Do you want to become a Foundry Patternmaker? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
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Foundry patternmakers create full-scale, three-dimensional models as patterns for making moulds to cast metal. The work may involve:
Patternmakers must be accurate and pay attention to the smallest details, as any mistakes will be reproduced in every casting.
They usually work 37 hours a week, often in shifts. Overtime is regularly available.
Patternmaking is generally carried out on a computer in an office and in highly automated machine shops, although some work may be carried out in a workshop.
Salaries for patternmakers range from around £15,000 to £25,000 a year.
Foundry patternmakers need to:
There are foundries and patternshops in most industrial areas in the UK, particularly in the West Midlands, northern England and central Scotland.
Most patternmakers start through an Apprenticeship, and are likely to need GCSEs/S grades (A-D/1-4) in maths and English, or equivalent qualifications. It may also be possible to join a company as an unskilled foundry operative and work up through a company training scheme to become a patternmaker. There is no upper age limit for entry. Previous experience in engineering and a knowledge of specialist computer systems are advantageous.
New entrants are usually trained on the job. All Apprenticeships involve work-based training combined with block or day release for college courses. Apprenticeships lead to NVQ Level 3, BTEC/SQA national and higher national awards, and City & Guilds qualifications.
Patternmakers may progress to become supervisors, and many move into management. Those who show a particular aptitude during their training may be able to train as technicians and work in cast metals technology, mechanical or electrical engineering. There are also opportunities to work abroad.
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