“I fell in love with building things,” says Jaxson Furey, a recent Waterloo Oxford Secondary School graduate. “It’s fun to turn a chunk of metal into something amazing.”

At Eclipse Automation, we believe in fostering the next generation of innovators and creators. This year, we are proud to celebrate Jaxson Furey, the recipient of the Waterloo Oxford Secondary School Tech Award sponsored by Eclipse Automation. The Tech Award recognizes outstanding achievements in technology and manufacturing.

Jaxson’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, hands-on learning, and the opportunities that automation offers to shape the future.

A Passion for Manufacturing and Automation from a Young Age

Jaxson’s fascination with manufacturing began at an early age, inspired by time spent with his father in his shop and watching robots on TV and movies. While his initial interest was in robotics, sparked by iconic characters like R2D2 and Transformers, his high school tech courses opened his eyes to the world of manufacturing.

Through hands-on courses in manufacturing, construction, and computer engineering, Jaxson discovered his passion for machining. During his co-op at Demtool, Jaxson operated CNC milling and lathe machines, gaining firsthand experience in precision machining. One of his key projects involved creating brass friction rings, where he learned to program and inspect components to meet exact specifications.

He credits his father, his teachers, and his hands-on experiences for inspiring his journey. “My dad’s work in fabrication and my teacher, Mr. Dagg, made learning fun and engaging. In Grade 12, I got to work on projects that I designed myself, like a welded flower for my mom and a bottle opener inspired by Captain America’s super serum.”

Jaxson’s Journey: The Impact of the Tech Award and the Future of Automation

Receiving the Tech Award was a pivotal moment for Jaxson. “I didn’t even know the award existed until graduation,” he admitted. “When I found out, I was thrilled. It’s a recognition of all the hard work I put into my tech courses.”

The Tech Award was an important moment for Jaxson, boosting his confidence and strengthening his resolve to pursue a career in machining. It served as a powerful validation of his hard work and passion for technology. Jaxson added, “It’s a great addition to my resume and shows that I’m capable and determined to work in this field. It’s also a motivation to keep improving and striving for excellence.”

Knowing there are opportunities like the Tech Award for students interested in automation and technology, Jaxson offers this advice: “Explore your options. Take tech courses, try co-op placements, and get hands-on experience. It’s the best way to figure out what you love and gain skills that will set you apart in the industry.”

Jaxson’s story is a shining example of how young innovators can address the challenges highlighted in an RBC report, which notes that 25% of Canada’s 4 million tradespeople will need to upgrade their skills within five years amid growing digitalization, underscoring why automation-focused pathways are becoming essential.

That urgency is further amplified by another sobering data point from the same article: more than 700,000 tradespeople are expected to retire by 2028. These numbers highlight both the challenge and opportunity for students like Jaxson who are choosing tech-driven trades.

“Automation makes things easier, limits human error, and enhances safety,” explained Jaxson, noting automation represents the future of manufacturing. His co-op experience allowed him to work on projects involving CNC milling and lathe machines, where he learned the importance of precision and programming in creating complex components.

“Automation is exciting because it brings in a tech-focused approach to traditional trades,” Jaxson said. “It’s attracting younger generations, people who might not have considered these careers before. Eclipse Automation is playing a big role in this by inspiring people to explore the possibilities in automation and technology.”

Eclipse Automation: Inspiring Future Generations

“At Eclipse Automation, we see ourselves as stewards of the advanced manufacturing industry, it’s not just about filling roles today, but inspiring the next generation to imagine what’s possible in STEM and the skilled trades,” says Allan Medhurst, Talent Acquisition Manager at Eclipse Automation. “Through our campus programs, we open the doors to advanced manufacturing and help students see a future where innovation, technology, and hands-on impact come together.”

As Jaxson puts it, “Eclipse is doing a great job of motivating younger generations to explore machining and automation. It’s opening doors for people who might not have considered these paths before, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for everyone.”

Jaxson’s future is bright as he continues to pursue his passion for machining and automation. With plans to further his skills and explore the latest advancements in CNC technology, he is well on his way to making a significant impact in the field.

Eclipse Automation is committed to empowering countless others to transform their dreams into reality through innovation and opportunity. Discover how Eclipse Automation can help you turn your passion into reality through our co-op opportunities.

Ready to transform your automation project outcomes? Download our Advanced Engineering Services brochure or our Automation Readiness Checklist today! Contact Eclipse to learn how our comprehensive lifecycle management services—from pre-automation planning through post-implementation optimization—deliver the expertise and visibility you need for success.