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How exposed to AI is a Model Makers, Metal and Plastic?

Of the 16 tasks O*NET lists for model makers, metal and plastic, 0 could be done in half the time with a chat window today. 13 cannot be sped up at all. Here is which.

Exposure means published research judged an AI could halve the time a task takes, at the same quality. It does not mean the task stops needing a person. How to read this

Also called
CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer)Metal Model MakerModel BuilderModel MakerModel Maker MachinistModel Technician (Model Tech)Molding Technician (Molding Tech)Pattern FinisherPrototype Special Build
Reachable today Needs software built first Cannot be sped up
16
tasks rated for this occupation
1%
hold a degree, from a survey of only 18
4k
people do this job in the US
29 of 107
least protected in production

Every task, and what AI can do with it

These are O*NET's task statements for this occupation, exactly as written, sorted into the three bands by the ratings behind this report. Nothing has been reworded.

Only with software built on top

3
  • Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment
  • Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts
  • Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts

Cannot be sped up

13
  • Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences
  • Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers
  • Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools
  • Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets
  • Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models
  • Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards
  • Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions
  • Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools
  • Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing
  • Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines
  • Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications
  • Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures
  • Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components
What this does not say

This is not a prediction about your job

Nobody surveyed an employer. Tasks are counted equally, so a percentage here is a share of the list rather than a share of your week. And the ratings were made in 2023, which makes every figure a floor rather than a ceiling.

It must never be used to select anyone for redundancy. The full limits are here.

Where to go next

This is the standard task list for the title. The useful next question is which of the tasks you actually do should go near AI, and which should not.

Sort your own tasks Read the full report

Exposure ratings from Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin and Rock, GPTs are GPTs: Labor market impact potential of LLMs, Science 384, 1306–1308, 2024, used under the MIT licence. This page includes information from the O*NET Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. People Team AI has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. Employment figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.