Originally Posted by
STS_John
If you have basic knowledge in the in the software you described, and basic experience as an operator, you are very much underpaid.
I don't know SW Wis., if it is predominantly a rural area, the wages may not be too bad. There are a growing number of shop owners that are setting up in rural areas, for both quality of life issues, and reduced labor costs.
I own a Small shop (10 people), if you were to apply at my shop in Florida, you would start at $12.00 an hour, with medical, 401K, vacation, etc. I would look at you as a diamond in the rough. At 18 you have shown an interest not only as an operator/machinist, but have some background with the software that could make you a excellent programmer/machinist within the next 4 to 5 years.
Don't be afraid to leave your current job. Matter of fact, don't be afraid to work at 2 or 3 shops in your first 5 years. You won't learn it all working under one master machinist. The word journeyman was originally coined in Europe to describe a craftsman who had journeyed and worked for multiple master-craftsman to learn the trade completely.
Timing in life is important, right now there is a shortage of qualified machinist. This won't exist forever. You will have no trouble finding another job, but you may have to move to a new location. The current shortage should exist for the next 3 to 5 years, so it is perfect time for you to be entering the trade.
I would recommend, from my experience, to stay with smaller shops (less than 30 people), your interest in the trade will be recognized in this environment, and you will most likely receive more mentors and learn at a faster rate.
Good luck to you and welcome to the trade. Society will never recognize how important the work is that you do, but the quality of life that our society enjoys is directly related to the industrial work we do.