u/_testingdude

I'm 31 and currently work in software QA, with around 6 years experience and a Computer Science degree. I'm seriously considering switching into metrology/CMM programming because I'd like a more hands-on, technical career rather than being 100% desk-based.

I've started learning GD&T, coordinate systems etc. and have been looking into CMM programming tutorials (PC-DMIS/ZEISS Calypso) and I genuinely find it interesting and think the role would be a good fit for me.

For those working in metrology/CMM, how do you find it as a career?

I'm particularly interested in:

• What is the day-to-day work actually like?
• How stressful is the production environment?
• How good is job security/job mobility in the UK?
• Would you recommend it as a long-term career?

I'm attracted to it because it seems like a specialist, hands-on skill that's relatively resistant to AI/automation, but I don't want to romanticise it. I'm currently weighing it against staying in software QA, so I'd really appreciate honest opinions**.**

Thanks!

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for advice from people working in CMM, metrology, or precision engineering.

I’m currently 30 and have spent the last 6 years as a Software QA Analyst. I have a BSc in Computer Science and experience with software testing, automation, APIs, databases, and quality processes.

I’m considering a career change because I’d like something more hands-on and practical rather than being fully desk-based. I’ve become really interested in CMM programming and metrology — the combination of precision measurement, GD&T, problem solving, and working with CMMs really appeals to me.

I’d like to ask:

• How realistic is it to move into CMM/metrology without an engineering degree?
• Would a software QA background be useful, or would I be starting from scratch?
• What would be the best entry route (CMM operator, metrology technician, quality technician, etc.)?
• What skills should I learn before applying (GD&T, PC-DMIS, Calypso, machining basics)?

I’m based in the UK and planning to spend the next 6 months to a year learning the fundamentals before applying for junior roles.

I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone in the industry, especially anyone who has changed careers into metrology.

Thanks!

UPDATE: thanks everyone for all your comments, really encouraging and helpful :)

I regularly use the TransPennine Express service from Leeds to Manchester and usually buy an Anytime Return, since trains run every 15–30 minutes. Because of that, I rarely have a seat reservation.

One issue I’ve noticed is that most trains seem to have the majority of seats reserved, with only a few rear carriages left unreserved.

The unreserved carriages are often standing room only, while many reserved seats elsewhere on the train remain empty for the whole journey. Wouldn’t it make more sense to have one or two reserved carriages for passengers who specifically need seat reservations, and leave the majority of seating open to all passengers?

https://reddit.com/link/1tcbjls/video/mi8akw4dqy0h1/player

Not the best visibility in this area, the car turning onto the road was going way too fast and cut the corner. Lucky, we both manage to break in time to avoid a collision, close call!

Just wanted to see if anyone else has had this issue or knows what can actually be done about it.

I’ve started using the cycle lanes and Cycle Superhighway a lot more recently and honestly really like them – I’ve ended up replacing most of my car journeys around Leeds with cycling.

The problem is there are constantly cars parked in the cycle lanes, especially along the superhighway, which kind of defeats the point and often forces you out into traffic or onto the pavement.

I’ve already emailed the council and CityConnect about it a few times but never seem to get a response.

Is there a better way to report this? Or anyone specific that actually deals with enforcement? Just feels a bit pointless having the infrastructure if it’s not kept clear.

Bit confused after a journey today and wanted to check if this is actually a known thing or not.

I was travelling on a Eurostar into London, but it was delayed which meant I missed my onward LNER train.

When I got to the LNER ticket gates and asked for help, the staff member was quite blunt and said I should have been given a “paper slip” from Eurostar, and that I can’t just turn up and expect to get on the next train without it.

Problem is – I was never given anything like that, and I’ve genuinely never heard of this “paper slip” before.

Is this actually standard practice? Should Eurostar have given me something to show for a missed connection? Or was the LNER staff member being a bit unreasonable?