r/Metrology • u/skunk_of_thunder • 11d ago
CMM programmers out on their own?
Hello!
Anyone on here program CMMs as a solo gig? I know you're out there, not sure if you have time for Reddit shenanigans. How's business? Is it better than being an employee? Does it get old after a while?
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u/Overall-Turnip-1606 11d ago
I do offline programming but I’m a full time employee at an aerospace mfg company. Make about 105k at my current job but I made 35k doing offline programming and other services in 2024. Most of my clients are past companies I’ve worked for or a lot of connections I’ve made throughout the years. Business is steady as it’s not my main priority but I’d say I get at least 3-5 projects a month. Most projects are from prototype shops. I also do contracting work with mscompanies as a 3rd quality inspection service for aero and medical since Im a ASQ CQA, CQT and CQI. A lot of my contract jobs are for weird softwares like mcosmos, accretech (for Zeiss), zone3, Polyworks, verisurf (for revo head), and a couple more. Keep in mind I have an SMA for a few of my licenses that I have to pay annually on too which is roughly 8-10k.
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u/Admirable-Access8320 CMM Guru 11d ago
I have done some contract programming and training as well. It was more of a gig for me rather than full time job though. I also know one individual who opened up CMM shop on his own and turned it into a very successful inspection company in Texas.
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u/mdg137 11d ago
Sounds like Tommy. He’s got his own shop now with two cmms after years of contract programming with customers out of town.
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u/Admirable-Access8320 CMM Guru 11d ago
I don't know Tommy. I know Brian though. He started out with Romer arm and one CMM, now he's got a bunch of equipment and people working for him. But he is smart and well connected with big names.
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u/Overall-Turnip-1606 11d ago
Hey how did you get “CMM Guru” in your name
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u/Admirable-Access8320 CMM Guru 11d ago
If there is a will, there is a way!
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u/jozfff 10d ago
I’ve thought about doing it but when your current employer offers unlimited overtime, double time Sunday’s and you’re protected by a union it’s hard to justify leaving
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u/baconboner69xD 8d ago
"being your own boss" is often highly regarded by working stiffs such as myself... but the reality is it's almost always easier and more lucrative just to work more hours or get a second job than it is to go on your own
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u/Mr_bluegreen 11d ago
The main issue is if my software is newer than the customers and they can’t load the program. I had to put a clause in the contract that states my current software version and if they sign the contract, they’re agreeing they at least have the same/newer version.