Precision Metalworkers

Certification or Licensing

Certification or licensing requirements for precision metalworkers vary depending on the employer. Some employers may require tool and die makers to be certified as journey workers, after they have completed a licensed program. State apprenticeship boards award this certification, and while it may not be required to work as a tool and die maker, it can improve employment opportunities.

The American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) offers the AMBA-certified Skills Certification Program for "front-line mold manufacturing workers, from entry-level through the first level of supervision within all sectors of the industry." The program recognizes those who demonstrate mastery in three body-of-knowledge content areas: Primary Skills Master, CNC Technician, and Master Mold Builder. Visit https://amba.org/industry-resources/workforce-development/skills-certification-program for more information. The Precision Metalforming Association offers the certified metalforming technician credential to those who pass a proctored assessment that is composed of 132 questions in the following areas: mathematics, measurement, quality, safety, metalforming, manufacturing process, technology basics, professional and business skills, ands team-based soft skills and communication. Visit https://www.pma.org/training/certifications to learn more about the program.