The Scoop at the Hook

Spotlight's On Aaron Watson

It’s finally starting to feel like Spring! After a long, cold Chicago winter… and second winter… and fake spring—we are finally getting a chance to shed our coats and enjoy the warm weather we’ve been waiting for. As we take the time to celebrate spring, we also want to take a moment to recognize the hard work of our 4-Slide Operator, Aaron Watson.

Aaron has become such an important part of the Mighty Hook family. Through his hard work and ambition, Aaron has moved from a temporary employee to full-time 4-Slide Setup Technician and Operator.

If you are familiar with the 4-Slide metalworking machine, you know its operation requires great attention to detail and there are few people who are trained to use it. Aaron has consistently expressed a desire to learn and grow. When he began working at Mighty Hook, he leapt on the opportunity to learn and master the setup and operation of this machine, and then he succeeded in doing so.

Aaron’s determination and work ethic are strong and true. He has a positive, “can do” attitude and is a pleasure to work with. He has shown himself to be a valuable part of Mighty Hook’s operations and we are so thankful to have him as part of our company!

We are so happy to have you as part of the Mighty Hook family! What exactly do you do at Mighty Hook?

I am a 4-slide machine operator and a set-up man. I take care of all supplies that come in for the 4-Slide and take care of the storage for the 4-Slide items.

When did you get started at Mighty Hook? What’s your favorite part about the job?

I got hired in as a temp in June 2016. A year later, I advanced from a temp and was hired in full-time as a machine operator. As time went on, I learned more about the machines and how they operate. I learned how to set them up. I was trained by my coworkers how to operate the 4-Slide machine and how to learn the functions of the 4-slide.

I had never performed this type of work before. I usually like to take the initiative on projects, so if something needs to be done, I like to hop on the opportunity to learn and get it done. I like that I am able to stay busy and learn new things in this position. I also like my coworkers, so that helps me to stay positive and focused on my job.

Your coworkers think very highly of you and the work that you do. We know you are a hard worker. What do you like to do outside of work to balance your time?

I have three children and I love to spend my time with them. Right now, my oldest is home from school, so I’m spending as much time with them as possible. Other than that, I like to relax and listen to music, and sometimes BBQ.

It feels like Chicago is finally done with winter. Do you have any exciting plans for your Spring and Summer?

I don’t have any big plans right now. I plan to spend my summer with my family. If the opportunity arises, maybe we will plan something special, like going to Great America or somewhere to have fun.

If you could offer any advice or words of wisdom to our readers – life- or work-related – what would it be?

Work hard, stayed focused, and may your dreams come true.