Paxton is currently enrolled at TCAT-Paris in Machine Tool Technology and has been working at Palmer as a co-op Machinist since summer ‘21. Paxton is a native of Paris, TN and his hobbies include playing basketball, working out, and walking his Golden Retriever “Moose”.
WHEN AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A MACHINIST?
I took a course on Manufacturing Engineering and realized I’m good at math. I enjoy working with my hands, and a career as a Machinist seemed like a good fit for me.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT BEING A MACHINIST?
I enjoy machining a variety of different parts in a custom job shop like Palmer, instead of working in a production shop making hundreds of the same part every day. I enjoy the challenge of holding close tolerances and seeing my finished part ship to a customer.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD GIVE A HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT TODAY ABOUT A CAREER AS A MACHINIST?
There will always be a demand for good Machinists. Machining requires several different layers of education, including math, blueprint reading, CNC programming, and hands-on application.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE ANY MENTORS WHO HELPED YOU ON YOUR JOURNEY?
My dad was a big influence. He told me if he could go back to his younger self and get into any trade, he would be a Machinist.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL A CURRENT STUDENT ABOUT YOUR CO-OP EXPERIENCE WITH PALMER & TCAT?
Working at Palmer while attending TCAT makes me a better Machinist who produces better parts. Being able to learn theory at TCAT, while also practicing hands-on in the TCAT shop, then coming to work evenings at Palmer and seeing myself put my TCAT knowledge to work on actual parts helps me understand and appreciate the importance of what I’m learning.
DO YOU HAVE ANY PROFESSIONAL GOALS OVER THE NEXT 5 – 10 YEARS?
I plan to obtain my Tool and Die diploma from TCAT-Jackson before moving on to get my Manufacturing Engineering degree from UT-Martin.