> as cnc grew, machinists shrunk in headcount and wage.

Headcount, yes, wages, no.

However, you're assuming that cnc operators can't be artisans. Why?

If we allow anyone with a craft to be considered an artisans if they have a high enough skill level - and we should - I'd counter that the overall number of artisans has likely increased even if less of them now have the title of machinist.