To work as a tool and die maker, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete long-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required beyond high school.

Work experience

Working as a machinist is excellent preparation for this career.

On-the-job training

Many tool and die makers receive informal on-the-job training from an experienced worker. Trainees usually begin as helpers. They learn to operate a variety of machine tool and hand tools. On-the-job training lasts several years. Many people who are trained on the job began as machinists.