Machinists create objects. They place steel billets, brass rods, and other metal stock on lathes, drill presses, and milling machines and shape them into a part that will be used in another machine using their skills and tools. Some machinists make vast quantities of a single part, but the majority make tiny amounts of one-of-a-kind components. 

Every project is distinct, necessitating the machinist's understanding of various metals and how they respond when moulded. This work requires the ability to precisely follow blueprints or other written requirements. 

Because computers enable machinists to be more productive, the ability to operate with both hardware and software is essential. However, computers will never be able to replace machinists. No computer can equal an experienced machinist's talent, understanding, and 'eye.' After all, when you only need a few copies of a part, hiring a competent machinist is significantly less expensive than paying a computer specialist to build the necessary programme.