Embodiments relate generally to milling machines and milling techniques, and more particularly, to devices, integrated circuits, computer readable media, apparatuses, milling machines and methods to automatically load and/or unload work pieces in relation to the adverse milling machine environments. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a loader member configured to impart a loading force unto a work piece to position the work piece in a milling region. The apparatus can also include an effector configured to transfer the loading force from the loader member to the work piece and is configured further to apply a cleaning force to a path that the work piece traverses to the milling region. In some cases, the apparatus can include an ejector configured to remove a milled work piece from the milling region.