Skills
Metal Model Maker Skills & Tools
The technical skills, people skills and tools employers look for in metal model makers, and how to build and show them.
What skills do metal model makers need?
Metal Model Makers need technical skills such as machining, cad reading, and 3d printing, plus people skills like creativity and communication. They also use tools such as CNC mills and lathes and 3D printers.
Technical (hard) skills
- Machining
- CAD reading
- 3D printing
- Fabrication
- Measurement
- Problem-solving
People (soft) skills
- Creativity
- Communication
- Precision
- Patience
Tools, equipment and technology
- CNC mills and lathes
- 3D printers
- CAD software
- Micrometers
- Hand tools
- Welders
Skills in action: common tasks
These step-by-step guides show how metal model makers put their skills to work:
- How to turn a CAD model into a prototype part
- How to decide between machining and 3d printing
- How to give engineers useful prototype feedback
How to show these skills on a resume
- Lead your skills section with the technical skills from the job posting, for example, “Machining” and “CAD reading.”
- Prove soft skills with results: instead of listing “creativity,” describe a situation where you used it.
- List credentials such as NIMS machining credentials near the top, with the issuing organization and date.
- Use the employer’s vocabulary. Our metal model maker glossary covers the terms hiring managers expect.
How to build these skills
Formal training, supervised practice and certification are the most direct routes. Our Metal Model Maker training introduces each of these skills with plain-language lessons, procedures and a final knowledge check: a strong foundation before hands-on training or your first day.