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How Do I Become a Millwright?

Patrick Lynch
Patrick Lynch

A millwright is expected to be a jack of all trades in a large field of manual labor. Despite the fact that a millwright's primary job is the installation and operation of heavy machinery, he or she may be asked to do anything from bricklaying to welding. To become a millwright, you need a minimum of a high school degree and an apprenticeship program of at least four year’s duration. An apprenticeship program teaches aspiring millwrights a variety of practical skills as well as focusing on classroom subjects such as physics and mathematics. A millwright might also look for a union and find a trainee program in order to avoid working as an assistant.

The millwright’s job involves working with various forms of heavy equipment. Industries in which millwrights can work range from building construction to vehicle parts manufacturing. Other tasks include operating machinery, such as forklifts, performing installation of equipment, and maintaining motors and belts.

Classes related to mathematics and physics are useful if you want to become a millwright. If an opportunity to take elective classes in any construction field arises, take advantage of it. In addition, learn as many practical skills as you can.

Millwrights often have to do various tasks like bricklaying or welding.
Millwrights often have to do various tasks like bricklaying or welding.

A millwright must have a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED), at the very least, as well as formal training. The training required to become a millwright is very specific, which means that an apprenticeship is an essential requirement. These are programs that combine real world training with classroom education.

Apprenticeship programs often last between four and five years. You can find these programs at technical and vocational schools or in community colleges. Expect to take courses in physics, mathematics, mechanical drawing, and blueprint reading. Apprentice millwrights learn how to repair, move, and dismantle machinery, so you should stay up to date with technological advancements.

Millwrights are often required to work in a variety of capacities, including as a welder.
Millwrights are often required to work in a variety of capacities, including as a welder.

If you want to become a millwright you might consider finding and joining a reputable worker’s union. A union can help prospective millwrights locate apprenticeships and employment opportunities. If you need to find work in the industry quickly, find a trainee program. Graduates of these programs learn their trade quickly and gain a level of experience that may be helpful in finding employment. This is preferable to working as an assistant to a professional millwright where the wages will be lower.

Becoming a millwright requires a combination of real world training and classroom education.
Becoming a millwright requires a combination of real world training and classroom education.

Manual dexterity is important if you want to become a millwright. Millwrights are often required to work in a variety of capacities, ranging from painting to bricklaying to welding. Clearly, the more skills a prospective millwright has, the more like he or she is to find gainful employment.

Discussion Comments

anon330613

You can also join the: United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America/Millwrights.

Here there is no charge to the member for the training, along with on the job experience.

anon323892

I am currently an electrician but I'd like to acquire the skills of becoming a millwright. How would I go about that?

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    • Millwrights often have to do various tasks like bricklaying or welding.
      By: dja65
      Millwrights often have to do various tasks like bricklaying or welding.
    • Millwrights are often required to work in a variety of capacities, including as a welder.
      By: Monkey Business
      Millwrights are often required to work in a variety of capacities, including as a welder.
    • Becoming a millwright requires a combination of real world training and classroom education.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Becoming a millwright requires a combination of real world training and classroom education.