I think they dovetail nicely - If you ask nice, I'd bet a local machine shop would love to give you a tour of their shop and explain what's done manually and where CNC processes are best used. I know at local 2 year colleges many of the CNC instructors are machinest that work shops and teach part time. This one could really open up for you if you do a bit of looking and ask for some advice from local machine shops as to just what they're key factors are in hiring entry level people. If you find a good shop that's looking for entry level help they may even help with your education. Are you a vet by chance? That's also a huge plus.

America really is the land of opportunity if ya just go out and find it!

Keep in otuch with us ol' guys - we'd be interested in how this will play out for you!
Glenn