I'm trying to learn about some skilled trades. Nothing specific, just a trade that you can learn a lot from and work with your hands. Like maybe machinist or tool maker.

I can't help with anything in KC.
Have you gone to a tech school or any other formal training as a machinist? The usual route is to get schooling then find a job. Most shops (union or not) will require you to go through a 2 year apprenticeship after graduating school before you can become a journeyman. I was a journeyman machinist/tool and die maker/mill wright before my forced retirement.