on the work in front of her. practice. Tools are scattered around Karen's workbenchwire "It's a bit like puttingtogether,a puzzle or a model strippers, wire cutters, pliers, lacing cord, a soldering airplane," she had told Sarah. "It's very delicate, detailed iron. There's cleaning fluid on the , andsev- work that requires a lot of concentration. I have touse eral trays of electrical components, too. Karen picksup a magnifying glass sometimes, when I'm working on an electrical component and plugs it into some holes in very tiny boards. It can be hard on the eyes. But I enjoy the circuit board. She turns the board over and uses her the work. It's not boring at all, because I put together wire cutters to clip the wire that is sticking out of the circuit board in the back. Then she picks up her soldering iron and solders some metal onto the bottom of the component that's sticking through the circuit board. The melted metal, as it dries, holds the component securely in place. Karen picks up another electrical component and repeats the process. The "bench" that Karen is sitting at is actually a 04..k row ,a4 of long tables, like the kind used in a school cafeteria. There are lots of benchesrow after row. The benches fill up the large warehouse-like building where Karen works. The work area is clean and the temperature is Sr comfortable. Karen likes being able to sit down all day rather than stand, as she'd probably have to do on an assembly line. Sometimes her neck and back get sore from bending over her bench, but it's better than stand- ing all day, in her opinion. All of the people working at Karen's bench are assem- bling the same kind of circuit board that Karen is. They work quietly, each concentrating on the work at hand. It's easy to become involvell it: the work when there'sso much detail. "How's everything down on this end?" The question startles Karen, but she recognizes the voice. It's her supervisor, Betty. Karen smiles and replies, "All right, I guess, but I'm going to need some more resistors soon." Betty nods. "I'll go bring some over. Does anyone else need anything?" The man next to Karen asks for some more wire. Betty nods again and then hurries off. "She's always rushing around," Karen thinks to her- self "But then I guess supervising 30 workers is a pretty demanding job." Before long Betty is back with the materials. "Oh, Karen," she says, "we have a new worker. She'll be coming out of training after lunch. I thought I'd place her next to you, so that you can help her if she has any problems." Karen uses a magnifying glass to put together very small parts. "All right," Karen replies quietly. "By the way," says Betty, "it's your friend Sarah." Karen looks up with a surprised smile.

15 Exploring Careers

Exploring Assembly work requires attention to detail and the ability to follow diagrams and written directions. Assemblers need to be good at working with their hands. Are you good at fixing things? Are you good at following a recipe, sewing or doing Are you handy with tools? needlepoint from a pattern, building a model from Can you repair your bicycle? written instructions, assembling a radiofroma kit, or Do you enjoy leisure activities that involve working painting by numbers? with your hands, such as sewing,macrame, stringing Are you good at reading maps? beads, model building, or furniture refinishing? Do you understand football plays when they're writ- ten out? Assembly work usually involves a lot of repetition. As- semblers must be willing to perform repetitious tasks. Assemblers work indoors. They stay in a small workarea while they do their jobs. Do you enjoy needlework such as knitting, crochet- ing, or quilting? Can you sit still through your classes? Can you put up with the repetition involved inmow- Can you concentrate without feeling the need to move ing grass, shoveling snow, painting a house,or putting around all the time? down tile? Suggested Activities Ask your teacher to arrange a plant tour if there isa Speed can be important in assembly work. factory in your community. Prepare questions in ad- vance on the types of production jobs there. Ask about Are you good at activities that require finger dexterity the education and training needed to get a job, starting such as slapjack, jacks, or shuffling and dealing cards? pay, and opportunities for advancement.

Factory workers relaxing in the products they make.

16 industriaProduction Occupations

This worker is filling capsules with medicine. These strands are being twisted to make tire cord.

Prepare a report on Henry Ford and the assembly line a portable electric cutter. I generally cut many layers of for your English or social studies class. Explain how fabric at a time. this method of organizing work has affected theman- ufacturing process. How has it affected the workers? 4. CITAAMOUT NIRTP EPELOVERD. I tendsev- eral machines that automatically develop, fix, wash, and Use Working by Studs Terkel as the subject fora book dry photographic prints. report in your English class. (New York: Pantheon 5. CIAMNEH GAPARECK. I tend machines that Books, 1974.) perform packaging functions, such as filling, marking, labelling, tying, packing, or wrapping containers. Related Occupations 6. NARY DWENRI. I tend machines that wind strands of yarn into packages for further processing, Assemblers aren't the only workers with factory jobs. shipment, or storage. Using the descriptions below, unscramble the lettersto find the names of other production workers. 7. PLUMAOE RELFLI. I tenda machine that fills smallglass containers knownas ampoules with measured 1. GIEWSN NAEMCIH TOAPRORE. I use asew- doses of liquid drug products. ing machine to join, gather, hem, reinforce,or decorate such articles as carpets, gloves, hats, bags, and uphol- 8. ENARCYN KEWROR. I put fruits, vegetables, stery. meat, cheese, and other food products into processing equipmentwashing, peeling, refrigerating, coring, pit- 2. YAPSR NEITRAP. I use a spray gun tospray the ting, rimming, grinding, dicing, cooking,orslicingma- surfaces of machines, manufactured products,or work- chines. The work I do is used in canning,freezing, ing areas with paint, enamel, glaze, gelcoat,or lacquer. preserving,or packaging food products. Before painting something, I often clean grease and dirt from it; sometimes I fill cavities and dents with putty. 9. GTNTKINI HICANEM TROPAEOR. I tendsev- eralmachines that knit fabrics, garment parts,or other 3. HAMNICE TURTEC. I cut fabric into parts for articles from yarn. such articles as canvas goods, house furnishings,gar- ments, hats, stuffed toys, and upholstered furniture, using See answers at end of chapter.

2 17 xploring Careers

Machinist

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Machinists do very precise work.

18 2 Industrial Production Occupations

Joe rolled over and opened his eyes. Through the "What things?" asked the voice, quietly. dense grey haze he could make out small lights twinkling "Parts for machines, usually. I work in a like stars. that makes replacement parts for waterpumps, electric "Strange, it wasn't foggy out," he thought, trying to generators, sometimes cars: well, anything, really. We'll make some sense of the haze that had swallowed him make almost anything from metal." up. Images swirled through his mind: A quiet summer "What is metal?" night, the street leading to his house, unfamiliar lights "What is metal?" repeated Joe, puzzled. "Everyone behind'a hedge, a blinding flash, and.... knows what metal is." Joe realized with a start that he was no longer outside "We're sorry, but we don't," replied the voice. "Please his house. In fact he had no idea where hewas. Alarmed, explain metal to us." he jumped to his feet, but lost his footing and fell "Metal is a...well, it's steel, iron, brass...I don't know backwards. As Joe struggled tb his feet, hesaw that the the scientific definition. How can I explain? Wait, I'll surface underneath him was as clear as glass. He knew show you." already that it was as slick as ice. Joe searched his pockets and found the 6-inch steel Joe made an effort to focuson his surroundings despite he used at work. He held the ruler in front of him the grey haze that made it difficult tosee. He seemed to and said, "This is metal. This is Steel...." be in the middle of a large roundroom. He stood and cautiously took a step toward the lights. A white light streaked from above, touched Joe's hand "Who are you?" boomed a loud, authoritative voice. and instantly disappeared. The ruler wasgone. Joe fell Joe froze. to his knees. He was almost in tears. "Who are you?" repeated the voice impatiently. Joe "We do know metal. We have seen it before. Tellus saw the spheres of light blink as the voice spoke. He felt more about how you work with metal." compelled to answer. "Please don't hurt me," cried Joe. "I'm. Joe Von Braun. Where am I?" "Don't be afraid," responded the voice,as the sphere No answer. Joe thought about makinga break for it, of light blinked rapidly. "We would never hurtyou. We but remembered how slippery the floorwas. only want to understand. We haveseen metal before, but "I must be dreaming," he thought. "Ofcourse, this is we have nothing like it where we live. We are eager to only a dream. I'll wake up any minute." learn about it. How do you make things from metal?" "Please, don't run," said another voice,a soft and Joe hesitated, then began talking again. Hedid not soothing one this time. The sound frightened himeven know what else to do. more, because this voice was closer and undeniably real. "Usually I work from a blueprint the boss givesme. I As Joe turned in the direction of the voice, the haze start...." grew lighter. Only a few yards in front of him a sphere "What is a blueprint?" interrupted the voice. of light was suspended in midair. In the haze it looked "A blueprint is a drawing of the part I haveto make. like the sun on a cloudy day. By looking at it I know what the fmal product willlook "Please, sir, don't run," repeated the gentle voice. The like. The blueprint also has the specifications. Theytell light blinked as the words were spoken. Joe stillwas too me how long and wide to make the-part and what kind frightened to speak. of metal to use. Usually the specifications alsogive an "We know our first voice disturbed you, butwe mean estimate of how much time I have to make the part." no harm. We are visitors to your world and we wish to "Thank you, we understand whata blueprint is. Please know more about you. We have talked tomany of you, continue," said the voice, as the sphere blinked. but there is still so much to learn. Please tell us about "First I gather the metal stock. I'd better explainthat. yourself." "Metal stock" is a term for all the different piecesof The voice was calm and reassuring. Encouraged, Joe metal I'll be working with: Steel rods, brass tubing,bars began to speak. He spoke haltingly at first, thenmore of aluminum, whatever. Then I do the layout. I mark confidently. the metal to show where I should cut it, put holes init, "I don't know where to begin...." or shape it." "Tell us anything." "How do you cut it or shape it? Isn't metaltoo "Well, my name is Von Braun. I'm 35. Havea wife. hard?" What else? I'm a machinist...." "I use machines," explained Joe. "Thereare all kinds "That's interesting. We've never talked toa machinist of machines specially designed to work metallathes, before. What is it?" machines, drill presses, planers, and grinders, for "A machinist is...that is...I make things." example.

19 Exploring Careers

"I use saws to cut metal to the right length; drills to , I have to select the tool that's the right shape, put holes in it; planers to shape it and grinders to smooth size, and hardness to make the cut I need. its surface. The milling machine and the lathe are the "Then I mount the tool on the machine and set the most versatile of all. They can do almost any job." speed that determines how fast the tool will cut the "So these machines do all your work," said the voice. metal. The speed is very important. If I make the cut too "No, no, no," Joe said hastily. "The machinesare fast, the tool will wear out quickly or break. This could useless without me. I have to set them up, so they run ruin the workpiece. Sometimes I set up a hose that sprays properly." liquid on the tool and the metal. The liquid keeps them "Oh, excuse us. Please go on." cool as the cutting is done. "Aftel I've done the layout, I start using the machines. "All of this may be hard to understand. Let me give The first thing I do is decide which machines touse. you some examples. Say I had a bar of metal an inch in Usually that depends on what I'm doing. For some jobs diameter and I wanted to make it thinnerjust half an I have to use a certain size lathe or a milling machine. inch in diameter. I would put the bar on a lathe. The bar For others I can choose how I do the job. Take lies in the machine horizontally and spins very fast. A a hole. I can use a drill press or a milling machine. The tool that looks like a chisel would be held in a on drill is a little faster, but the milling machine is more the side of the machine. By moving handles and gears at accurate. the base of the lathe I can position the tool against the "The next step is to set up the machine. The part of spinning bar, to cut it to the right size. the machine that actually i;uts the metal I'm workingon "If I wanted to put a hole in the same bar, I would use is called the tool. Tools come in all shapes and sizes. the milling machine. The bar would be clampedon a Some are round with teeth like a circular saw. Others flat table that moves up and down and sideways. The look like . Tools are made from different types of toolin this case a drillis held in an arm above the metal, usually very hard steel. Before I can cut the metal table. The tool spins and the bar is positioned under it.

Machinists are among the most highly skilled manual workers.

20 "You're doing fuae," said the voice. The lights blinked on your feet most of the day, and it's not just physical several times. "What do you do after you have cut the work. You have to be able to plan. You have to be good metal with the machines?" at math to calculate the measurements, machine speeds. "Well, after I've cut the metal, I measure it to make and such. You have to be able to concentrate and have sure it meets the specifications. Sometimes I can do it the patience to do really precise work. Besides all that with a ruler, that thing I showed you before. Most jobs you need a bit of imagination. Not everyone can make require more precision. A workpiece may have to be a three-dimensional object from a flat drawing." between 5.999 and 6.001 inches long. 'I use a "You are very proud of your skills." to make really precise measurements. The precision is "I always have beenever since my apprenticeship. necessary because the part I make usually goes into a There's something special about taking a piece of metal larger machine. I have to make it just the right size, so and it into something useful." it fits, "What is an apprenticeship?" "When I'm sure all the pieces are aczeptable, I can "It's a traditional way of learning a craft or trade. You assemble the part. That means a lot of hand work with learn by working with experienced workers. And by files, hammers, and screwdriversand more measuring. studying. After I graduated from high school I was And that's it," concluded Joe. accepted in an apprenticeship program at the Navy "Do all machinists do the same things you do?" asked Yard. I learned to run the machines on the job and the voice. studied math, blueprint reading, and the characteristics "No, not at all. It depends on where you work. Some of metals in evening classes." machinists make the same part over and over again. "You have been most helpful," said the voice. "But if Others make many different kinds of parts; that's what we don't return you now, you will be missed." I do. And some machinists work in factories repairing "Wait a minute," shouted Joe. "Who are you? Don't production machinery. Well, is there anything else you you think you owe me some explanations?" want to know?" sighed Joe. "Whatever we tell you, you would forget in a short "Are you tired? You have been very helpful." time. Goodbye and thank you." The sphere vanished. "Wait! Wait!" As Joe shouted the grey haze grew more dense. Soon he could not see anything. He felt very warm and the haze was so thick he had trouble breathing. He thrashed wildly with his arms. A hand firmly gripped his shoulder. "Joe, wake up! Wake up!" Joe jumped up. He was in his bed and his wife was shaking him. "That must have been some dream," she said. "Was it ever!" "It's over now. Go to sleep." The next day Joe could not recall any of the details of his dream nor could he find his steel ruler.

Exploring

Machinists make parts for factory machinery, cars, and other metal products.

Do you like to build things? Do you like to work with your hands?. Machining requires concentration. Do you build models or make jewelry? Do you repair bicycles or customize automobiles? Do you enjoy woodworking?

21 Exploring Careers

Machinists use handtooLc and such machines as Join a chapter of VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of and drill presses. America), if your school has one. VICA chapters plan projects, take field trips, and hold competitions in such Do you use tools or machines for a hobby, for work skill areas as machine shop and machine drafting. around the house, for gardening, for farming, or for repairing cars, vans, or trucks? Join an Auto Mechanic or Skilled Trades Explorer Post, Do you like to learn how machines work? if there is one in your area. Exploring is open to young Do you like to learn how to use tools? men and women aged 14 through 20. To find out Is it easy for you to learn how to use a tool you've about Explorer posts in your area, call "Boy Scouts of never used before? America" listed in your phone book, and ask for the "Exploring Division."

Machinists follow blueprints and diagrams. They use If your school has a machine shop, ask the instructor to mathematics to make measurements and set up their talk to your class. Arrange a tour of the shop. machines.

Can you read and understand graphs, diagrams, and If you are a Girl Scout, see if your local troop has the charts? From Dreams to Reality program of career explora- Can you read road maps? tion. Troops may also offer opportunities to try out Can you look at a drawing and picture the three- careers through internships, service aide and commu- dimensional object in your mind's nity action projects, and proficiency badges in a num- ber of areas including Handywoman and Metal Arts. Do you like to work with numbers? Do you like to solve written math problems? If you are a Boy Scout, try for merit badges in Machinery, , Metalwork, and Model Design and Build- Machinists must do accurate work. ing.

If you are fixing or building something, do you try to Investigate the properties of metal for a report for your do it just right? science class or for a science fair project. Compare the Have you ever done any detailed work? characteristics of several metals. Gold, for example, is Do you build complicated models or embroider? relatively soft and easy to shape. Steel is harder and Can you work on something for a long time without more difficult to work with. The encyclopedia is a bnoming bored or careless? good place to start your research. Public and school libraries have books that explain how different metals are made and used. Machinists usually work with little direct supervision. They must be responsible. As a topic for a science or industrial arts class, report on Do you usually get your school assignments done on machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and time? drill presses. Illustrate your report with pictures and Can you work alone successfully? diagrams. The encyclopedia is a good place to get an Do you have hobbies in which you work alone? overview of the topic. Library books will explain in more detail how machine tools work and what they are used for. Write for information to the National Suggested Activities Machine Tool Builders Association, 7901 Westpark Drive, McLean, Virginia 22102. Spend time on hobbies and other activities in which you build or repair things. Build models. Do carpentry. Mathematics is an essential tool for machinists because Sculpt. Make metal jewelry. Make repairs around your precision is so important in their work. Machinists home. Repair your bicycle. may work within tolerances as fine as 1/1,000 of an inch. To achieve this sort of precision, they make Volunteer to repair toys for a nursery school or day care measurements and do calculations. See if you can center, or for a community organization such as the solve the problems below. They are typical of some of Salvation Army. the simpler problems machinists deal with every day.

22 Industrial Production Occupations

A machinist must cut the following lengths from 2-meter bars of steel: 156 centimeters, 176 centi- meters, 19 centimeters, 42 centimeters, and 117 centimeters. How many 2-meter bars will that take? How much steel will be left over? In cutting gears for a piece of machinery, the number of teeth on a gear depends on the diameter of the wheel. A machinist has just made a gear with 50 teeth and a diameter of 10 inches. How many teeth would be on a gear with a diameter of 7 inches? A machinist has been assigned to cut a groove in a metal block so that the depth beneath the groove is 2.5983 inches. The block is 2.7482 inches thick. After finishing the job, the machinist measures the groove and finds it is .1498 inches deep. In order to work, the part must have been machined to within a-tolerance of 1/10,000 of an inch. Is the part acceptable?

See answers at end of chapter.

Because measurements are very important in machinists' work, the conversion to the metric system will affect Most machine tool operators learn their skills on the their job in a number of ways. Use the topic of metric job. measurement in metalworking for a report in a math- ematics class. You might begin your research by writ- ing for information to the Office of Weights and 3. George works with precious metals. He can Measures, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, shape gold, silver, or platinum just as a machinist D.C. 20234. They also will supply a list, by State, of shapes steel or brass. speakers to talk about the metric system. 4. Jim makes or repairs parts for a machine used Related Occupations by almost everyone. He uses a lathe just as a ma- chinist does. The parts in his machine are so small Machinists are not the only workers who deal with that Jim uses a magnifying glass and tweezers to metal and machines. Eight occupations in which the work with them. work is similar to a machinist's are listed below. Try to match the workers with their job titles. 5. Sarah designs machinery. She had to attend college to get her job. a. Machine tool operator b. Instrument maker 6. Beverly makes the cutting devices used in ma- c. Setup worker chine tools. She learned many of her skills as a d. Tool-and-die maker machinist. e. Mechanical engineer f.Industrial machinery repairer 7. Doug. operates a drill press and grinding ma- g. Jeweler chine. He learned his skills on the job in a few h. Watch repairer months.

1. Dan makes machines that are used for mea- 8. Susan repairs and maintains machines used in surement in industrial production and research. He factories. Sometimes she uses machine tools to make has all the skills of a machinist and more. replacement parts. Usually, however, she has the factory's machinist do the work. 2. Brenda sets the speed on drill presses used by less skilled workers. See answers at end of chapter.

23 2.i MXplOring kareers

Photocompositor

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Bernard Petrocelli is setting type on a phototypesetter.This is like using a typewriter," he explains, "but there is a lot more to know."

24 Industrial Production Occupations

Bernard Petrocelli plated into the parking lot of Broad- illegal for anyone but the Federal Government to print view Elementary School. Before getting out of his car, its paper currency. That's done at the U.S. Bureau of he glanced in the rear-view mirror to make sure that his and Printing in Washington, D.C. tie was on straight. "I'mglaifI dOift have to put on a "Printing was first practiced by the Chinese over a suit and tie every morning," he thought to himself. thousand years ago," Maria's father continued. "They He checked in at the office, where Ms. Kawasaki, his used carved wooden blocks to print. I imagine you've daughter's sixth grade teacher, was waiting to greet him. done pretty much the same thing yourselves in art class. "It.certainly is nice to meet you, Mr. Petrocelli. We've Those early Chinese printers carved pictures or words all been learning so much from the parents who come on wooden blocks, inked or painted the blocks, then and speak to the class about the work they do. I'm sure pressed them against another surface to make a print. the children will be fascinated to hear about your job." "The wood block method of printing developed by the "Thank you very much," replied Mr. Petrocelli as the Chinese was slow and painstaking. Most books and man- two walked down the hall. uscripts were handwritten until the 1400's. About this Ms. Kawasaki continued, "I've been doing a bit of time, people began experimenting, looking for a way to research and I'm amazed at the changes that have taken produce books more quickly and cheaply. Around 1450, place in the printing industry in the last 20 years. In fact, a German named Johann Gutenberg invented a process I just finished reading about a process for storing infor- for making movable type out of metal. The process mation called micropublishing. It seems that they are allowed him to use the same type over and over again to working on some equipment that can record an entire print different pages. He also invented the printing press, textbook on an area the size of a postage stamp!" which he probably adapted from a wine or cheese press, "Yes, there have been some astounding changes in and developed sticky ink to be used with the metal type." printing technology. And, with the use of computers, A girl in the front row raised her hand. "We learned things are changing more rapidly than ever. My work in that Johann Gutenberg is called the Father of Printing." the composing room has come a long way from the days Mr. Petrocelli replied, "Yes, he is often referred to as behind a noisy Linotype machine casting hot metal." the Father of Printing because his invention of movable The two adults entered Ms. Kawasaki's classroom and type revolutionized the printing process. Printing spread took seats in the back of the room, waiting quietly for rapidly in Western Europe, and by the early 1500's more the music teacher to finish his lesson. than a thousand print shops were operating." After music was over, Ms. Kawasaki went to the front "What has happened since then?" asked a small boy of the room to speak to the class. "As you all know, we in the back of the room. have a guest speaker today who is here to help us learn "Our story continues," said Mr. Petrocelli. "The first more about the world of work. He is Maria's father, Mr. book was printed .in America less than 20 years after the Petrocelli, and he is going to tell us about his job as a Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. The writings of two photocompositor in a print shop. We already have dis- early pr'-iters, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine, cussed how important printing is, as a means of both strengthened the spirit of unrest in the 1700's that even- communication and learning, so I think you will all be tually brought about the American Revolution. Their interested in finding out more about the process. Now, influence kept up the will of the Colonies to win the war. without further delay, I'd like to introduce Mr. Petro- "Over the years, printers gradually introduced im- celli." provements in the typesetting and design of books. Even- "Good morning, boys and girls," Mr. Petrocelli began. tually, the job of printing became specialized. That "It's a pleasure to be here. As your teacher told you, I'm means the printerwho in the days of Benjamin Frank- a photocompositor and I work for the Atlas Printing lin was also the publisher, editor, type designer, and Companya large shop downtown. We print everything book sellerno longer performed all those other duties." that's fit to be published, including magazines, brochures, "Are you a printer?" a girl in the third row wanted to advertisements, envelopes, and even labels for cans of know. food. This morning I'm going to talk to you briefly about "Well, not exactly...I was just getting to the part the history of printing and then IT tell you about my where Ifit in," answered Mr. Petrocelli. "The 20th job and what I do. Please feel free to ask questions at century has witnessed many changes in printing. Jobs any time." have become much more specialized as the industry has A boy who was sitting on the edge of his seat raised grown. And the printing industry has grown tremen- his hand and burst out, "Do you print money, too?" dously! Well over a billion books are bought each year Mr. Petrocelli smiled and replied, "Paper money is in the United States alone. Furthermore, technology has printed, but that's one job we don't handle at Atlas. It's changed the way we do our jobs. Today's world is one

25 Exploring Careers of automation. Machines perform much of the work that "Can we pass it around the room? I can't see it," came used to be done by hand. I think my job in the composing a voice from the back of the room. "We'll handle it very room illustrates some important changes that have taken carefully." place in the printing industry over the last 25years. Mr. Petrocelli smiled. "That's a good idea, because the "In the composing room, we set the type. We take the metal is a mixture of lead, tin, and antimony, and it will "copy"the material that is to be printedand from bend or scratch rather easily. It's not hard like steel or that we prepare pages of type. When I first startedas a coPPer." compositor 27 years ago, I operated a machine calleda He continued, "Operating the Linotype was hard Linotype. I learned the work righton the job, as an work. The machines were hot and noisy and my clothes apprentice. To make a line of type, I punched the letters often got splashed with hot lead." from the keyboard. The machine then made words from "Then why did you stay in that job?" a girl asked. a hot metal mixture it had pressed into molds of these "There were lots of good things about the job," Mr. letters. This cooled into a solid metal stripor 'line Petrocelli replied, "For one thing, I've always been proud o'type'." He reached into his pocket and pulled outa to work in the printing industry because it's so important silver colored bar. "To give you a better idea, I brought to all of us. And a job like mine takes skill. When I was along a line of type." operating the Linotype, I had to space all the words

Computers and electronics are changing printing methods. Hobbies and courses in these areas provide a good background for printing.

26 Industrial Production Occupations

properly to fit the column size and decide where to break like I did in the other phototype process. The keyboard words at the end of a line when necessaryall those has many extra keys, however, and I had to learn them ihings require judgment. all. There are keys, for example, that indicate the size "After I had been there about 10 years, thecompany and style of type and the space between letters. There I was working for adopted a new method of setting type. also are keys that give the machine directions suchas -Instead of the machine casting of molten metal, type is "delete" or "store in memory". Ascreen that looks like set by a photographic process that uses paper and chem- a television screen has been added to the keyboard so icals. Because photographyis such an important part of now I can see the characters as I set the manuscript. The this process, it's called phototypesetting. Sometimes it's screen is called a Visual Display Terminal. called photocomposition. "After the copy has been typed onto the keyboard,my "To make the change, I had to go througha training machine produces a tape that later is fed intoa computer. program. I wasn't at all pleased about changing over to The computer's job, basically, is to decide when to cold type at first, and complained about it to the union hyphenate words and how to space them properlyso representative. I figured that I had mastered the Linotype that the margins will be even. The computer has been and I didn't want to start from the beginning witha new programmed with a set of rules so that it knows, for machine. I was pretty upset for a while. But eventually example, that hearing should be hyphenated hear-ing. It I realized that the Linotype machine reallywas on the also is instructed that ring should not be hyphenatedr- way out, and that I had no choice but to pick up new ing, as that's a one-syllable word. When I handled the skills." Linotype, I made all those decisions myself. Thecom- "Wasn't it hard to "relearn" your job after all those puter produces a tape that "drives" our phototypesetting years?" asked a boy sitting near the windows- machine and prints out material much faster thanany _"Becoming a photocompositor did takesome getting person could do it. Our system, for example, can print a used to," Mr. Petrocelli replied. "I had to learn to work page of type every 3 or 4 seconds!" a whole new machine. The keyboard was completely The students clearly were impressed. Maria beamed. different, so I had to block the old one frommy mind Her father then asked for more questions. Also, this machine produced paper prints or filmnega- One boy hesitated, then asked, "In the beginning,you tives instead of strips of metal." said you learned your trade by apprenticeship. I'mnot "Why did the company change from hot metalto sure what that means." phototype?" a girl asked. "That's a good question," Mr. Petrocelli replied. "In "Phdtotypesetting offers many advantagesover casting the apprenticeship training program, I learnedmy trade type from hot Metal," answered Maria's father. "It's a on the jobat first by watching others and then picking fast, flexible, relatively inexpensive method of setting up skills on my own. At the same time I had classroom type. instruction in related subjects, such as typography, print- "For example, in phototypesetting, the print will al- ing, and English. The program was run jointly by the ways be clear and perfect, no matter how many copies union I belong to and the company. It lasted 4years; I must be produced. That's because it's photographed. gradually gained more responsibility and earnedmore When metal type is usedthe kind you're passing money." around the class right nowthe metal letters must be Another pupil asked Mr. Petrocelli what advice he'd inked to make print. However, the pressure of the metal give to students interested in printing. type against the paper causes "ink squeeze", which:tends "First of all, I would recommend that you finish high to make the edges of the printed letters irregular. Also, school:There are courses you can take in school that will phototype is very convenient when different type sizes give you a good backgroundtyping and English, for are needed for one job. A simple magnifying lens allows example. Don't underestimate English! Grammar isa the machine to photograph correctly sized type." "must". And learn all you can about electronics,com- Mr. Petrocelli went on. "My career took one more puters, and photographyfor that is where the future major twist when I went to work for Atlas about 4 years lies in the printing industry." ago. Being a large company, they had the most modern Ms. Kawasaki walked up the aisle and joined the equipment. Once again I needed more training...because speaker at the front of the room. "I'm afraidour time is Atlas uses computers in their typesetting system." up, but I'd like you to know how much we enjoyed your An enthusiastic student burst out, "Wow, another talk today." "new career" for you!" "It was my pleasure to be here," replied Mr. Petrocelli. "In a way, yes," Mr. Petrocelli responded. "In this Just then the class broke out in loud and enthusiastic typesetting operation, I type on a special keyboard just applause.

27 3 3 Exploring Careers

Exploring Try your hand at printing, using one of the inexpensive printing kits you can obtain at hobby shops or depart- Photocompositors need finger and manual dexterity in ment stores. order to type copy on the keyboard of a composing Put your name or initials on greeting cards or machine. stationery. Make business cards for the staff of your school Do you knit, do needlework, or do macrame? newspaper or yearbook. Can you thread a needle quickly? Print letterhead stationery for a school club. Can you type? Print publicity far a school event such as a career Are you good at games like slapjack and jacks? day, concert, science fair, or awards ceremony. Can you shuffle and deal a hand of cards quickly? Volunteer to print flyers, bulletins, and news re- Do you enjoy leisure activities that involve working leases for your church or temple, or for a commu- with your hands, such as making jewelry, building nity organization. models, or refinishing furniture? Use the silk-screen process to print a poster, greeting card, or gift enclosure. Design and print holiday wrap- Photocompositors must have an eye for detail. They must ping paper. follow the copy exactly and detect every single mark on material that comes back for correction. Set up a printing business as a class project under the Junior Achievement (JA) program. This program Can you read road maps easily? Can you find a place on a road map quickly? Do you like to do word -finds and other games where you must find hidden objects in pictures? Are you good at following a recipe, sewing or doing needlework from a pattern, building a model from written instructions, assembling a radio from a kit, or painting by numbers?

The work of photocompositors can be repetitious.

Do you enjoy needlework that involves a lot of repetition, such as knitting, crocheting, or quilting? Can you put up with the repetition involved in mow- ing grass, shoveling snow, painting a house, or putting ,down tile?

Photocompositors work indoors. They are confined to their work areas for long periods of time.

Can you sit still in the car during long trips? Can you sit still through your classes or an assembly program?

Suggested Activities

Ask your teacher to arrange a field trip to view the printing process at a local printing plant or newspaper. 41,

Invite a compositor to speak to your class about his or her job. Ask the speaker to bring in galley proofs and Mr. Petrocelli helps an assistant with layout work. explain the proofreader's marks.

28 Industrial Production Occupations

gives high school students a chance to operatean As a project for an English or art class, set upa display actual business. JA printing companies typically do of different types of printed material: Books,maga- job printing or publish local newspapersor magazines. zines, newspapers, flyers, matchbook covers, labelson For information, write to Junior Achievement, Inc., containers and packages. For each item in your dis- 550 Summer Street, Stamford, Connecticut 06901. play, identify the type size and typeface. The library has books on typography that will help. Your school system, or a nearby community collegeor technical institute, may offer courses in printingor Use the topic of metrics in the graphic arts and printing graphic arts. If so, invite one of the instructors to speak trades for a report in a mathematics class. You might to your class. Prepare questions in advance on the begin your research by writing for information to the kinds of printing jobs there are inyour community, Office of Weights and Measures, National Bureau of and the training they require. Standards, Washington, D.C. 20234. They also will supply a list, by State, of speakers to talk about the Join a chapter of VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of metric system. America), if your school has one. VICA chapters plan projects, take field trips, and hold competitions in such As a project for an English or social studies class, report skill areas as offset printing. on the role of newspapers and the printing industry during the American Revolution. Invite a local representative from the International Ty- pographical Union to speak to your class aboutap- Write for information on careers in the printing industry prenticeship opportunities in the printing industry in to the American Newspaper Publishers Association, your community. The Newspaper Center, Post Office Box 17407, Dulles International Airport, Washington, D.C. 20041 and to If you are a Boy Scout, try for the merit badge in the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation, Education Printing. Council of the Graphic Arts, 4615 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213. Computers and electronics are changing printing meth- ods. Hobbies in these areas provide a good background for a career in the printing industry. Related Occupations Do a project on electronics or computers fora science fair. The compositor handles only one step of a printing Join an Electronics or Computer Explorer Post, if job. The work of other people in printing and publishing there is one in your area. Exploring isopen to occupations is described below. If you need to, refer to young men and women aged 14 through 20. To the list of job titles at the end. find out about Explorer posts in your area, call "Boy Scouts of America" listed in your phone 1. I run the printing press, inserting print plates into book, and ask for the "Exploring Division." the machine and controlling the ink and paper. I also may have to clean or repair the machine. Who am I? Knowledge of photography is increasingly important in the printing industry. 2.I check the type for all kinds of errors, such as Learn how to take pictures with a 35-mmcamera. spelling, grammar, punctuation, and margins. Who am Join a Photography Explorer Post, if there isone I? in your area. If you are a Boy Scout, try for a merit badge in 3. I make metal printing plates of pictures and other Photography. copy that cannot be set in type. Who am I? If you are a Girl Scout, see if your local troop has the From Dreams to Reality program ofcareer 4. I make duplicate plates from the forms turned out exploration. Troops also offer proficiency badges by the composing room workers. These are used for jobs in a number of areas, including photography. that demand volume printing, such as books and maga- zines. Who am I? Artistic ability is necessary for the compositor in a small shop who does layout work. Design a collage or poster 5. I operate machinery that folds, sews, staples, and for a school activity or a community event. binds printed items. Who am I?

29 Exploring Careers

6. I deal with the public, trying to get new business schedule set up for every job we do. Who am I? foi the printing company. Selling this service requires a knowledge of printing technology and the ability to Bookbinder advise customers about their particular needs. Who am Production manager I? Electrotyper Printing press operator 7. i take the manuscript and rough ideas from the client and then plan the design of the job. I prepare the Proofreader job for the composing room workers. Who am I? Layout artist Photoengraver 8.I oversee the entire production process, following Printing sales representative each job from the planning stage to the delivery to the customer. I must see that we stick to the budget and time See answers at the end of chapter.

30 Industrial Production Occupations

Job Facts

There isn't room In this book for a story about every industrial productionoccupation. However, you'll find some important facts about 33 ofthese occupations in the following section. If you want additional information aboutany of them, you might begin by consulting the Department of Labor'sOccupational Outlook Handbook, which should be available in your schoolor public library.

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information FOUNDRY OCCUPATIONS

Patternmakers Foundrypattemmakers are Precision, accuracy, and manualPattemmakers work indoors in highly skilled craftworkers. They dexterity are very important. Pat-well-lighted, well-ventilated make the metal or wood patterns ternmakers work from blueprintsareas and are not exposed to the that are used in producing indus- and check dimensions with in-heat and noise of the foundry trial and household goods fromstruments such as micrometersfloor. Although not strenuous, metal castings. and . To read blueprints,patternmaking requires consid- they must be able to visualize erablestandingand moving Most patternmakers workin objects in three dimensions. about. shops that make and sell castings. The rest work in plants that make Apprenfjceship, usually lasting 5 Becausepatternmakerslearn castings to use in their final prod- years, is the best way of learningeitherbasicmetalworkingor ucts, such as plants operated by to be a pattemmaker. A few ap-woodworking, they are qualified manufacturers of automobiles orprenticeships last only 3 or 4for related jobsas machinists machinery. years. Although it is difficult toor cabinetmakers, for example. learn the trade on the job, some skilledmachiniststransferto metal pattemmaking with addi- tional on-the-job training and experience.

Employers almost always require apprentices to have a high school educadun. Vocational and tech- nical school training in pattern- making, metalworking, and ma- chining may be credited toward completion of the apprentice- ship.

31 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Molders Molders make sand molds for PeoplebecomeskilledhandWorking conditionsvary.In use in producing metal castings.molders by completing a 4-yearolder foundries, work isper- Most are machine molders; theyapprenticeship program or learn-formed in a dusty, noisy, dirty, operate molding machines thating the work informally throughhot atmosphere.Infoundries pack and ram the sand mechan-on-the-job training. Less skilledwith improved ventilation and ically. Others are hand molders,hand molding jobs and most ma-air-conditioning, there is much and use manual methods and chinemolding jobscanbe less heat and dust. power tools to construct sandlearned with 2 to 6 months of on- molds. the-job training, but employersThe work is physically demand- prefer those with apprenticeshiping and may be hazardous at Molders work in shops that make training. times. Molders must be careful to and sell castings, or in plants that avoid burns from hot metal. make castings to use in their final products. While an eighth grade z-incation usually is the minimum require- ment for apprenticeship, many employers preferhighschool graduates.

Coremakers Coremakers prepare the "cores" Peoplebecomeskilledhand Coremaking is one of the least that are placed in molds to form coremakers by completing a 4-hazardous foundry jobs. the hollow sections in metal cast- year apprenticeship program, or ings. Cores are made either by learningthe work informally hand or by machine. When handthrough on-the-job training. Ap- methods are used, the coremaker prenticeships also are sometimes uses mallets and other handtools required for more difficult ma- to pack sand into the corebox. chine coremaking jobs. Machinecoremakersoperate machines that pack the sand. Apprenticeships in coremaking and molding often are combined. Coremakers work in shops that make and sellcastings or inWhile an eighth grade education plants that make castings to useusually is the minimum require- in their final products. ment for coremaking appren- tices, most employers prefer ap- prentices who are high school graduates.

32 LV Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information MACHINING OCCUPATIONS

All-round Machinists Machinistsareskilledmetal- Precision and accuracy are veryAll-round machinists can oper- workers. They use metalworking important.Machinistsconsultate most types of machine tools, machines of various kinds toblueprints before beginning towhereas machine tool operators make and repair metal parts,make a machined product, andgenerally work with one kind tools, and machines. check the results with precision only. instruments such as . Most machinists work in facto- Machinists must followstrict ries that produce metal productsA 4-year formal apprenticeship such as automobiles and machin- safety regulations when working isthe best training, althougharound ery. Almost every factory using high-speed machine many machinists learn this trade tools. Short-sleeved shirts, safety substantial amounts of machin-on the job. A high school or vo- ery employs all-round machinists glasses, and other devicesare re- cational school education is de-quired to reduce accidents. tomaintainitsmechanical sirable. equipment. The Federal Govern- ment employsmachinistsin Opportunities for advancement Navy Yards and other places. are good. With additional train- ing, machinists can become tool- Leading areas of employmentare and-die makers. Skilled machin- LosAngeles,Chicago,New ists can open their own shops. York, Philadelphia, Boston, San Francisco, and Houston. Many machinists are members of unions.

Instrument Makers Instrument makers work withPrecision and accuracy are im-Instrument assembly rooms are (Mechanical) scientists and engineers to trans- portant, for instrument makerssometimesknownas"white late designs and ideas into exper- often work to very fine toler-rooms" because almost sterile imental or custom-built mechan-ances. They need spatial and rea- conditions are maintained. ical equipment. Most of themsoning ability, plus imagination work for firms that manufacture and resourcefulness, for they of- Serious work accidents are not instruments or for research andten work from rough sketches or developmentlaboratoriesthat ideas rather than detailed blue- common, but safety rules require make special devices for scien- prints. the wearing of =win apparatus tific research. The Federal Gov- and clothing. ernment also employs instrument Some instrument makers ad- makers. vance from the ranks of machin- Many instrument makers are un- ists or skilled machine tool op- ion members. The main centers of instrument erators by completing 1 or 2 making are in and around New years or more of instrument shop York, Chicago,Los Angeles,experience. Others learn their Boston, Philadelphia, Washing- trade through 4-year apprentice- ton: Detroit, Buffalo, and Cleve-ships. land. Employers generally prefer high school graduates for apprentice- ship programs, and additional technical school training is desir- able. r

33 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Machine Tot... These workers use machine tools Machine tool operators usuallyMost operators stand a great deal Operators such as lathes, drill presses, mill- learn their skills on the job. Mostof the time and work in a rela- ingmachines,grindingma- are semiskilled operators; they tively small space. chines, and presses to perform simple repetitive opera- shape metal. tions that can be learned in justMachine tool operators have job a few months. Becoming a skilledtitles that refer to the machine Most work in factories that pro. operator often requires 1 to 2they operate: Drill press opera- duce metal products, transporta- years of experience and on-the-tor,milling machine operator, tion equipment, and machinery.job training. Some companiesand the like. Skilled machine tool operators have formal training programs also work in production depart- for new employees. Skilled machine tool operators ments, maintenance depart- may become all-round machin- ments, and toolrooms. Although no special education isists, tool-and-die makers, or ad- required, courses in mathematicsvance to machine maintenance Employment is concentrated in and blueprint reading are help-jobs. major industrial areas including ful. the Great Lakes region, Los An- Most machine tool operators be- geles,Philadelphia,St.Louis, and Indianapolis. long to unions.

Setup Workers Theseskilledworkers,often They must meet the same quali-Because they work with high- (Machine Tools) called machine tool job setters,fications as all-round machinists. speed machine tools that have prepare large complex tools such Good judgment is needed to se- sharp cutting edges, setup work- as a drill press or lathe for use.lect the sequence of operationsers must follow certain safety They consult blueprints, writtenso that metal parts will be made practices. specifications, or job layouts: se-according to specifications. The lect and install proper cutting or ability to communicate clearly isMany setup workers are mem- other tools; and adjust guides, important in explaining the ma- bers of unions. stops, and othei controls. Theychinery operations to semiskilled explain to semiskilled operatorsworkers. Setup workers may ad- how to run the machine. vancetoshopsupervisoror transfer to other jobs such as They work in factories that man- parts programmer. ufacture fabricated metal prod- ucts, transportation equipment, and machinery.

Employment is concentrated in major industrial areas including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, New York,Chicago,Detroit,and Cleveland.

34 Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Tool-and-Die Makers These highlyskilled,creative Mechanical ability, finger dex- Because of their extensive skills workers produce tools, dies, and terity, an aptitudefor precise andknowledge,tool-and-die special guiding and holding de- work,andagoodworking makers are able to change jobs vices used by other machiningknowledge of mathematics andwithin machining occupations workers to mass-produce metalphysics are important. more easily thanlessskilled parts. They have a broad knowl- workers. edge of machining operations, They obtain their skills in a va- mathematics, and blueprint read-riety of ways including formal As with other machining work- ing; use almost every type of ma- apprenticeship. chine tool and precision measur- vocationalers, they wear protective glasses school, and on-the-job training. when working around metal-cut- ing instrument; and do repair ting work. A 4-year apprenticeship proba- machines. Tool-and-die bly is the best way to learn theshops usually are safer than sim- trade. ilaroperationsinproduction Most work in plants that produce plants. manufacturing, construction, Most employers prefer persons and farm machinery.Others work in automobile, aircraft, andwith high school or trade school Many are members of unions. other transportation equipmenteducationforapprenticeships. Several years of experience after industries,smalltool-and-die shops, and electrical machineryapprenticeship often are neces- and fabricated metal industries. sary to qualify for more difficult work. About one-fifth work in the De- troit and Flint, Chicago, and Los Some advance tosupervisory Angeles areas. Employment also and administrative positions in industry: many become tool de- isconcentratedinCleveland, New York, Newark, Dayton, and signers; others open their own shops. Buffalo.

PRINTING OCCUPATIONS

Compositors Compositors set type. Nearly allSkilled compositors usually learnWorking conditions vary from compositors use machines and their trade through a 6-year ap- plant to plant. Some are hot and press keys similar to a type- prenticeship. This period may be noisy. In general. new plants are writer's. Type is set by hand only less for apprentices who have al- well-lighted and clean. for very special printing jobs. ready worked in the printing in- dustry. Shorter apprenticeshipsMany compositorsareunion Most compositors work for news- also are customary for people members. paper plants. or for commercial who have had courses in printing printing plants, book and maga- technology. zine printers, and printing plants. Some work for banks, insurance Applicantsforapprenticeship companies, advertising agencies,generally must be high school manufacturers. and other firmsgraduates. Courses in mathemat- that do their own printing. ics and English, especially spell- ing. are important, and a back- ground in electronics and pho- tography is increasingly useful.

35 Exploring Careers

Occ-u, ation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Lithographers Lithography, also known as off- Lithographic craft workers usu- Although the work is not stren- set printing, is a printing process ally must complete a 4- or 5-year uous, lithographers are on their in which thematerial to be apprenticeshipprogram.Ap- feet much of the time. They printed is either drawn or repro- prenticeship applicants usually sometimes are under pressure to duced photographically on a flat must be high school graduates meet publication deadlines. metal plate. Then the plate is and at least 18 years old. treated chemically so that the Many lithographers are union printing areas will attract inkSome lithographers learnthe members. while the nonprinting areas repel craft by taking a 2-year program it and stay blank. in printing technology at a tech- nical institute, junior college, or Lithographic workers specialize college. in different steps of the printing process. Some are camera oper- High school courses in printing, ators; others are artists, strippers, photography, mathematics, or platemakers. chemistry, physics, and art are helpful. Lithographers work for commer- cial printing plants, newspapers, and book and magazine printers. Some work for the U.S. Govern- ment Printing Office.

Photoengravers Photoengravers make metal Most learn through a 5-year ap- Although the work is not stren- printing plates of drawings, pho- prenticeship program. Appren-uous, photoengravers stand up tographs, and other copy thatticeship applicants must be at much of the time. Good eyesight cannot be setintype. These least 18 years old and generallyis particularly important because plates are then printed in the let- must have a high school or vo- of the close work and color dis- terpress process. cational school education. crimination involved. Over half work in shops that Most photograversareunion make photoengravings for other members. printing firms. Other employers includenewspapers,photoen- graver shops, book and magazine printers, and the Federal Gov- ernment. Some photoengravers have their own shops.

Electrotypers and These workers make duplicate Nearly all complete 5- to 6-year Although operations are highly Stereotypers press plates of metal, rubber, and apprenticeships. Electrotyping mechanized,someliftingof plastic for letterpress printing. and stereotypingare separate heavy press plates occasionally is Duplicate plates are used when crafts and relatively few transfers required. there is a large volume of print-take place between the two. Ap- ing to be done. prenticeship applicants must be Nearly all electrotypers and ster- at least 18 years old. eotypers are union members. Electrotypers work mostlyin plants that print books and mag- azines. Most stereotypers work for newspaper plants. Electrotyp- ers and stereotypers also are em- ployed in shops that provide this service for printing firms.

36 Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Printing Press These workers set up, adjust, andMostpressoperatorslearn Operators Pressrooms are noisy and work- operate offset,letterpress, and throughapprenticeship,whileers in some areas wear ear pro- gravure printing presses. some learn as helpers or presstectors. Press operators are sub- assistants.Others obtaintheirject to hazards when working Over half work in commercialskills through a combination ofnear machinery. They sometimes printing plants or in the print- work experience and vocationalwork under pressure to meet shops of book, newspaper, and or technical school training. deadlines. magazinepublishers.Others work for banks, insurance com- The length of apprenticeship and Many pressroom workers are panies, manufacturers, and other un- the content of training dependion members. organizations that do their ownlargely upon the kind of press printing. used in the plant. Apprentice- ships in commercial shops gen- erally last 2 years for press assist- ants and 4 to 5 years for press operators.

Mechanical aptitude is important in making press adjustments and repairs. The ability to visualize color is essential for work on color presses. Physical strength and endurance are needed for work on some kinds of presses, where operators lift heavy plates and stand for long. periods.

Bookbinders and Bookbinders glue, sew, or staple A 4- or 5-year apprenticeshipBookbinding shops are Bindery Workers noisy the pages and the covers togethergenerally is required to qualifywhen machinery isoperating. to produce a book. They operate as a skilled bookbinder. Appren- Long periods of standing and machines and do some of theticeship applicants usually mustconstant use of the arms can be work by hand. have a high school education andtiring. be at least 18 years old. Many work in shops that spe- Many bindery workers cialize are union in bookbinding. OthersAlthough most bindery workers members. work in bindery departments oflearn their tasks through on-the- book publishing firms, commer-job training lasting from several cial printing plants, and large li-months to 2 years, many learn braries. through formal apprenticeship.

Some skilled bookbinders work Accuracy,patience,neatness, in hand binderies. They designand good eyesight are qualities original bindings for a limitedneeded by bookbinders. Good number of copies of a large edi-finger dexterity is necessary for tion, or restore and rebind rareworkers who count, insert, paste, books. and fold.

37 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

OTHER INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION AND RELATED OCCUPATIONS

Assemblers Following instructions or dia-Speed and accuracy, manualAssembly jobs tend to be more grams, assemblers put together dexterity,patience, good eye- monotonous than other blue-col- the parts of manufactured itemssight, and physical fitness may lar jobs. Working conditions dif- using hand and machine tools.be important. Assemblers oftenfer, depending on the job per- Many perform a single operationwork with very small parts. Floor formed. Some work inclean, on an assembly line. Others have assemblers may have to lift andwell-lighted rooms while others more complex jobs: Bench as-fit heavy objects. Skilled assem-work in noisy, dirty areas. Some semblers may make steering col- blers use precision measuring in- are under pressure to keep up umns for automobiles, build ri- struments and must know how towith the speed of assembly lines. fles, or put together the small read blueprints and other engi-Work schedules may vary at components used in radios; floor neering specifications. plants with more than one shift. assemblers puttogetherlarge machinery or equipment on shop Inexperiencedpeoplecanbe Many assemblers are members of floors; highly skilled assemblerstrained in a few days or weeks. unions. may have to wire tubes for aLonger training is required for television set or put together and skilled assembly jobs. test a calculator. High school graduation usually Allworkin manufacturingis not required. However, some plants,almosttwo-thirdsin employers prefer applicants with plants that makemachinery andmechanical aptitude and voca- motor vehicles. tional school training. Over half work in the heavily industrialized States of Califor- nia, New York, Michigan, Illi- nois. Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

Automobile Painters These skilled workers repaintGood health, keen eyesight, andThey may wear protective equip- older vehicles that have lost the a good color sense are very im- ment because of fumes. luster of their original paint andportant. Agility also is vital as make body repairs almost invis-they often bend and stoop to Many painters belong to unions. ible. They remove old paint by reach all parts of the car. sanding, fill nicks and scratches with body putty, and mix paints Mostautopaintersstartas when necessary. helpers and gain skills by work- ing with experienced painters. Almost two-thirds work in shopsBecoming highly skilled requires that specialize in automobile re-3 to 4 years of on-the-job train- pairs. Most others work for au-ing. A few learn by completing tomobileandtruckdealers. 3-year apprenticeship programs. Some work for organizations that maintain and repair their ownHigh school graduation is not re- fleets of vehicles, such as truck-quired, but may be an advantage ingcompaniesandbuslines. since it shows reliability and per- Many experienced painters openseverance. Experienced painters their own shops. may advance to shop supervisor, while those with the necessary funds open their own shops.

38 Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Blacksmiths Blacksmiths make and repairGood physical conditioning isA blacksmith's job may be haz- equipment and other items made importantbecausepoundingardous. Blacksmiths are subject of metal. Those who specialize in metal and handling heavy tools to burns from and heated shoeing horses are called farriers. and parts require strength andmetals and cuts and bruises from stamina. Farriers must have thehandling tools. They often wear Almost two-thirds work in fac-patience to handle horses. protective devices. tories, railroads, and mines. The remainder work in small shops, Many beginners enter the occu-Some farrilr jobs are seasonal and most are self-employed. pation by working as helpers.and may involve long hours, Others complete 3- or 4-year ap- weekend work and much travel. Most farriers are self-employed prenticeship programs that teach and contract their servicesto blueprint reading, proper use ofMany blacksmiths belong to un- horse trainers at racetrack stables tools and equipment, heat-treat- ions. and to owners of horses used for ment of metal, and forging meth- private or public recreation. ods.

Many farriers learn by assisting experienced workers. Some take courses in horseshoeing at a col- legeorprivatehorseshoeing school. At least 3 to 5 years of experience are required to obtain skillsnecessary to shoe race- horses.Farriers who wish to work at racetracks must pass a licensing exam.

Blue-Collar Worker These workers train new employ- Most. supervisors are promotedSupervisors generally work more Supervisors ees, maintain employee and pro- through the ranks. Experience,than 40 hours a week and some- duction records, plan and sched- skill, and leadership qualities are times do paperwork at home. ule work, and prepare reports on vital.Employers place special They may receive overtime pay. production, cost, personnel, and emphasis on the ability to moti-Working conditions vary and safety. vate employees, maintain highsome are subjected to noisy, dirty morale, command respect, andconditions. On the other hand, Over half work in manufactur- get along with people. they have more challenging and ing, supervising the production prestigious jobs than most blue- of cars, washing machines, or any Completion of high school is the collar workers. of thousands of other products. minimum educational require.. Most of the remainder work in ment. A college or technical theconstructionindustry,in school background can be help- wholesale and retail trade, and in ful,particularlyinindustries public utilities. with highl:' 'chnical production processes.

39 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Boilermaking Boilerretakersassemble,erect, Physical strength and staminaThe work may be hazardous. Occupations dismantle, and repair boilers and are required to do the heavy Boilermakersoftenworkin other pressure vessels. They usework, and manual dexterity anddamp, poorly ventilated, power tools and devices such as mechanical aptitude are neededcramped quarters and sometimes oxyacetylenetorches,welding to handle tools. at great heights. Workers often equipment, power shears, and wear protective equipment. rigging equipment. Layout work-Many people have become boil- ers follow blueprints in markingermakers by working for severalMost workers belong to unions. off lines on metal plates andyears as helpers to experienced tubes. Fitters see that boiler parts boilermakers, but a 4-year ap- fit together properly before as-prenticeshipisconsidered the sembly. best way to learn this trade. Most layout workers and titters are Boilermakers work in the con-hired as helpers to experienced struction industry, in iron andworkers, and they take about 2 steel plants, petroleum refineries,years to become highly skilled. railroads, shipyards, and electricEmployers prefer high school or powerplants. Some work in Navyvocational school graduates as shipyards and Federal power-apprentices or helpers. plants. Layout workers and fit- ters work mainly in plants that make fire-tube and water-tube boilers, heat exchangers, heavy tanks, and similar products.

Boiler Tenders Boiler tenders operate and main- Persons learn through on-the-job They have to work in awkward tain the steam boilers that powertraining as a helper in a boilerpositions and may be exposed to industrial machinery and heat room. Some high school courses noise, heat, grease, fumes, and factories,offices,andotherare helpful. Applicants for helpersmoke. They also are subject to buildings. They also may operatejobs should be in good physicalburns, falls, and injury from de- waste heat boilers that burn trashcondition and have mechanicalfective boilers or moving parts. and other solid waste. aptitude and manual dexterity. Modern equipment and safety procedures, however, have re- About half work infactories. Some large cities and a few Statesduced accidents. Plants that manufacture lumber, require boiler tenders to be li- iron and steel, paper, chemicals, censed. Two types of licenses ex- Some boiler tenders are union and stone, clay, and glass prod-istfor low pressure and highmembers. ucts are among leading employ-pressure boilers. Because of re- ers. Others work for public utili- gional differences in licensing re- ties and in hospitals, schools, andquirements, one who moves to Federal, State, and local govern- another city or State may have to ment. pass an exam for a new license.

40 Industrial ProductionOccupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information .Electroplaters Electroplatersuse an electro- An eye for detail, patience, man-The work may be hazardous. chemical process to give metal ualdexterity, and good eye-They are subject to burns from articles such as silverware, jew- hand-arm coordination are im-splashing acids and inhalation of elry, and jet engine parts a pro- portant. They must carefully toxic fumes. Humidity and odors tective surface or an attractivestudy job specifications for each also are problems. Workers may appearance. item to be plated and mustex- wear protective clothing. amine their work for defects. In About half work in shops thataddition, good physical condi- specialize in metal plating and Some platers are members of un- tion is important as workersmay ions. polishing. Other platers work inhave to lift and carry heavy ob- plants that make plumbing fix-jects at times. tures, cooking utensils, house- hold appliances, electronic com-Most learn by helping experi- ponents,motor vehicles,and enced workers, and it usually metal products. takes at least 3 years to become an all-round plater. A small pro- portion work for 3 or 4 years as apprentices.

Some high school or vocational school courses are helpful, and a few people take a 1- or 2-year electroplating course in a junior college, technical institute, or vo- cational high school.

Furniture Furniture upholsterers repair orManual dexterity, coordination, Upholsterers Working conditions vary. Some replace fabrics, springs, padding, an eye for detail, good colorshops are large and clean while and other parts of furniture that sense, patience, and a flair for othersaresmallanddusty. are worn or damaged. They usecreative work are helpful. Occa- Workers stand whale they work tack and staple removers, pliers,sional heavy lifting may bere- and do stooping, bending, and hammers, hand or power shears,quired. some heavy lifting. webbing stretchers,upholstery needles, and sewing machines. Most people complete about 3Some upholsterersare union years of on-the-job training be- members. Over three-fourths own and op- fore becoming fully skilled. Vo- erate or work in small upholsterycational or high school courses in shops. Some work in furnitureupholstery are helpful. stores and for businesses, such as hotels, that maintain their own furniture.

41 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualcations Other Information Forge Shop Before metal can be shaped, itForge shop workers must 6eThe work is more hazardous than Occupations must be heated in intensely hotstrong enough to lift and move mos'manufacturingoccupa- furnaces (forges) until it is soft. heavy and dies. Theytions. Workers are subjectto Forge shop workers place the need the stamina and endurance noise, vibration,heat, and heated metal between two metalto work in the heat and noise ofsmoke. Workers may wear pro- dies that are attached to power- a forge shop. tective equipment. presses or In/enters. The ham- mers or presses pound or squeeze Most learn their skills on the job. Most workers are union mem- the metal into the desired shape. They generally join hammer orbers. Hammersmiths direct the opera-press crews as helpers or heaters, tion of open die power hammers; and progress to other jobs as they hammer operators manipulate gainexperience.Someforge impression die power hammers; shops offer 4-year apprenticeship pressoperatorscontrolhuge programs for skilled jobs such as presses equipped with dies; up-die-sinker, heat treater, hammer settersoperate machinesthatoperator,hammersmith,and shape hot metal; heaters controlpress operator. Training require- furnace temperatures; inspectors ments for inspectors range from examine forged pieces for accu- a few weeks to several months of racy, size, and quality; die sinkers on-the-job training. make impression dies for forging hammers and presses; trimmers, Employers usually do not require grinders, sandblasters or shot- a high school diploma, but grad- blasters,picklers,andheat uates may be preferred. treaters are involved in cleaning and finishing operations.

About three-fourthsworkin shops that make and sell forg- ings. The remainder work in plants that use forgings in their final products, such as plants op- erated by manufacturers of au- tomobiles, farm equipment, and handtools.

Employment is concentrated in and around Detroit. Chicago, Cleveland,LosAngeles, and Pittsburgh.

42 Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Inspectors Inspectors make certainthat Inspectors generally are trained Working conditions vary consid- (Manufacturing) products meet specifications. For ofthe job for a brief perioderably. Some have well-lighted, example, they may taste-test soft from a few hours or days to sev-air-conditioned workplaces drinks, use tools such as gaugeseral months, depending on the while others are exposed to high and magnifying glasses to makeskill requirements. Preferences oftemperature,oil,grease,and sureairplanesare assembledemployers vary widely with re- noise. properly, or examine a jacket forspect to education, experience, flaws. and qualifying aptitudes. GoodMany inspectors are members of health and eyesight, accuracy, unions. Two-thirds work in plants thatand the ability to pay attention produce durable goods such asto detail, work with numbers, machinery, transportation equip- and get along with people may ment, electronics equipment, andbe important. furniture. Others work in plants that produce goods such as tex- tiles, apparel, and leather prod- ucts.

Almost two-thirds work in Ohio, New York, Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, California, New Jersey, North Carolina, and In- diana.

Millwrights Millwrights prepare machinery Mechanical aptitude is vital be- The work may be hazardous, and for use in a plant. This may in-cause millwrights work with var-workers wear protective devices. volve constructing concrete foun-ious tools while putting together In addition to the dangers of dations or wooden platforms,and taking apart complex ma-being struck by falling objects or dismantling existing equipment, 1;hinery. Strength and agility also machinery or falling from high and moving, assembling, and;ireimportantbecausemill- places, millwrights are subject to maintaining machinery. wrights do much lifting andthe usual hazards of cuts and climbing. The ability to give and bruises. Most work for manufacturingcarry out instructions accurately companies. The majority are inand analyze and solve problems also is important. Millwrights employed by facto- transportation equipment, metal, ries generally work year round. paper,lumber, and chemical Those employed by some con- product's industries. Others work Some spend 6 to 8 years learning struction companies may experi- for contractors in the construc-the trade informally on the job ence periods of unemployment. tion industry; machinery manu-as helpers to skilled workers. However,theyusuallyearn facturers employ a small num-Others complete 4-year formalhigher wages. Frequently these ber. apprenticeship programs. millwrights travel.

Employment is concentrated in ApplicantsforapprenticeorMost millwrights belong to un- Detroit, Pittsburgh, Cleveland,helper jobs must be at least 17 ions. Buffalo. and the Chicago-Garyyears old. Some employers prefer area. high school or vocational school graduates.

43 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Motion Picture Motion picture projectionists op- Good eyesight and normal colorMost work evenings on week- Projectionists erate and maintain movie projec- perception, good hearing, man-days, generally 4 to .6 hours, and tors and sound equipment. Theyual dexterity, mechanical apti-10 hours or more on Saturdays may inspect film, load and starttude, and a temperament for per-or Sundays. Some work at sev- the machine, adjust light and routine work alone areeral theaters. In small towns, they sound, make the changeover toimportant. usually work only part time be- a second machine at the end of cause of the small number of a reel, rewind film, splice filmMost theaters are unionized, and shows. Those at drive-ins, partic- when required, and make re- union membership requirements ularly in northern States, may be pairs. Many of these functionsvary considerably among the lo- laid off during the winter. are automated in modern thea-cals. Applicants often must work ters. for trial periods lasting several The work is not strenuous and is weeks or complete union training relatively safe, but there is the The majority work for indoor programs without compensation. danger of electrical shock and theaters. Most of the remainderThey may have to pass a written acid burns from the projector's work for drive-ins, while someexam before becoming a union lamp. work for large manufacturing member. companies,colleges,television studios, and Federal, State, andUrions prefer high school grad- local governments. :n a few cities and States, projectionists must be licensed, often before applying for union membership.

Ophthalmic Ophthalmic laboratory techni-Because they work with ma- Work surroundings are noisy be- Laboratory cians (also called optical me-chines and small handtools, fin-cause of power grinding and pol- Technicians chanics) make eyeglasses. Theger dexterity, some mechanical ishing machines. two types of technicians are sur-ability, patience, and a liking for facer (lens grinder) and bench precision work are important. Some technicians are members technician (finisher).In small of unions. laboratories,one person mayThe vast majority learn their perform both functi'ns; in largeskills on the job, usually taking laboratories, theseaties may be 3 years to become all-round me- performed by several people. chanics. High school graduates may learn by completing 3- to 4- Most work in ophthalmic labo-year apprenticeship programs, ratories but some work for retailand most authorities agree that opticaldispensariesorotherthis training leads to more op- stores that sell prescription len- portunities. Some technicians re- ses. A few work for eye physi- ceivetraininginthe Armed cians or optometrists who dis-Forces or complete 9-month vo- pense glasses directly to patients. cational school programs and then receive on-the-job training.

Employers prefer high school graduates. Some States require licenses.

44 Industrial Production Occupations

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Photographic Photographic laboratory workers For many photography labora-In some labs, employeesmay Laboratory develop film, make prints and tory jobs, manual dexterity, good work much overtime during the Occupations slides, and perform related tasksvision, including normal colorsummer and other peak periods, such as enlarging and retouchingperception, and good hand-eyeand temporary workers may be photographs.All-rounddark-coordination are important. employed during these peaks. room technicians can perform all the tasks necessary to develop Most darkroom technicians learnIn many semiskilled occupations, and print film. Color technicians their skills on the job, taking specializein the work is repetitious and the processing colorabout 3 rars to become fully pace is rapid. Some workers are film. Darkroom technicians are qualified. Employers prefer highsubject to eye fatigue. assisted by specialized workers school graduates. Training is of- such as developers, printers, and feredinhighschools,trade retouchers. Other workers in- schools, and the Armed Forces. clude film numberers, who sort A few colleges offer 2-year pro- film according to the type ofgrams in photographic technol- processing needed; film strippers, ogy. who unwind rolls of film and place them in developing ma- chines; printer operators, who Semiskilledphotolabworkers operate machines that expose train on the job for a few weeks rolls of photographic paper to to several months. negatives; machine print devel- opers, who operate machines that Manydarkroom technicians develop theserolls;chemical eventually become professional mixers, who combine chemicals photographers. that make up developing solu- tions; slide mounters, who oper- ate machines that cut, insert, and seal slides in mounts; and pho- tocheckers and assemblers, who inspect finished slides and prints and package them for customers.

Most semiskilled workers are employed by large photofinish- ing labs that specialize in proc- essing film for amateur photog- raphers. A large proportion of darkroom technicians work in labs operated by portrait and commercial studios,manufac- turers, newspaper and magazine publishers, advertising ager and other organizations. some work in commercial labs special- izinginprocessing work of professional photographers.

45 Exploring Careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information

Power Truck PowertruckoperatorsdriveOperators need manual dexter- Work may be hazardous, and op- Operators trucks with lifting mechanisms to ity,,strength, and stamina toerators may be exposed to all move heavy materials. Operatorsdrive the truck and to load andkinds of weather. Operators are must follow special proceduresunload goods. They need goodsubject to collisions and falling when uswg a truck at a plant,eyesight, including good depthobjects; some transport dirty ma- warehouse, or construction site.perception, to pick up, move, and terial. However, working condi- They may manually load and un-deposit loads. They often need tions are being improved. load, keep records of materialsmechanical abilityto perform moved, and maintain trucks inminor maintenance. Large firms good working condition. generally require applicants to pass a physical examioation. Aboutthree-fourthsworkin manufacturing industries. Many They train on the job for several work in plants that make auto- days, but it usually takes several mobiles, machinery, fabricatedweeks to reach maximum effi- metal products, paper, buildingciency. materials, and iron and steel. Many also work in warehouses, depots, freight and marine ter- minals, and mines.

Production Painters Production painters apply var-Production painters need goodThe job may be hazardous as nish, lacquer, paint, and othereyesight to distinguish colors andpainters are exposed to fumes finishes to the surface of manu-check for even application ofand noises. Workers may wear factured items. Most painters use paint. The job also demands aprotective clothing and appara- sprayguns while others use au-tolerance forrepetitious work tus. tomaticequipmentsuchas and goodphysicalcondition spraying machines, dippingsince painters stand for long pe-Some painters are union mem- tanks,andtumblingbarrels. riods of time and often work in bers. They may use masking tape to awkward and cramped positions. prevent colors from overlapping, mix paint, and clean equipment.No formalapprenticeshipor Asproductionlinesbecome trainingexists.Workers may more automated, painters mustspend from a few days to several learn to use modern machinerymonths acquiring their skills on such as electrostatic applicatorsthe job. High school graduation and powder-type painting sys-may be needed for advancement. tems. A few painters become supervi- sors. About two-thirds work in plants that make automobiles, machin- ery, furniture and other wood products, or manufactured metal products such as cans, tinware, and handtools.

-"" 46 II IUtill,11t11rruuuctionuccupations .....,..,... Occupation Nature and Place.; of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Stationary Engineers Stationaryengineersoperate Good physical condition is im-Workers may be assigned toany boilers, generators, turbines,con- portant because these workersone of three shifts around the densers, and other equipmentmay crawl inside boilers andclock, and to weekend and holi- that provide power, heat, air-work in crouching or kneelingday work. In many plants, only conditioning, and light. Theypositions. Mechanical aptitude, one engineer works on each shift. regularlyinspectequipment,manual dexterity, andaccuracy check meters and gauges, andalso are important. make minor repairs. Theymay The work may be hazardousas supervise others. workers may be exposed to heat, Many start as helpersor oilersdust, dirt, oil and grease, and and acquire their skillson the Places of employment include fumes or smoke. They alsoare job. A good backgroundcan besubject to burns, electric shock, power stations, factories, sewage obtained in the Navy or Mer-and injury from moving machin- and water treatment plants, of-chant Marine. However, most ery; fices and apartment buildings, training authorities recommend hotels,hospitals, and Federal,a formal 4-year apprenticeship. State, and local governments. High school or trade school grad- Some stationary engineersare uates are preferred for appren-union members. ticeship.

Many States and localities have licensing requirements. Al- though licensingrequirements differ from place to place, appli- cants usually must be 18 years old, reside for a specified period in the area in which theexam is given, meet experience require- ments, and pass a written exam. One who moves to anotherarea may have to obtain a new license.

Wastewater Wastwater treatment plant oper- Mechanical aptitude and com-Many operators in small towns Treatment atorscontrolandmaintain petence in basic mathematics are Plant Operators work part time. They work dif- pumps, pipes, and valves thatimportant. Operators also mustferent shifts and may have to send harmful domestic and in- be agile as they must climb lad-work overtime in anemergency. dustrial waste to treatment facil- ders and move easily around ities. They may read and inter- heavy machinery. pret meters and gauges to check They may be exposed to odors, plant equipment; operate chemi- as well as noise from the opera- Trainees startas cal feeding devices to remove helpers andtion of electrical motors and learn their skills on the job. Em- pumps. pollutants; take samples of waterployers prefer high school grad- for laboratory analysis; and test and adjust the level of chlorineuates and in some States this is a minimum requirement. Some 2- in the water. They keep recordsyear associate degree programs and may make minor repairsus- in ing a variety of tools. wastewater technology are available. Most work in municipal plants In many States, supervisors and and private industry while some work in Federal installations. certain operators mustpass an exam to certify that they are ca- pable of overseeing plantopera- tions. There are different classes of certification for different sizes of plants. These alsomay entail education and experiencere- quirements.

47 txpionng careers

Occupation Nature and Places of Work Training and Qualifications Other Information Welders Welders join two or more piecesManual dexterity, good eyesight, Welders work in the presence of of metal by applying intense heat and good eye-hand coordination toxic gases. fumes, rust, grease. and adding filler materials when are important. Workers shouldand dirt. They wear protective necessary.These permanentlybe able to concentrate on de- clothing and devices. connected metal parts are thentailed work for long periods, and used in the construction of cars,should be in good physical con-Many welders are union mem- ships, household appliances, anddition since welders bend, stoop, bers. thousands of otherproducts. and work in awkward positions. Jobs vary from those of highly skilled manual welders who canIt takes several years of training use welding equipment in moreto become a skilled welder. Some than one position and who ct:nof the less skilled jobs can be plan their work from drawingslearned in a few months or less. and other specifications to thoseA few companies offer appren- of unskilled welding machine ticeshipprograms.Employers tenders who simply press a but-preferapplicantswithhigh ton to start a machine. school or vocational school train- ing in welding. Some welders Almost two-thirds help manufac-may be required to pass certifi- ture durable goods such as boil- cation exams. ers. bulldozers, trucks, ships, and heavy machinery. Most of theWelding machine operators may remainder repair metal productslearn skilled welding jobs; skilled or help construct bridges. largewelders may be promoted to in- buildings. and pipelines. spectors. technicians, or supervi- sors. Experienced workers with collegetraining may become welding engineers, while a few open their own shops.

Answers to Related Occupations

ASSEMBLER I. Sewing machine operator, 2. Spray painter, 3. Machine cutter, 4. Automatic print developer, 5. Machine packager. 6. Yarn winder,7.Ampoule filler,8. Cannery worker, 9. Knitting machine operator.

MACHINIST 1. b, 2. c, 3. g, 4. h. 5. e, 6. d, 7. a, 8. 11

PHOTOCOMPOSITOR

I.Printing press operator, 2. Proofreader, 3. Photoengraver, 4.Electrotyper, 5. Bookbinder, 6. Printing sales representative, 7. Layout artist, 8. Production manager.

Answers to math problems

MACHINIST 1. Three 2-meter bars with 90 centimeters of steel left over. 2. 35 teeth. 3. yes.

: 3 48 U.S. ,T.rf-C-PMMLNT PFINTIV, : 1980 - 1:6-::! Bureau of Labor Statistics Regional Offices

Region I Region IV Regions VII and VIII 1603 JFK Federal Building 1371 Peachtree Street, N.E. 911 Walnut Street Government Center Atlanta, Ga. 30309 Kansas City, Mo. 64106 Boston, Mass. 02203 Phone: (404) 881-4418 Phone: (816) 374-2481 Phone: (617) 223-6761 Region V Regions IX and X Region II 9th Floor 450 Golden Gate Avenue Suite 3400 Federal Office Building Box 36017 1515 Broadway 230 S. Dearborn Street San Francisco, Calif. 94102 New York, N.Y. 10036 Chicago, III. 60604 Phone: (415) 556-4678 Phone: (212) 944-3121 Phone: (312) 353-1880

Region III Region VI 3535 Market Street Second Floor P.O. Box 13309 555 Griffin Building Philadelphia, Pa. 19101 Dallas, Tex. 75202 Phone: (215) 596-1154 Phone: (214) 767-6971