“I like working with my hands. I love using technology and computers, especially on these advanced, powerful machines. It's crazy to think that I get paid an 'above average' salary to go to a job that I truly enjoy AND that I am good at every day!”
When asked about his recent career move, Norman Byler’s synopsis couldn’t have been more precise.
“My only regret is that I did not consider this as a career sooner!”
Norman enrolled in the Suncoast Technical College Precision Machining and CNC Automation Program at the age of 31. Prior to that, he owned a trucking company. Though Norman’s business was successful, the two and three o’clock in the morning phone calls about broken-down trucks just became too much. To put it simply, Norman said he was getting ‘burnt out’. “Looking for a new job after owning a business for seven years wasn’t easy and I didn’t want just ‘any’ job. I wanted a career.”
Norman didn’t want to spend a ton of money or time on a degree so decided to research technical colleges. “When I checked out STC and learned more about the Machining Program, I knew it was what I was looking for and exactly what I wanted to do.” Norman graduated from Precision Machining and CNC Automation in 2019. He currently works for Salvo Technologies as a Computer Numerical Control Programmer. “I have a lot of people who are surprised that I’ve only been in the industry for two years.” He went on to state that,
“Ed (Mr. Doherty) is the absolute BEST instructor! Even two years after graduating, he still responds to me with any questions I may have.”
Norman encourages anyone with passions like his, including making things by hand, using computers, love of technology and an interest in cool machines, to check out the Precision Machining and CNC Automation Program.
“There’s not a lot of careers like this one. My wife has her Masters Degree and I’m almost making what she is! Plus, I have great benefits, paid time off and the ability to increase my salary.”
He also stated that in addition to being blessed with an amazing and knowledgeable instructor like Mr. Doherty, being driven and having a strong work ethic was key to his success. “Anyone who is motivated and serious about obtaining a career in this industry can do it too.”