From elective course to career path: How NCMC and Moeller Aerospace helped Hudson Decker find his calling in CNC machining

Hudson Decker’s entry into CNC machining came as a surprise even to him.  

An elective course at North Central turned into a newfound passion for Decker, setting him on a path that led from a summer internship to a part-time position at Moeller Aerospace, where he operates two five-axis HAAS mills to make precise cuts in metal castings — parts that will one day power airplane turbine engines. 

With a semester until graduation, Decker is confident he’s on the right path. His plans? To become a CNC coder and learn manual machining. 

Decker's path from curious student to skilled intern was guided by CNC instructor Jeff Montgomery and NCMC Career Services.  

“Without Jeff and Wendy (Kresnak), I never would’ve had the opportunity to obtain my internship,” Decker said. 

At Moeller, Decker is honing his machining skills under the mentorship of industry professionals who are helping him develop confidence and competence on the job, reinforcing the skills he’s learned at NCMC. This blend of classroom instruction and real-world experience has set Decker up for success in ways he hadn’t imagined. Nate Holmes, Moeller’s Human Resources manager, said he’d “hire 50 more machinists like him in a heartbeat.” 

Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Decker offers this advice to students: “Don’t be afraid to try something new. Even if it feels uncomfortable, you might uncover a passion you never knew existed.” 

Decker’s story is a powerful example of how career services can change a student’s trajectory. North Central, with its dedicated faculty and personalized support, is helping students like Decker not only find a path but thrive on it. Through his internship, Decker discovered both his career and his calling — one he might never have realized without the resources and support at NCMC. 


North Central Michigan College’s Career Services provides personalized support to help students and alumni achieve their career goals. To explore opportunities and get expert guidance, schedule an appointment with Career Development Specialist Wendy Kresnak today.

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