Machining the Future Event Highlights High-Demand Careers in Advanced Manufacturing

Area residents interested in hands-on, high-paying careers are invited to Amarillo College’s Machining the Future: A Career Built to Last, a free community event focused on machining and advanced manufacturing, set for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at the AmTech Career Academy at 3601 Plains Boulevard in Amarillo.

The event will introduce students, job seekers, and career changers to the world of machining — a critical, in-demand field that supports manufacturing, energy, aviation, and agricultural industries that power the U.S. economy.

“These are hands-on careers that fuel innovation and power industries across the region and beyond,” said Robert Gustin, AC instructor of machine technology. “If you love working with your hands, solving problems, and creating real-world products, machining could be your perfect career path.”

Amarillo is home to dozens of manufacturers and machine shops actively seeking skilled, career-ready machinists. Across Texas, average machinist wages range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with opportunities for rapid advancement as skills and experience grow.

According to Gustin, AC graduates have gone on to work for organizations such as Pantex, Amarillo Gear and Los Alamos National Laboratory. 

“There are more great careers locally for these graduates than there are students studying this field,” Gustin said. “Machining offers a high-skill, high-demand career path with minimal student debt and strong job placement.”

The event is free and open to the public and registration is simple. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about machining careers, training pathways, and local workforce needs.

For more information, contact Jordan Ramos, AC Community Liaison of Perkins Grant, at j0448390@actx.edu or 806/371-5166.