Back in high school, some dozen or so years ago now, I remember everyone from teachers and guidance counselors to my own parents were pushing a four year college education. They particularly pushed the four-year education that lead to jobs with computers. Everyone would say, “Computers are the future. That is where all the jobs are going to be.” I remember thinking, “Computers are great and all, but someone is still going to have to build and fix those computers.” I realized this early on, which lead me to take every shop and auto class I could in high school. Those classes quickly became my favorite part of the day. I didn’t realize it then, but those classes were laying a foundation for a career path.

As high school started to wind down and my friends started getting acceptance letters to various colleges, I still didn’t know what I wanted to do. My mom brought to my attention a new program offered by the local tech college. It was a small blurb in the local paper about a new program that highlighted the need for qualified and skilled employees in manufacturing. The article highlighted the strong relationships it was growing with local companies. Some of these companies donated equipment, tools and services that students could learn on.

Because of that article, I enrolled in Gateway Tech for their automated manufacturing systems technician program. I earned a two-year associate degree which set me off on my career path. One of the most attractive things about this degree was the strong foundation I would gain in several fields. Having a good understanding of everything from electrical to hydraulic systems has made me very adaptable throughout my career path.

My career path started during my second semester at Gateway. A local division of ITW came to Gateway Tech looking to find an entry level, part time employee to start as a junior automation tech. Fortunately, one of my professors recommended me and I quickly went from no career path to having a great entry level job in my field while going to school full time. I stayed with ITW for three years and earned my degree while working part time. I still had my sights set higher and I quit my job in pursuit of a four-year bachelor’s degree.

Through my instructors at Gateway Tech, I learned of a program where my credits could transfer to a state school, University of Wisconsin–Stout (UW-Stout). Unfortunately, I quickly learned that UW-Stout was not for me because all the credits that I earned at Gateway only transferred as electives. I also learned I was not fond of the traditional classroom whatsoever.

After a year at UW-Stout, I decided to get back into what I knew best and took a job as a maintenance technician at a plastics company called Rose Polymer. I grew more as a person outside the classroom during my time at UW-Stout. In my five years at that company, I became well rounded in many different areas of the business, with more opportunity due to its smaller size.

For several reasons after five years a Rose Polymer it was time for a new challenge. I found my first opportunity in the spring with JN Machinery now as a general manager. During my time at JN Machinery I continued to add to my mechanical skills as well as learning the business. This included traveling to visit customers to do sales an on-sight service.

Four years of success with JN Machinery and I made the change to my current employer with FENN. One of the biggest reasons I went to FENN was my desire to stay in the spring industry that has wonderful sense of community. The main reason however is I finally found a job that I enjoy and offers me a good work life balance. At FENN I still get to do the thing I enjoy the most…meeting with customers and fixing machines.

As I stated earlier, I had no idea what I wanted to do after high school and that is okay. If I can offer any advice do not be afraid of change. I have learned more in my career from my mistakes then my successes. If you have any more questions or would like to know more feel free to email me at adam.jacobson@fenn-torin.com.