Steve Seon

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!