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Steve Seon Highlight
Once you find something that you love and are passionate about, don’t coast. Don’t slow down. Keep the momentum going and push even more.
About Steve
- I was born in Chicago, but my family moved to the suburbs when I was about three years old to give me and my brother a better life and education.
- My dad was diagnosed with cancer when I was young—we sought treatment for him through all avenues and even went to Korea for treatment, but he unfortunately passed away.
- After my dad’s death, I lost interest in everything—I was smart enough to get by in school and work the system, but I didn’t have the drive or passion to be there.
- I was able to get into a four-year college but didn’t do well and eventually dropped out.
- I didn’t want to burden my mom with more stress, so I moved in with a friend to learn how to be independent and navigate the world on my own.
- I picked my old high school job at Ben & Jerry’s back up to gain experience working with people and develop my soft skills—however, I wasn’t making enough money and would go days without eating.
- A friend of mine offered me an opportunity at the Illinois workNet Manufacturing Career Internship Program—it opened my eyes to manufacturing and was one of the most life-changing experiences.
- I started with an internship at Keats Manufacturing Co., transitioned to a full-time position, and eventually got promoted to a CNC machinist due to my newfound determination to learn and move up!
