Craftsmen are always on the cutting edge of their craft. As we march boldly into the future, the tools at our disposal are advancing at a breakneck pace. Long gone are the days when a hammer and nails were the top weapons in a handyman’s arsenal. Today, we’re catching you up on the latest evolution in workshop tools. These awesome toys are transforming how craftsmen create, build, and innovate.
3D Printers
Thought 3D printers were just for large-scale manufacturers? Think again! These futuristic tools come in various sizes and price points, making them a viable option for craftsmen. Whether you’re perfecting a prototype for a new idea or customizing parts for your latest build, a 3D printer provides unrivaled versatility and precision. All you need is some code telling the machine what you want to craft. Don’t worry about the technical side. There are plenty of tutorials online explaining how to use these near-magic tools. Some of the most popular and accessible models include the Creality Ender 3 and the Prusa i3 MK3.
Laser Cutters
Goldfinger isn’t the only one with a laser now! These sci-fi tools are readily available for everyday craftsmen for a variety of uses, including:
Cutting – Easily slice through common materials including metal, acrylic, and wood for clean, accurate, and smooth cuts.
Fabrication – Manufacture customized pieces for exacting projects that require 100% original parts.
Engraving – Add a personal touch to your projects by engraving leather, glass, wood, and even metal.
There might not be any sharks with frickin’ lasers, but these tools can tackle a wide range of projects. The more comfortable you get with them, the more uses you’ll find. Glowforge and Epilog Zing are the most popular models for their power and accuracy.
Further Reading: Will Artificial Intelligence Replace Construction Jobs?
Smart Power Tools
Craftsmen don’t ask for much. As long as a tool turns on and does its job, it’s a good day. That being said, nobody’s going to shy away from the Swiss army knife of features available on new smart power tools. With impressive capabilities such as wifi connectivity, automation, and boosted safety mechanisms, these super smart tools are making DIY projects more efficient (and fun) than ever. Fancy a drill that automatically adjusts its torque settings? How about a saw that can sync with your smartphone for real-time feedback? Well, these tools exist! Check your favorite power tool brand. They probably have some new models with advanced functionality.
Advanced Measuring Devices
Precision is paramount in the world of craftsmanship, where the saying “measure twice, cut once” is a guiding principle. However, the remarkable accuracy of advanced measuring tools might render this age-old motto obsolete. The array of modern measuring devices, such as digital calipers, smart levels, and laser measures, are making traditional tools look archaic. These tools use laser technology and digital sensors for pinpoint accuracy. Guesswork is now a thing of the past, and precision is here to stay.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) isn’t reserved for video games. This advanced technology has numerous applications relevant to craftsmen. You can use AR to visualize projects in their final form, measure distances in virtual space, see what adjustments look like before making them, and so much more. In a true sense, your imagination is the only limitation on the potential of these devices. Microsoft HoloLens and MeasureKit are some of the best VR devices for craftsmen. These aren’t the cheapest tools in the world, but they’re impressive!
These futuristic tools can improve your projects but won’t do anything to help the job search. If you’re still struggling to find the right gig, you need support that’s as dynamic, advanced, and effective as this modern equipment. Enter Madden Industrial Craftsmen – a leading industrial staffing expert. For decades, we’ve helped talented craftsmen just like you find work with some of the country’s premier employers. Check out our job search for immediate openings nearest you.
