Patternmaker

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Work Tasks

• Make patterns which are used to make molds for castings
• Study blueprints and plan how to make the parts
• Cut and shape the materials and put them in a mold
• Shape and finish the pattern so it is exactly right
• Work indoors for foundries and boat, automobile, and aircraft manufacturers
• Work with blueprints, metal, wood, plastic, squares, templates, hand and power tools, glue, nails, dowels, bolts, screws, scrapers, mallets, and chisels

Salary, Size & Growth

• $49,000 average per year ($23.50 per hour)
• A small occupation (13,400 workers in 2010)
• Expected to decline (0.4% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A high school diploma, 18 years of age or older, and an apprenticeship in patternmaking
• Skills/Courses: Courses in blueprint reading, shop math, shop practices, and mechanical drawing.