Where skill meets opportunity

Meet Katie Taylor

Katie Taylor’s path into advanced manufacturing hasn’t been a straight line, but thanks to opportunities from
Jackson College and Advance Turning and Manufacturing, she has found a career she loves!

Born in Jackson, Taylor graduated from Michigan Center High School. She ventured north to Harrison to study at Mid Michigan Community College, drawn partly by family ties in the area. Though she had completed a couple of years of study, Jackson still felt like home, drawing her back.

MADE FOR MANUFACTURING

Working as a tool and die apprentice at American Tooling Center in Grass Lake introduced her to manufacturing. She enjoyed the work, but when the auto industry slowed and layoffs swept the shop, Taylor suddenly found herself without a job. The layoff lasted only a week before opportunity came calling.

Advance Turning & Manufacturing contacted her through their training center, and from the moment she stepped in, something clicked. “I absolutely loved it,” she said. “I had some knowledge already, but the training center went more in-depth. They go at your pace. If there’s something you don’t understand, the instructor takes the time to explain it. I found out I really enjoy the math, the blueprints — there was so much more they taught that I didn’t know.”

Her enthusiasm didn’t go unnoticed. Instructors soon encouraged her to continue with courses at Jackson College. “They said, ‘Hey, if you take these other classes, you can get a certificate and degree.’ I was like, absolutely. It’s been awesome.”

A CAREER WITH IMPACT

Today, Taylor works as a machinist creating precision parts for medical, aerospace, and even space-bound equipment. The responsibility isn’t lost on her. “It’s important to do a good job because these products have a greater purpose.”

She appreciates the positive work culture at Advance Turning and describes the company as exceptionally family oriented. Her coursework at Jackson College has been equally positive. She’s currently working toward the Production Technician Certificate — the first step in what she hopes will be an ongoing journey. “If you put the time in, you can succeed.”