I read about this here. Apparently this doesn't always hold water, but it works for a lot of words.
See optimacomm's article
Basically if you use a word as a noun and also as a verb, you stress the first syllable when using it as a noun and the second as a verb. From the reddit comments this is a first/second syllable contrast if you have more syllables in a word.
Examples:
object, progress, present, desert
I object about the object of this investigation.
As you progress through life, are you making progress towards your goals?
I present you with a priceless present.
He will desert, if we travel through the desert.
Just one of the quirks of English, and something those learning English might find informative.