Im 55 and a hobbiest. Been at it 5 or 6 years, started out with a 9" south bend and a small mill from harbor freight. Since upgraded to a much larger grizzly lathe, 12x36. And a bigger mill. Also got a small mini lathe 7x12. I was in refrigeration for 23 years, and cars my whole life. Havn't been to school for machining its just got interested in after getting my southbend. Thanks for letting me join the community.