• Wisconsin District: $1,500
• PMA Educational Foundation: $750
• Total: $2,250

Jadon Uecker often says he didn’t choose his field—his field chose him. His passion for CNC/Tool and Die Technologies was sparked in a high school class. Though he started with limited knowledge, Jadon enrolled at a local technical college to learn more about machining. After completing his first year, he gained a solid understanding of various machines and trade techniques, further fueling his passion. 

Jadon has gained valuable hands-on experience working at two companies. He spent a summer as a machinist at Weix Industries, where he ran parts for a diverse range of clients, learning to manage different materials, setups and machines. Currently, he works in the tool room at Server Products, manufacturing fixtures for the production floor and collaborating with engineers to produce prototypes for new products. 

His dream is to build a small business where he can be involved in the entire manufacturing process—from designing parts on the computer to machining them. He is particularly interested in creating parts for prosthetic limbs, recognizing the profound impact these custom components would have on patients’ lives. Jadon earned a silver medal at the State SkillsUSA Championship for Automated Manufacturing, and he is preparing to compete again with hopes of winning gold.  

Jadon is financing his education independently. To avoid student debt, he balances working while attending school. Receiving the scholarship has allowed him to reduce his work hours and focus more on his studies. Jadon’s love for machining and hunger for knowledge drive him forward. He believes machinists are the people who make incredible achievements possible—from exploring the moon to diving into the Mariana Trench.