Sarah Cashman
Sarah Cashman is a dedicated Journeyman Toolmaker and educator, currently teaching Machine Tool Technology at Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience in precision machining and toolmaking, Sarah brings deep industry knowledge and real-world insight into her classroom. She began her career on manual machines and completed a rigorous four-year apprenticeship through the Kentuckiana Machining Association and the Kentucky Registered Apprenticeship Program, earning both her journeyman certificate and an associate degree from Jefferson Community and Technical College.
Throughout her career, Sarah has worked on a wide range of tooling, including progressive, transfer, and custom restrike dies, gaining expertise in die repair, manual machining, and operating various machine tools like vertical mills, lathes, and grinders. Her technical skills are matched by her ability to lead and teach. As an instructor, she’s passionate about preparing the next generation of skilled tradespeople by teaching both fundamental machining concepts and hands-on skills in a dual-credit program that bridges high school and college education.
Sarah is especially committed to helping her students succeed and move confidently into careers in the skilled trades. She understands the value of mentorship and strives to create a learning environment where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to excel. By connecting classroom instruction to industry expectations, Sarah is not only shaping future toolmakers—she’s building a stronger workforce for her community.
• Jefferson Community and Technical College
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, persistence, and a genuine passion for helping others grow. I started my career in 2013 working in a factory, eventually becoming a tool maker and earning my associate degree while gaining hands-on experience with manual machines. Teaching in the same field that shaped my journey has been incredibly rewarding—supporting my students and helping them succeed is something I take great pride in. Today, I lead an apprentice shop program, and it’s an honor to give back by preparing the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and also one of the greatest opportunities—in my field is ensuring that every student not only learns the technical skills but truly understands them in a way that sets them up for long-term success. It’s about more than just teaching; it’s about meeting students where they are, helping them grow, and preparing them to confidently move forward in their careers. When that happens, it's incredibly rewarding—for both the students and for me as an educator.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both my work and personal life, compassion, giving back, and being present are core values I hold close. I’m a proud mom of two young children, and spending quality time with them keeps me grounded and motivated. I also believe deeply in helping others—each year, I participate in the Angel Tree program to help make the holidays brighter for families in need. Whether it's supporting my students or giving back to the community, I strive to lead with empathy and purpose in everything I do.