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Machining. It started with YouTube. I picked up a lot of concepts and that set my brain to recognize these tools. Then I randomly bought a milling supply compan
by wiseleo 6y ago
Machining. It started with YouTube. I picked up a lot of concepts and that set my brain to recognize these tools. Then I randomly bought a milling supply company basically for almost nothing while shopping for interesting deals.
Well, now I have multiple tons of milling tooling and so obviously I need a 3-ton milling machine. Looking at an older CNC mill.
So that’s one skill. Another is automotive repair. My skill level is high enough to do engine replacement. Just bought a car lift today to make everything easier. This does intersect with other skills - I use oscilloscope for automotive troubleshooting, which is not far from software engineering and electronics. This led me to almost opening a mobile A/C repair business. I acquired most of the equipment I needed and got certified for federal licenses. This got delayed because of the machine shop company that fell into my lap. That’s just a much bigger opportunity.
I can credit YouTube for introducing me to many interesting skills and hobbies.
Competitive dancing. I have been a good dancer since 16 years of age, but then I studied with world championship teams. At that point, the dance is a tightly choreographed athletic activity. I was going to start competing this year, but that will have to wait a little. There are various age categories, so I can compete on equal terms with other similar couples.
Relearning math. I am not terrible at it, but I am attempting to create a curriculum that does not focus on rote memorization.
- brg 6y agoSame, with a similar trajectory but not similar investments for the future. This Old Tony, Applied Science, and Abomb were all strong motivators. Great luck with the business venture.
- phobosanomaly 6y agoHold on. I kept re-reading that thinking they must mean they bought a milling machine, but no you bought a milling supply company. Come on, you can't gloss over that. I need to know the story behind that because it sounds fascinating.
- nicbou 6y agoI'm slowly picking up "dicking around in the garage" as a hobby, and you are so right about these skills being connected. It makes use of so many different skills. It also builds your confidence, and makes you feel like you can build or fix just about anything. I feel like I always walk out of the garage an inch taller. I think This Old Tony and Rainfall Projects were my gateway drugs
- ibeckermayer 6y agoDamn you sound cool, can I be your friend?