Please tell us about what do you do and how long you have been doing it.

I am the lead CNC lathe machinist at Billet Industries. I am tasked with setting up, programming, and operating CNC turning centers while providing technical support and training.
I first started machining part-time in 2006, full-time in 2010, and took on the leadership role in 2014.

How did you get into your career in manufacturing?

During high school, a friend of mine, who worked for Billet Industries, asked if I was interested in a summer job. I quickly found an interest in machining. I worked through a few summers and after pursuing college for music recording, Troy, from Billet Industries, asked if I had any interest in continuing my pursuit in manufacturing. This is when I learned of the option of the Manufacturers’ Association apprenticeship program and continued onward in my path to becoming a machinist.

How would you describe a typical day at work?

My first priority is to make sure the team of guys have everything they need to machine parts whether it be programming, tooling, machine setup, training, documentation, etc. I then work closely with engineering and the mill department to focus on any jobs that require process review, tooling, or recommendations. And then I’m back in the zone cutting chips to meet the next customer’s goal

What do you love most about what you do for your job?

I love molding people into the best versions of themselves along with bringing designs and ideas to life with the ever-changing industry.