My Fallback Career

November 25 2024
By: Traci D. Long

My parents always planned ahead, and when the time came they insisted I plan for a fallback career. I found that amusing since I didn’t have a career plan at all yet, but I did add a few non-mainstream classes to my load to “try out” a few alternate paths to what I would typically seek.

Outside of required courses, my university studies were largely computer related. I learned a lot of skills at the time when I was already more tech savvy than most of my Gen-X peers. I was lucky enough to have a family computer in the early ‘80s and attend a magnet school with the first of its kind computer lab. My career now is undoubtedly supported by those classes, but no path really enthused me at the time.

In an unamusing manner, my fallback career largely led me to where I am now. My alternative courses included machine operations for CNC (computer-controlled) lathes and mills. As part of my certification as a machine operator, I had co-op hours to complete on the job. The worst part was the Houston traffic, as I didn’t live near industrial areas. I became efficient at running the machines, got to know my parts, tools, and variances. I completed my coop hours and got my certification. Then I almost killed myself.

Shavings were catching up on the part, so I jogged (paused) the machine and cleared the debris. When I closed the door, I paused. Had I jogged or double jogged? This is important to remember, as double jogging means you have to reset; I was pretty sure I only hit the button once. I hit go and instantly knew I was wrong. Looking through the window of the machine, I didn’t have time to realize the bit hit the chuck, broke and flew directly toward my head. Double safety glass saved me. I kept the bit in my car for years as a small reminder of my big gamble.

What reminders do you carry to take precautions to ensure your safety?