Is CNC still worth getting into in 2026?
I have a two year tech degree and currently work as a forklift operator. I became interested in CNC as a potential career so I completed the ACE milling training program and shortly after applied to a bunch of entry level operator roles. I had some really good interviews but was unable to land a role due to lack of hands on experience, which I completely understand.
So now I’ve re-enrolled in school to take a few hands-on classes to strengthen my resume and give employers more confidence in taking a chance on me. Is there anything else I can do to improve my chances of breaking into the field?
Right now I currently enjoy my forklift role. It’s low stress and pays close to $30 per hour, but there’s not much more growth in that field beyond that. CNC interests me because the long-term earning potential and career progression seem much better. I'm fine taking a pay cut for a couple of years if it leads to better opportunities down the road. For those of you in the industry, is making the switch worth it?
I’m in the midwest.