08/03/2026
Ten years ago today, I started Cox Machine LLC.
For ten years, I gave this business everything I had. Not some of me. Not most of me. Everything.
Today, Cox Machine is closing its doors.
There are a lot of emotions that come with writing those words. Pride. Gratitude. Sadness. Frustration. Grief.
When you dedicate a decade of your life to building something, you naturally expect it to leave you with something to show for it. Instead, I find myself saying goodbye to the company that consumed most of my waking hours for the last ten years.
Despite how painful this ending is, I remain proud of what we built. I'm proud of the work we did. I'm proud of the customers we served. Most of all, I'm proud of the people who worked beside me along the way.
I am also incredibly grateful to the community that supported us. One of the greatest gifts this business gave me was the opportunity to give back. Whether through supporting local organizations, helping where we could, creating jobs, or simply being part of the fabric of Northern Michigan, Cox Machine allowed me to contribute to a community that I love deeply. For that, I will always be thankful.
To our employees, customers, suppliers, friends, family, and community members: thank you for believing in us and helping us reach this milestone, even if it ultimately became our final one.
Ten years. A decade of hard work, sacrifice, lessons, friendships, and memories that I will carry forward long after the machines stop running.
Thank you for being part of the journey.
