Lindsey Becker 
Before the digital age, many jobs required manual skill and precision. One such occupation was the radar plotter. These professionals played a crucial role during wartime, especially in World War II, by monitoring radar screens and tracking aircraft and ships. Their main task was to interpret radar data and plot the movements of various targets. … Read more
In a world driven by fast-evolving technology, there are those who still appreciate the humble floppy disk. Once a staple in computer storage, the floppy disk has become a nostalgic symbol of the past. While floppy disks might seem obsolete, there are still industries and enthusiasts keeping them alive due to their unique reliability and … Read more
Mechanical drafters have been a crucial part of designing machinery and tools. While their work often involves creating layouts and detailed diagrams of mechanical devices, the field is shifting. 3D design is becoming more important, making traditional drafting skills less common. The demand for mechanical drafters isn’t disappearing, though. Their skills are evolving with new … Read more
The telex operator once played a vital role in global communication. Using teletype machines, these operators were responsible for sending and receiving text-based messages, similar to a text message today. The telex system allowed businesses and organizations to share information instantly across long distances, making it revolutionary for its time. As technology evolved, telex operators … Read more
Before the era of digital printing and vinyl ads, billboard painters were the artists who transformed massive outdoor canvases into vibrant displays. These skilled individuals captured attention with their brushstrokes, creating advertisements that were not only effective but also short-lived masterpieces. With the rise of new technologies, the demand for hand-painted billboards decreased, leading to … Read more
In a world brimming with modern technology, it’s easy to forget the skilled hands that once crafted everyday objects. Among these forgotten professions is that of the ballpoint pen assembler. Ballpoint pen assemblers were the unsung heroes who meticulously put together the components of the pens that many still carry in their pockets today. The … Read more
In the early days of the stock market, stock ticker operators played a crucial role in the financial industry. They were responsible for running the machines that printed the latest stock prices on ticker tape, providing essential information to brokers and traders. With advancements in technology, the role of the stock ticker operator has become … Read more
The world of work has evolved drastically, creating a host of jobs that have either vanished or transformed significantly. Among such forgotten roles is that of the morgue photographer, an intriguing yet somber profession that once played a vital role in crime scene investigations and forensic documentation. Once an essential aspect of forensic science, the … Read more
The role of a cable splicer once held great importance in establishing and maintaining telecommunications networks. Cable splicers worked on splicing together and installing various types of cables, such as fiber optic, coaxial, and copper cables, ensuring connections remained strong and efficient. Though technology has advanced, and the role has become less common, the skill … Read more
In an era before digital text and laser printing, hot metal typesetting was at the heart of the publishing world. Workers in this field, called typesetters, would shape lines of text using molten metal. This process was integral to the daily news and book production, making the craft both essential and widely respected. Hot metal … Read more