The six most common types of metalworking processes are forging, casting, machining, welding, stamping, and extrusion. Each method serves distinct purposes in shaping and manipulating metal into various forms and structures.

The oldest archaeological evidence of copper mining and working was the discovery of a copper pendant in northern Iraq from 8,700 BCE.

Copper, one of the few metals that occurs naturally in a usable form, was the first metal humans fashioned into tools and accessories. For nearly five thousand years—from about 9,000 to 4,000 BCE—it was the only metal worked by humankind.

Metalworking jobs include being a welder, blacksmith, silversmith, goldsmith, founder, jeweler, machinist, and more.