S1: E15 | Built to Last: Inside LSCO’s New Machine Shop Program

Gator Bites

Gator Bites
S1: E15 | Built to Last: Inside LSCO’s New Machine Shop Program
Jan 12, 2026 Season 1 Episode 15
Lamar State College Orange

What happens when industry demand meets hands-on education? In this episode of Gator Bites, host Daniel McLemore sits down with Sean McFarland, Howard Bailey, and Alex Spell to explore LSCO’s new Machine Shop program launching this spring. From the nationwide shortage of skilled machinists to six-figure career pathways and stackable credentials, this conversation dives into why manual machining is making a comeback and how students can turn precision skills into lifelong careers right here in Southeast Texas.

About Lamar State College Orange:
Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System, LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

Episode Artwork S1: E15 | Built to Last: Inside LSCO’s New Machine Shop Program 35:00 Episode Artwork Credit for Service: Empowering Texas’ Juvenile Justice Workforce 8:59 Episode Artwork S1: E13 | Balancing Books and Bedtime: The Journey of a Student Parent 14:27 Episode Artwork S1: E12 | Access, Community, and Opportunity: LSCO in Polk County 17:35 Episode Artwork S1: E:11 | Finding Your Voice: Inside Student Leadership at LSCO 26:23 Episode Artwork S1: E10 | Your Future. Our Focus: Student Leadership in Action 21:05 Episode Artwork S1: E9 | The Heart of Nursing: LSCO’s First RN Students in Polk County 10:44 Episode Artwork S1: E8 | Behind the Supply Chain: Inside LSCO’s Logistics Program 23:05 Episode Artwork S1: E7 | Investing in Students: Banking Education at LSCO 17:31 Episode Artwork S1: E6 | Dispatching Help, Delivering Hope: Jillian’s Journey 20:05 Episode Artwork S1: E5 | Future Leaders, Present Impact: Inside LSCO’s FBLA 16:24 Episode Artwork S1: E4 | From Student to Storyteller: Elaina’s LSCO Journey 12:30 Episode Artwork S1: E3 | Leading the Way: Student Ambassadors at LSCO 6:45 Episode Artwork S1: E2 | CSI: Gator Style – The Forensic Science Program at LSCO 12:21 Episode Artwork S1: E1 | What Dr. Wendy Elmore Plans for LSCO’s Gator Community 14:19