Top 12 Journeyman Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the fiercely competitive job market, distinguishing yourself as a journeyman requires showcasing a blend of technical prowess and soft skills that highlight your comprehensive expertise and adaptability in your field. Crafting a resume that effectively encapsulates these top journeyman skills is crucial for catching the eye of potential employers and securing your position as a leading candidate.

Journeyman Skills

1. AutoCAD
2. SolidWorks
3. PLC Programming
4. CNC Operation
5. Revit
6. Python
7. AWS (Amazon Web Services)
8. Lean Manufacturing
9. Six Sigma
10. PMP (Project Management Professional)
11. HVAC Systems
12. Electrical Troubleshooting

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software used for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models, widely utilized in architecture, engineering, and construction industries, including by journeymen for detailing, fabricating, and installing various systems.

Why It's Important

AutoCAD is important for a Journeyman as it enables precise and efficient creation, modification, and analysis of designs and blueprints, improving the quality, accuracy, and productivity of their work in construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects.

How to Improve AutoCAD Skills

Improving your skills in AutoCAD as a journeyman involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and expanding your toolset proficiency. Here are some concise tips:

1. Master Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn and use AutoCAD's keyboard shortcuts for faster drawing and editing. Autodesk's Shortcut Guide provides a comprehensive list.

2. Customize Your Workspace: Tailor the AutoCAD interface to suit your workflow. This Customization Guide from Autodesk can help.

3. Use Templates: Templates save time by pre-setting drawing units, layers, and styles. Learn how to create and use them with this Templates Tutorial.

4. Practice Precision Drawing: Improve accuracy by mastering the use of object snaps and tracking. This Precision Drawing Tutorial can guide you.

5. Explore Advanced Features: Dive deeper into advanced features like Dynamic Blocks and Parametric Constraints to streamline your work. Dynamic Blocks Tutorial and Parametric Constraints Guide will help.

6. Keep Learning: Stay updated with new features and tools by regularly checking Autodesk's AutoCAD Learn & Explore page.

7. Join Community Forums: Engage with other professionals on platforms like the Autodesk Community for tips, tricks, and advice.

By integrating these strategies into your practice, you can significantly enhance your efficiency and expertise in AutoCAD.

How to Display AutoCAD Skills on Your Resume

2. SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a computer-aided design (CAD) and engineering software used for creating 2D drawings and 3D models, widely utilized in various industries for product design, simulation, and manufacturing planning.

Why It's Important

SolidWorks is crucial for a Journeyman as it enables the design, simulation, and modification of complex 3D models efficiently, improving accuracy, reducing errors, and saving time in the manufacturing process.

How to Improve SolidWorks Skills

Improving your SolidWorks skills, especially as a Journeyman, involves a combination of practice, advanced training, and utilizing resources effectively. Here’s a concise guide to enhance your proficiency:

1. Practice Regularly: The more you use SolidWorks, the better you become. Set aside time daily or weekly to work on projects or tutorials.

2. Advanced Training Courses: Consider enrolling in advanced SolidWorks courses to deepen your knowledge and learn new techniques. Websites like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer specialized courses.

3. Utilize the SolidWorks Community: Engage with the SolidWorks Community to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from experienced users.

4. Certification Programs: Aim to obtain higher-level certifications such as Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) or Certified SolidWorks Expert (CSWE). Review the requirements and study materials on the Official SolidWorks Certification page.

5. Stay Updated: Always work with the latest version of SolidWorks and stay informed about new features and tools. Regularly visit the SolidWorks Blog for updates and tips.

6. Learn Shortcuts & Tips: Improve efficiency by mastering keyboard shortcuts and tricks. Resources like the SolidWorks Shortcuts Cheat Sheet can be incredibly helpful.

7. Experiment with Add-Ins and Tools: Explore SolidWorks’ extensive library of add-ins and external tools to streamline your workflow and introduce new functionalities.

By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can significantly enhance your SolidWorks skill set and efficiency.

How to Display SolidWorks Skills on Your Resume

3. PLC Programming

PLC programming involves writing and implementing instructions for a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to automate machinery and processes in industrial settings, using languages like Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagrams, or Structured Text.

Why It's Important

PLC programming is crucial for Journeymen as it enables the automation and control of machinery and processes, enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability in industrial environments.

How to Improve PLC Programming Skills

Improving PLC programming skills involves continuous learning, practice, and staying updated with the latest technologies and standards in the industry. Here's a concise guide:

1. Practice Regularly: The more you program, the better you become. Set yourself projects or challenges that push your boundaries.

2. Learn from Others: Review code from experienced programmers. Websites like PLC Talk offer forums where you can discuss and learn from peers.

3. Understand the Basics Thoroughly: Ensure you have a solid foundation. Resources like PLC Academy provide fundamental insights.

4. Stay Updated with Standards: Familiarize yourself with industry standards such as IEC 61131-3. IEC's Website can keep you informed.

5. Use Simulation Software: Before implementing, test your programs with simulation tools. Factory I/O is a great platform for practicing and visualizing.

6. Specialize in Industry-Specific Skills: Focus on the specific needs of industries you're most involved with. Understanding their unique challenges will make you more proficient.

7. Attend Workshops and Seminars: Hands-on workshops and seminars can provide insights you won't get elsewhere. ISA frequently organizes relevant events.

8. Certifications and Courses: Pursue additional certifications or courses. Websites like Udemy offer courses tailored to PLC programming.

9. Follow Technical Blogs and Journals: Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies by following reputable blogs and journals in automation and control fields.

10. Experiment with Different PLC Brands: Different PLC manufacturers have their nuances. Experience with various brands like Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and Mitsubishi can enhance your adaptability.

Remember, mastery comes with time and dedication. Continuously challenge yourself with new projects and stay curious about the evolving landscape of PLC technology.

How to Display PLC Programming Skills on Your Resume

4. CNC Operation

CNC operation involves the skilled management and use of computer numerical control (CNC) machines to accurately cut, shape, and finish metal or plastic materials according to precise design specifications. A journeyman in CNC operation is adept in programming, setting up, and operating CNC machines, ensuring high-quality production and adherence to safety standards.

Why It's Important

CNC operation is crucial for a Journeyman as it ensures precision, efficiency, and consistency in manufacturing complex parts, essential for maintaining high quality and meeting tight deadlines in modern production environments.

How to Improve CNC Operation Skills

Improving CNC operation involves refining skills, leveraging technology, and optimizing processes. Here are concise strategies:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest CNC technologies and techniques through platforms like Tooling U-SME for online courses.

2. Optimize Tooling: Use high-quality, appropriate tools for the job. Sandvik Coromant offers insights into tool selection and optimization.

3. Master CAM Software: Enhance proficiency in CAM software for efficient programming. Mastercam's Training provides resources for skill improvement.

4. Regular Maintenance: Perform routine machine maintenance to ensure precision and longevity. Haas Automation’s Maintenance offers guidelines for machine care.

5. Implement Lean Manufacturing: Adopt lean principles to eliminate waste and improve productivity. The Lean Enterprise Institute has resources for lean manufacturing practices.

6. Quality Control: Use precision measuring tools and establish a rigorous quality control process. Mitutoyo offers advanced measuring instruments for accuracy.

7. Workplace Safety: Prioritize safety to prevent accidents and downtime. OSHA’s Safety and Health Topics provides guidelines for machine safety.

By focusing on these areas, a CNC journeyman can significantly enhance operation efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety.

How to Display CNC Operation Skills on Your Resume

5. Revit

Revit is a software for Building Information Modeling (BIM) used by professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction for designing buildings, structures, and components in 3D, annotating models with 2D drafting elements, and accessing building information from the building models' database.

Why It's Important

Revit is important because it enables efficient, precise, and collaborative creation of fully coordinated 3D building models, streamlining design to construction processes, and enhancing project outcomes for journeymen and their teams.

How to Improve Revit Skills

Improving your proficiency in Revit, especially as a journeyman, involves a combination of enhancing your software skills, understanding best practices, and integrating efficiency tools. Here's a concise guide:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid understanding of Revit fundamentals. Autodesk's official tutorials are a great starting point.

2. Advanced Training: Dive into more complex features and techniques through platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy.

3. Templates and Standards: Develop or adopt comprehensive templates and standards. This guide by AUGI can help you get started.

4. Use Plug-ins and Extensions: Explore Revit plug-ins and extensions to streamline tasks. The Autodesk App Store is a good place to find tools that can enhance your workflow.

5. Practice Efficient Modeling: Focus on modeling efficiency and accuracy. Check out ArchSmarter for tips and tricks on smarter modeling.

6. Join Communities: Engage with Revit communities for support and knowledge sharing. The RevitForum is an excellent resource for real-world advice and solutions.

7. Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest Revit updates and features. Follow the Revit Blog for official news and updates.

8. Implement BIM Standards: Understanding and applying BIM standards is crucial. The National BIM Standard-United States provides valuable guidelines.

Remember, consistent practice and staying engaged with the Revit community will significantly enhance your skills over time.

How to Display Revit Skills on Your Resume

6. Python

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity, readability, and versatility, widely used for web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and automation.

Why It's Important

Python is important for its simplicity, versatility, and extensive libraries, making it ideal for beginners and experts in various fields like web development, data analysis, automation, and artificial intelligence.

How to Improve Python Skills

Improving your Python skills as a journeyman involves deepening your understanding of the language, its libraries, and best practices. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Master Advanced Concepts: Dive deeper into generators, decorators, and context managers to write more efficient and maintainable code.

2. Algorithm and Data Structure Proficiency: Enhance problem-solving skills by practicing on LeetCode and HackerRank. Understanding algorithms and data structures is crucial for writing optimized Python code.

3. Contribute to Open Source: Engage with the Python community by contributing to open-source projects on GitHub. This experience can provide real-world coding challenges and collaboration with other developers.

4. Learn Python Libraries: Depending on your interest, deepen your knowledge in libraries such as Pandas for data analysis, NumPy for numerical computing, and Flask or Django for web development. Specializing can make you more proficient in specific domains.

5. Follow Python PEPs: Stay updated with Python Enhancement Proposals (PEPs), especially PEP 8 for style guide and PEP 20 (The Zen of Python) to align with Python's core philosophy.

6. Code Reviews and Pair Programming: Actively participate in code reviews and pair programming sessions within your community or team. These practices can expose you to different coding styles and best practices.

7. Continuous Learning: Programming languages and technologies evolve rapidly. Stay informed through reputable Python blogs, podcasts, and news sources like Real Python and Python Weekly.

8. Implement Projects: Apply what you've learned in projects that challenge you. This could range from automating mundane tasks, building web applications, or data analysis projects. The process will consolidate your learning and expose gaps in your knowledge.

By focusing on these areas, you'll not only improve your Python skills but also prepare for more advanced challenges in your development career.

How to Display Python Skills on Your Resume

7. AWS (Amazon Web Services)

AWS (Amazon Web Services) is a comprehensive, evolving cloud computing platform provided by Amazon that includes a mixture of infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and packaged software as a service (SaaS) offerings. It provides services related to computing power, storage options, and networking capabilities to help businesses scale and grow.

Why It's Important

AWS is crucial for Journeymen because it offers a broad, scalable, and efficient cloud computing platform, enabling rapid deployment and flexible management of applications and services, facilitating innovation and operational efficiency.

How to Improve AWS (Amazon Web Services) Skills

Improving your AWS skills as a Journeyman involves continuous learning and practice. Here are concise steps and resources:

1. Deepen Your Core Knowledge: Focus on strengthening your understanding of AWS core services (EC2, S3, RDS, VPC). AWS's own digital training courses are a great starting point.

2. Earn Certifications: Aim for AWS certifications like Solutions Architect Associate or Developer Associate. Use the AWS Certification page for guidance and resources.

3. Hands-on Practice: Implement real-world projects using AWS services. The AWS Free Tier allows you to explore and build using AWS products for free.

4. Join AWS Communities: Engage with the AWS community through AWS forums and local AWS User Groups to stay updated and solve doubts.

5. Stay Updated: AWS constantly evolves. Follow the AWS Blog and AWS This Week by A Cloud Guru for the latest updates and best practices.

6. Learn from Experts: Platforms like A Cloud Guru and Coursera offer advanced courses and labs guided by industry professionals.

7. Use AWS Well-Architected Framework: Review your work against AWS best practices using the AWS Well-Architected Tool.

8. Automate Everything: Learn AWS CLI, SDKs, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like AWS CloudFormation or Terraform to automate your AWS infrastructure. Start with the AWS CLI and AWS CloudFormation documentation.

9. Security Best Practices: Prioritize learning AWS security services and best practices. The AWS Security Best Practices document and AWS Security Blog are excellent resources.

10. Optimize Performance and Cost: Learn how to monitor, optimize, and reduce costs with tools like AWS Cost Explorer and AWS Trusted Advisor. The Cost Management page offers insights and tools.

By systematically following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can significantly improve your AWS skills and become a more proficient AWS practitioner.

How to Display AWS (Amazon Web Services) Skills on Your Resume

8. Lean Manufacturing

Lean Manufacturing is a systematic approach to minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity. It aims to create more value for customers with fewer resources by optimizing the flow of materials and information.

Why It's Important

Lean Manufacturing is important because it helps in reducing waste, improving productivity, and enhancing product quality, which leads to increased customer satisfaction and higher profitability for businesses. For a Journeyman, it means more efficient work processes, better use of resources, and opportunities for skill enhancement and job satisfaction.

How to Improve Lean Manufacturing Skills

To improve Lean Manufacturing, a Journeyman should focus on continuous improvement and waste reduction by following these key strategies:

1. Value Stream Mapping: Identify and map out all steps in the production process to pinpoint waste and inefficiencies. Lean Enterprise Institute.

2. 5S: Implement the 5S system (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to organize the workplace, ensuring efficiency and safety. Graphic Products' 5S Guide.

3. Kaizen: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging every employee to contribute ideas for improving processes. ASQ Kaizen Resource.

4. Jidoka (Autonomation): Implement smart automation where machines detect and prevent errors autonomously, allowing human workers to focus on tasks that require creativity and intelligence. Lean Production on Jidoka.

5. Just-In-Time (JIT): Streamline production by producing only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the amount needed to reduce waste and improve flexibility. Toyota Global on JIT.

6. Poka-Yoke (Error-Proofing): Employ error-proofing methods to prevent mistakes before they occur, enhancing quality and reliability. Poka-Yoke Guide.

7. Standard Work: Document and adhere to the best practices for each task to ensure consistency and efficiency in operations. Lean Enterprise Institute on Standard Work.

By continuously applying these principles, a Journeyman can significantly contribute to the improvement of Lean Manufacturing within their organization.

How to Display Lean Manufacturing Skills on Your Resume

9. Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a data-driven methodology and set of tools aimed at improving business processes by minimizing defects and variability, ensuring quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Why It's Important

Six Sigma is important because it provides a systematic and data-driven approach to reduce defects, improve quality, and enhance efficiency and profitability in processes, which is essential for Journeymen to deliver high-quality products or services consistently.

How to Improve Six Sigma Skills

To improve your Six Sigma skills as a Journeyman:

1. Enhance Statistical Knowledge: Deepen your understanding of statistical tools and methodologies. Online courses from platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy can be beneficial.

2. Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in Six Sigma by reading books and articles from reputable sources like ASQ.

3. Gain Practical Experience: Apply Six Sigma methodologies in real-life projects. This hands-on experience is invaluable. Consider volunteering for projects within your organization or in your community.

4. Networking: Join Six Sigma forums and LinkedIn groups. Engaging with peers can provide insights and new perspectives. Websites like iSixSigma offer vibrant communities.

5. Certification Advancement: Aim for higher certifications (Black Belt, Master Black Belt). Research institutions that offer these certifications, like the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

6. Mentorship: Either find a mentor or become one. Sharing knowledge can deepen your understanding and highlight areas for improvement.

7. Implement Lean Principles: Combining Lean with Six Sigma can enhance efficiency. Learn more through resources like the Lean Enterprise Institute.

8. Feedback and Reflection: Regularly seek feedback on your projects and reflect on your performance. Continuous improvement is key to mastery.

9. Attend Workshops and Seminars: Participate in Six Sigma and quality management events to learn from experts. Check out events hosted by ASQ.

10. Software Proficiency: Improve your proficiency in Six Sigma-related software for statistical analysis and process improvement. Practice using tools like Minitab or SigmaXL.

Focusing on these areas will significantly enhance your Six Sigma expertise as a Journeyman.

How to Display Six Sigma Skills on Your Resume

10. PMP (Project Management Professional)

PMP (Project Management Professional) is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise and skills in managing projects effectively, ensuring efficient completion of projects within scope, time, and budget constraints. It is relevant for professionals, including journeymen, seeking to enhance their project management capabilities.

Why It's Important

The PMP certification is important for a Journeyman as it validates their expertise and knowledge in project management, enhancing their credibility and marketability. It signifies their ability to lead and manage projects efficiently, potentially leading to higher income and career advancement opportunities.

How to Improve PMP (Project Management Professional) Skills

Improving your PMP skills involves continuous learning and practical application. Here are concise tips for a Journeyman:

1. Enhance Knowledge Base: Regularly update yourself with the latest project management trends and methodologies through Project Management Institute (PMI).

2. Engage in Continuous Learning: Enroll in online courses or webinars offered by reputable platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning to deepen your understanding of complex project management concepts.

3. Practice Exam Questions: Use resources from PMI or other reputable sites to practice PMP exam questions, enhancing your test-taking strategies.

4. Network with Professionals: Join project management forums or groups on LinkedIn and ProjectManagement.com to exchange knowledge and learn from experienced professionals.

5. Apply Knowledge Practically: Volunteer for project management roles within your organization or in a non-profit to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

6. Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced PMP certified professionals for guidance and insight through platforms like MentorCruise.

7. Stay Organized and Reflective: Utilize project management tools and software to stay organized and reflect on your project outcomes for continuous improvement.

Focusing on these steps and integrating them into your professional development plan will significantly enhance your PMP skills and career progression.

How to Display PMP (Project Management Professional) Skills on Your Resume

11. HVAC Systems

HVAC systems, short for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems, are integrated solutions for maintaining indoor comfort by regulating temperature, airflow, and humidity levels in buildings. For a Journeyman, it involves the installation, maintenance, and repair of these systems to ensure they operate efficiently and effectively.

Why It's Important

HVAC systems are crucial for ensuring comfortable indoor environments through temperature and humidity control, and for maintaining healthy air quality by filtering out pollutants and circulating fresh air, essential for both residential and commercial settings.

How to Improve HVAC Systems Skills

Improving HVAC systems involves enhancing efficiency, comfort, and air quality through a combination of maintenance, upgrades, and technology integration. Here's a concise guide:

1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance, including filter changes, duct cleaning, and system inspections, to ensure optimal performance. (source)

2. Upgrade Components: Consider upgrading to energy-efficient components, such as programmable thermostats, high-efficiency filters, and Energy Star-rated HVAC units. (Energy Star)

3. Seal and Insulate Ducts: Improve system efficiency by sealing leaks and insulating ducts, especially those that pass through unconditioned spaces. (Energy Star Duct Sealing)

4. Utilize Smart Controls: Install smart thermostats for better temperature management and energy savings. (Nest Thermostat)

5. Incorporate Renewable Energy: Consider integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power HVAC systems, reducing dependency on traditional energy sources. (DOE Solar Technologies)

6. Enhance Ventilation: Improve indoor air quality by enhancing ventilation with energy recovery ventilation systems, which recover energy from exhaust air to precondition incoming fresh air. (EPA Ventilation)

7. Adopt Zoning Systems: Implement zoning systems to control temperature in different areas independently, increasing comfort and reducing energy consumption. (ACCA Zoning)

By focusing on these areas, journeymen can significantly improve the performance and efficiency of HVAC systems, leading to better air quality, increased comfort, and lower energy costs.

How to Display HVAC Systems Skills on Your Resume

12. Electrical Troubleshooting

Electrical troubleshooting is the process of analyzing, diagnosing, and fixing problems within an electrical system. For a journeyman, it involves using knowledge, tools, and techniques to identify the root cause of electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, bad connections, or malfunctioning components, and then correcting them to ensure the system operates safely and efficiently.

Why It's Important

Electrical troubleshooting is essential for a Journeyman as it ensures the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems, prevents potential hazards such as fires or shocks, and minimizes downtime by quickly identifying and correcting faults.

How to Improve Electrical Troubleshooting Skills

Improving electrical troubleshooting skills as a journeyman involves continuous learning and practical experience. Here are concise steps and resources:

1. Understand the Basics: Ensure a solid understanding of electrical principles and the functioning of the components you're working with. Khan Academy's Electricity and Magnetism provides a good foundation.

2. Use the Right Tools: Familiarize yourself with advanced electrical testing equipment. Fluke offers a wide range of tools and educational resources.

3. Schematic Reading: Enhance your ability to read and understand electrical schematics and wiring diagrams. SparkFun offers a basic guide on reading schematics.

4. Practice Problem-Solving Skills: Work on developing a methodical approach to troubleshooting. This involves identifying the problem, understanding the system, devising a plan, implementing it, and testing the outcome. Practice with real-life scenarios or simulations.

5. Safety First: Always prioritize safety by following proper lockout/tagout procedures and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). OSHA provides guidelines on electrical safety standards.

6. Learn from Experience: Learn from every job. After completing a troubleshooting task, review what was done, what worked, and what could have been done differently.

7. Professional Development: Enroll in advanced courses or certifications that focus on troubleshooting techniques. Organizations like NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) offer various learning resources and training programs.

8. Stay Updated: Electrical technology and codes are constantly evolving. Regularly review the National Electrical Code (NEC) updates and industry publications to stay informed about new standards and practices.

9. Networking: Join forums or local chapters of electrical professionals. Platforms like Electrician Talk allow you to share experiences and get advice from peers.

10. Hands-on Experience: Nothing beats hands-on practice. The more you work on different systems and problems, the better your troubleshooting skills will become.

By following these steps and utilizing the linked resources, you can significantly improve your electrical troubleshooting skills.

How to Display Electrical Troubleshooting Skills on Your Resume