To work as a sewing machine operator, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Some professional-technical schools offer courses in apparel production. This training may help you get a job. As sewing machines become more automated, training in computer technology and electronics is also helpful.

On-the-job training

Many sewing machine operators learn their skills on the job. Either experienced workers or sewing machine manufacturers teach you how to run the machines. This type of training usually lasts one month.