Will AI replace Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers?
AI can do 78% of the work Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers do at least twice as fast. People already use it for 2 of their 15 tasks, while 9 more are ready but barely used so far. Robots can technically handle 2 physical tasks. 2 still need a person.
AI is already doing this2 · 18% of time
People already use AI for these tasks in real work, based on Anthropic's analysis of how Claude is used.
- Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.Mostly automated12% of time
- Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.Mostly automated6% of time
AI could do this next9 · 60% of time
AI can speed these up by at least half, but real use has not caught up yet. These are next in line.
- Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media, such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.19% of time
- Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.11% of time
- Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.11% of time
- Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes.5% of time
- Compare encoded tapes or computer printouts with original part specifications and blueprints to verify accuracy of instructions.4% of time
- Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.4% of time
- Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.4% of time
- Sort shop orders into groups to maximize materials utilization and minimize machine setup time.2% of time
- Enter coordinates of hole locations into program memories by depressing pedals or buttons of programmers.1% of time
Robots can technically do this2 · 2% of time
Physical tasks that today's robots can perform in at least some settings. Robots are cost competitive for very few tasks so far, so this change moves slower.
- Perform preventative maintenance or minor repairs on machines.Robots: purpose built settings2% of time
- Draw machine tool paths on pattern film according to guidelines for tool speed and efficiency, using colored markers.Robots: purpose built settingsunder 1% of time
Still needs a person2 · 19% of time
No real AI use, no proven AI speedup and no robot that can do it yet. This is the part of the job to build on.
- Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.12% of time
- Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.7% of time
Your week is not the average
Describe what you actually do and get a personal report: your own tasks, what AI can already do, what stays yours and a 90 day plan.
What this means
AI can already do almost all of this work at least twice as fast. Real use is still behind at 17 out of 100, so the change here is only getting started. Expect the role to shift toward deciding what to do, checking AI's work and owning the result.
What to do next
- Do the 2 tasks AI is already handling with AI yourself. Your peers already are, and it is quickly becoming the baseline.
- Get ahead on the 9 tasks AI could do next. These move as tools improve, so learning them early pays off.
- Keep an eye on the 2 physical tasks robots can technically do. Cost keeps most robots out of work today, so this shift is slower.
- Build on the 2 tasks that stay human. This is where your judgment, skill and relationships matter most.
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