TSTC graduate begins new machining job in Austin

(HUTTO, Texas) – Glen Cusack III, of Kyle, graduated this fall from Texas State Technical College in East Williamson County with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Precision Machining Technology. He is working at DJO Global in Austin, where he uses machining to create surgical implants. 

What factored into you choosing Precision Machining Technology to study at TSTC?

I chose the Precision Machining Technology program because my uncle is a machinist in Mississippi who has been running his own business for more than 20 years. When I was taking welding classes, I talked multiple times to Tim Hemesath, an instructor in TSTC’s Precision Machining Technology program. I knew just by his positive attitude and how much he cared for his students that he could make the classes fun and I would still graduate with another trade under my belt.

What did you enjoy about the Precision Machining Technology program?

I have enjoyed all the people I have met throughout the program and the machines I have had the opportunity to use. I have really enjoyed how patient and dedicated my instructors were to make sure we all had the right information and tools for class. I cannot thank Mr. Hemesath enough for what he has done. He has been a huge help from day one. From when I started in the program never having touched a machine to where I am today, including the job I have now, I truly could not have done it without him. Anyone who is unsure about Precision Machining Technology or really does not know much about it should definitely check it out and research it.

What advice would you give to high school students interested in pursuing the machining field?

High school students looking into machining should listen, take notes and ask the instructor for help. Machining seems scary at first because it is a lot to take in, but with time, you will feel confident and do it with ease. You will scrap parts and mess up because everyone does. I messed up a lot my first semester, but it’s all a learning lesson and will make you a better machinist in the end. Don’t be afraid to take that leap.

What motivates you in life?

The thing that motivates me the most are the goals I have for myself and my family. I could not be where I am without their help.

Machinists in Texas make a yearly median salary of more than $46,000, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop website, which adds that Texas will need more than 29,000 machinists by 2028.

TSTC’s Precision Machining Technology program is part of the Money-Back Guarantee. Students in their first semester are eligible to sign up for free with campus Career Services representatives. Over the course of their training at TSTC, students attend workshops to learn about resume writing, interview techniques and other employment skills. Students who are not hired in their field within six months after graduation may be eligible to get a tuition refund for their time at TSTC.

For more information, go to tstc.edu.