From Army Helicopter Pilot to Machinist

In the quiet town of Beaverton, Michigan, a man whose life has spanned multiple career paths and adventures now stands as a beacon of resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. After Josh Mason graduated from high school in 1998, he attended Mid Michigan College for a year but found himself lost in the challenges of academia. Unsure of his next step, Josh made a pivotal decision to enlist in the United States Army.

Over the next 20 years, Josh’s life would take a dramatic turn. In the military, he became a helicopter pilot and later a test pilot, gaining valuable technical expertise and a sharp problem-solving mindset. His time in the Army not only shaped his career but also sparked his interest in engineering, mechanics, and the world of automation. His journey through military service taught him the importance of adaptability, persistence, and the pursuit of knowledge.

In 2023, after leaving the Army a few years prior, Josh decided to return to college using his GI Bill. He decided to come back to Mid Michigan College, the same place where he once struggled, but this time with a clear sense of purpose. Josh knew that he was older and more focused, and had a clear goal of diving into the world of automation and robotics. His hard work paid off as he found himself on the Dean’s List, which was a proud moment for someone who once felt unsure of his place in the classroom.

Josh credits his success to the strong support network at Mid Michigan College. “The instructors and leadership here really care about their students. Tena D. and Beth F. were incredibly helpful. Everyone is so responsive and approachable– it makes a huge difference,” Josh said. He also appreciates the flexibility that allowed him to explore projects and topics that sparked his interest, a key factor in his academic journey.

Josh has recently accepted a job offer as a Machinist/CAD designer and is now on his way to starting his own small business in the field. After purchasing a CNC machine from Hart’s Tool Company, he began planning for the future with the Mid Michigan College Small Business Consultants from the Small Business Development Center. He has submitted an application to open his own CNC business. Josh’s experience in the Army and his education in automation have given him a strong foundation for the next chapter in his career.

Josh’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to start over, to learn, and to grow. His advice for others? “Spend yourself on a worthy cause. The effort you put into education will always pay off. Your future self will be grateful.”

For Josh Mason, life has come full circle– from struggling student to Army pilot to successful machinist and hopeful entrepreneur. As he looks to the future, he knows the best is yet to come.