To work as an industrial machinery mechanic, 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. However, some mechanics have an associate degree in industrial maintenance.

On-the-job training

Most industrial machinery mechanics learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. You begin as a helper and perform basic tasks. As you gain experience, you learn more complex tasks. Training usually takes about four years.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be powerhouse mechanics. Training lasts 12 to 24 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

If you receive this type of training in the military, you may earn credit for previous work experience when you enter a civilian apprenticeship program.