Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

This job has 17 core tasks. We went through 6 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

1. TASK 01

   Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.

   AI DOES

   Reads blueprints and job orders to pull out key dimensions, tolerances, and operation sequences quickly

   YOU DO

   Apply shop-floor experience to decide the safest, smartest setup for each unique job

2. TASK 02

   Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.

   AI DOES

   Looks up recommended cutting speeds, feed rates, and tool specs from material data and machining tables

   YOU DO

   Trust your senses and shop experience to fine-tune settings when the machine tells you something feels off

3. TASK 03

   Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.

   AI DOES

   Reads digital gauge outputs and flags out-of-spec measurements on connected smart tools

   YOU DO

   Handle the physical gauges and make the actual measurements on the part

4. TASK 04

   Operate tracing attachments to duplicate contours from templates or models.

   AI DOES

   Suggests setup parameters or helps read digital templates

   YOU DO

   Physically set up and run the tracing attachment on the actual machine

5. TASK 05

   Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.

   AI DOES

   Monitors sensor data on some modern CNC machines to flag feed rate issues

   YOU DO

   Physically move controls and feel machine response in real time

6. TASK 06

   Lay out reference lines and machining locations on work, using layout tools, and applying knowledge of shop math and layout techniques.

   AI DOES

   Answers shop math questions and explains layout techniques

   YOU DO

   Keep doing the hands-on measuring and marking at the machine