Is the CAD/CAM programming desirable?

[tomall]

While working in CMM programming field, I like to enhance
my CAD related programming, focusing especially on punch press (Turret-like) related CAD/CAM programming.

Is that type of programming "atractive" enough for the manufacturing business, or its doomed to failure? Thanks,

Tom

 

[bobho]

I've done CNC punchpress programming. It's relatively easy because you're only moving in X and Y. The place I worked for used software that came with the machine (AMADA) but I also used Unigraphics. Nesting individual parts onto the larger pieces of sheet metal is also part of punchpress programming and again is usually done with software. I've seen a few ads for this type of position but not nearly as many as for mill or lathe programmers. This type of programming is usually easy enough so that some other engineer or technician that has spare time can be given the task.