Disclaimer: I believe that everyone who can hang a picture on the wall can work in a machine shop. However, if you are sloppy, forgetful, or messy, don't do it. Or at least read the manuals and learn safety instructions before you go. If you are still reading this, you are not easily scared! Welcome to the world of DIY fun and creativity which a machine shop provides. Let's start with the most common myths. Myth 1. Machine shop is for old-school dudes who like to fix their motorcycles - today one can buy online everything needed for science. If you can buy everything - you follow mainstream, because your tools are old and popular enough that a company makes money making and selling them. If you hit an unbeaten path, or even make adjustments, you need to invent and make new tools. Of course, you can hire engineers - but research labs are rarely that rich. Myth 2. Machine shop is a big and expensive enterprise, only big institutes can afford it. MS can be as big ...
I have no commercial interest in any private company mentioned here, all opinions are my personal.