Metal Tooling & Die Fabrication Apprentice (CNC/EDM Pathway)

Metal Tooling & Die Fabrication Apprentice (CNC/EDM Pathway) Is this you?

• Curious about how precision tools are built and how parts move from print to production?
• Ready to learn by doing—while getting paid—and finish school without debt?
• Excited to work with CNC machines, EDM equipment, and real production tooling?

What you’ll join

The Tool and Die Apprentice Program at Wiegel Tool Works blends full-time, paid shop experience with structured technical instruction through the Technology & Manufacturing Association (TMA). It’s a five-year, U.S. Department of Labor–recognized pathway into a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker role.

Quick facts

• Length: 5 years
• On-the-job training: 10,000 paid hours at Wiegel headquarters
• School: 3 years at TMA (debt-free; tuition and educational expenses paid by Wiegel)
• Employment: Full-time throughout the program
• Work schedule: 40+ hours/week, Monday–Friday
• Classes: Evenings at TMA twice weekly (3-hour sessions)
• Academic cadence: Two 14-week semesters each year
• Credential: National Certificate of Completion via the U.S. Department of Labor
• Next step: Opportunity to advance to a full-time Journeyman Tool and Die Maker at Wiegel

Why it’s a smart move

• Earn while you learn—no student loans
• Work on live manufacturing programs and production tooling
• Operate advanced equipment and build strong problem-solving skills
• Rotate across multiple processes and disciplines
• Grow your professional network and open long-term career doors

Where you’ll gain hands-on reps

• Tool design, die machining, and die assembly
• Turning and machining; CNC machining and CNC programming
• Wire EDM operation; plunge EDM; wire programming
• Jig boring and jig grinding; die grinding
• Electrode manufacturing; hole popping; heat treat preparation
• Polishing and finishing; die maintenance and repair
• Layout inspection; quality inspections; sensor applications
• Press room operations

Benefits you receive as a full-time apprentice

• Health, dental, and life insurance
• Supplemental insurance options
• Paid holidays and vacation
• Retirement savings plan
• Additional employee benefits and development opportunities

What we look for

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn
• Interest in manufacturing, machining, and engineering
• Team orientation, strong attendance, and commitment to completion
• Basic math skills and problem-solving ability
• Ability to meet the physical demands of a manufacturing environment

Outcome

Graduate with a nationally recognized credential, real production experience, and the chance to step into a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker role at Wiegel Tool Works.