New Airman Takes Leap of Faith into Metalworking Shop and Welding: Stories of Inspirational Self-Discovery and Career Growth

Airman Jacalin Cox is the newest member of the metal technology shop at the 157th Air Refueling Wing. Originally from Madison, New Hampshire, Cox enlisted in the Air National Guard during her senior year of high school with no prior machine shop experience. Despite this, she was immediately drawn to the field for its interesting nature and has grown increasingly passionate about it since attending technical school.

Now working as an aircraft metal technology specialist, Cox is part of a team that completes production, designs critical tooling for the KC-46, and uses a variety of machines to accomplish her tasks. One of her newfound passions is welding, which she has embraced despite never having used a torch before joining the unit.

Cox joined the 157th Air Refueling Wing because of her familiarity with the base, as her father, Master Sgt. Jeremy Cox, served in the New Hampshire National Guard for over 20 years. After completing high school, basic military training and technical school, Cok is now considering further education to become certified in her new trades.

Excited about the possibilities ahead, Cox looks forward to exploring college options and potentially working full-time on base. She finds the daily experience of trying out new machines and tasks exciting and has developed a deep respect for her work in the metalworking shop. Despite her initial intimidation when she first toured the base and encountered the machines, Cox now feels right at home and is eager to continue expanding her skills and knowledge in the field.