Meet The Pro: Shamarion Walker, Machinist General Sr.
By Arkansas Next on Monday, October 21, 2024
Hometown: Camden
Age: 19
Where I Trained: Lockheed Martin
Job Title: Machinist General Sr.
Employer: Lockheed Martin
Shamarion Walker grew up listening to his father talk about CNC machining. Inspired by his father’s passion for the career, he decided to follow in his footsteps and enter the same field. He attributes his success to his time working in fast food management. Balancing his job and playing football taught him time management, discipline, efficiency and punctuality. After high school, he was offered a job at Lockheed Martin and is a senior machinist at 19 years old.
“My training experience was truly incredible, as I finally had the opportunity to formally learn about CNC machine operation and do it,” Shamarion said. “...There are so many knowledgeable people in my building that I already look up to as mentors... One key takeaway is the importance of paying close attention to the machine, as this allows me to quickly identify and address any issues that may arise during operation.”
Shamarion’s day-to-day responsibilities include operating a Toyoda FA8005 CNC machine. He handcrafts handles for a critical product for the Department of Defense, along with loading and setting tools. Qualities he’s mastered that make him a great CNC machinist include the ability to multitask.
“I love working with my hands. Being able to operate my machine day in and day out like my dad for a company like Lockheed Martin is amazing,” Shamarion said. “If I could go back, I wouldn’t choose any other profession. This is what I was meant to do.”
Shamarion has always known he wanted to go into the trades outside of high school. He was able to take skills he learned in high school and apply them to a career directly after graduation, and he takes pride in what he does every day. Right out of high school, Shamarion has achived so much in a short amount of time. He’s bought a car, has a 401K (retirement plan) and is working towards buying his own house.
“If I could offer advice to middle or high school students, I would encourage them to pursue their dreams with determination and perseverance,” Shamarion said. “No one can stop you from achieving your goals, so if there’s a particular career path you’re interested in, go for it! Keep pushing forward, and I promise that it’s possible to make your dreams a reality. Remember that success takes time, effort, and a willingness to learn, but the rewards can be tremendous.”
More About the Job
Education Needed:
High school diploma
You'll Be Great At This Job Too If...
- You want a hands-on job
- You enjoy problem-solving
- You crave excitement and challenges
Related Jobs:
Machinist
High School Diploma | $67,940
Milling & Machine Setters, Operators And Tenders
High School Diploma | $52,530
Job Demand
► Employment is projected to decrease -1% by 2030, with 220 job openings each year.
► 1,990 computer numerically controlled tool operators are expected to be employed in Arkansas by 2030.
High-end earners (top 10%) make
$56,950
Median wages in Arkansas (top 50%)
$45,950
WHERE TO LEARN
- ABB Motors & Mechanical Inc.
- Arkansas National Guard
- Arkansas Northeastern College
- Arkansas State University Mid-South
- Arkansas State University Three Rivers
- Arkansas State University-Beebe
- Arkansas State University-Mountain Home
- Arkansas State University-Newport
- Business and Industry Training
- East Arkansas Community College
- University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College
- University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville
- University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton
WHERE TO WORK
- ABB Motors & Mechanical Inc.
- Arkansas National Guard
- Central Moloney Inc.
- Cranford Asphalt
- Granite Mt. Quarries
- Greenway Equipment
- Haas Factory Outlet: A Division of Phillips Corporation
- Hytrol
- Intimidator Group
- McGeorge Contracting
- Welsco
Sources: careeronestop.org
