Tool and Die Design

Tool and die makers are among the most highly skilled workers in manufacturing. These workers produce tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices that enable machines to manufacture a variety of products we use daily—from clothing and furniture to heavy equipment and parts for aircraft.

Toolmakers craft precision tools and machines that are used to cut, shape, and form metal and other materials. They also produce jigs and fixtures (devices that hold metal while it is bored, stamped, or drilled) and gauges and other measuring devices. Die makers construct metal forms (dies) that are used to shape metal in stamping and forging operations. They also make metal molds for diecasting and for molding plastics, ceramics, and composite materials. Some tool and die makers craft prototypes of parts, and then, working with engineers and designers, determine how best to manufacture the part. In addition to developing, designing, and producing new tools and dies, these workers also may repair worn or damaged tools, dies, gauges, jigs, and fixtures.

Occupational Outlook
Despite declining employment, excellent job opportunities are expected. Employers in certain parts of the country report difficulty attracting qualified applicants. The number of workers receiving training in this occupation is expected to continue to be fewer than the number of openings created each year by tool and die makers who retire or transfer to other occupations. Tool and die makers play a key role in building and maintaining advanced automated manufacturing equipment. As firms invest in new equipment, modify production techniques, and implement product design changes more rapidly, they will continue to rely heavily on skilled tool and die makers for retooling.

Salaries
Median hourly earnings of tool and die makers were $20.55 in July 2005. The middle 50 percent earned between $16.70 and $25.93. The lowest 10 percent had earnings of less than $13.57, while the top 10 percent earned more than $31.19.

This program is approved by: IL Board of Education
This program prepares you for: Successful job placement

Tool & Die Maker/Designer Program
Total Duration: 300 clock hours classroom instruction
Prerequisites: High School diploma or GED, Mechanical Engineering exposure, AutoCAD course completion or experience
Course Fee: $5,500

Tool & Die Maker I Course
Total Duration: 80 clock hours classroom instruction
Prerequisites: High School diploma or GED, Mechanical Engineering exposure
Course Fee: $1,500

Tool & Die Maker II Course
Total Duration: 80 clock hours classroom instruction
Prerequisites: High School diploma or GED, Completion of the Tool & Die Maker I Course or basic experience with Die Making, Mechanical Engineering exposure
Course Fee: $1,500

Tool & Die Designer Course
Total Duration: 140 clock hours classroom instruction
Prerequisites: High School diploma or GED, Completion of the Tool & Die Maker I and II Course, AutoCAD course completion or experience, Mechanical Engineering exposure
Course Fee: $2,575