Category Archives: All TSTC

TSTC Students Reach for the Stars at ULA

(HARLINGEN) – In a recent tour of United Launch Alliance, Texas State Technical College students were introduced to ULA employee and TSTC alumna Brittany Campbell.

Campbell, 21, graduated from TSTC in August 2015 with her associate degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology. The Los Fresnos native said she first became interested in the aviation industry at a young age.

After graduating from Los Fresnos High School in 2013, her plan was to enlist in the United States Air Force. However, when her plans fell through, TSTC was there to give her a future.

“Things happened and I couldn’t take off,” said Campbell. “I found TSTC and the aviation program and decided to give it a try. I ended up enjoying every bit of it and found a job I love.”

Campbell began working with ULA the Monday after she received her degree, although she had officially been hired a few months before graduation. She became familiar with the company at a TSTC job fair and through ULA representative visits on campus.

“TSTC prepared me for this job, there were no surprises,” said Campbell. “The hands-on approach from the instructors trained me for the field. Their help was invaluable to my experience and the skills I gained.”

Tim Pillar, ULA site lead said it is Campbell’s understanding of the industry and abilities that set her apart from other candidates.

“TSTC gives students like Campbell the starting point to take off from when they get to ULA,” said Pillar. “They have an understanding of process and discipline required in the industry.”

During the recent tour at ULA, Pillar told students that ULA’s history with TSTC dates back to 1987 when they opened their doors in Harlingen. The first technicians they hired were trained at TSTC and many more have been hired since then. Pillar added that TSTC is the first place they look for new employees when a position becomes available at their site.

“We see TSTC students as a cut above other candidates,” said Pillar. “By pursuing post high school education these students are already demonstrating they want more earning potential than that from a high school degree.”

More than 70 students who are preparing to graduate within the next two semesters from Aviation Maintenance, Precision Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Telecommunications and Air Conditioning and Refrigeration were invited for the tour.

“The significance of them touring our facility gives students a unique insight into aerospace manufacturing,” said Pillar. “They get a sense for high standards set in the work environment and the importance of our product to mankind and society.”

Viviana Espinosa, interim director of Talent Management/Career Services at TSTC, said the ULA tour was a part of the Employee Spotlight series, a presentation requested by an employer when they are looking to hire TSTC graduates.

“This tour was a little different, usually employers come to campus to talk to our students,” said Espinosa. “But ULA invited us this time and they’re ready to meet and hire our students. We couldn’t be more appreciative of this opportunity.”

To learn more about the services offered by TSTC’s Talent Management/Career Services department call 956-364-4940.

Registration for summer and fall semesters begins April 4. Apply online anytime at tstc.edu.

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Student Success Profile – Roel Gonzalez

(HARLINGEN) – Roel Gonzalez from Los Fresnos is pursuing an associate degree in Equipment Technology at Texas State Technical College. He expects to graduate Summer 2017 and currently has a 3.0 grade point-average. Gonzalez said he first became interested in the biomedical equipment field when a family friend who owns a business in the industry introduced him to the field. When Gonzalez is not studying he is busy with the Intramural Sport Club, where he serves as the club’s treasurer.

What are your plans after graduation? My plans after graduation are to move to Corpus Christi and continue my education in business. I would also like to work in a hospital as a biomedical technician to help pay for school and get experience.

What’s your dream job? My dream job is to work as a level-three technician in a research hospital and become the head technician in dialysis.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC? My greatest accomplishment as of right now is simply attending college. There were days I felt college was not for me, but I have stuck with it, When I finally earn my diploma I will be able to call that my greatest accomplishment at TSTC.

What is the greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life? I have learned that if I actually try and put my mind to something then there is nothing I cannot do. Nothing in life is handed to you and if you want something you must put the time and effort to get it. The most important thing that life has taught me is that family is everything and they will always be there for me.

Name a TSTC person who has most influenced your success? Daisy Bujanos, my girlfriend who I met here at TSTC, is someone that has influenced me in a very powerful way. The times I felt like quitting she was there to calm me down and help me get through my tough time. She is someone that I admire and love so much, and because of her I am still here working on my associate degree to become a biomedical technician.

What is your advice for future TSTC students? My advice to future TSTC students is to take advantage of all TSTC has to offer. It’s a great college to attend and I highly recommend it. I also want to advise students to not quit and keep pushing through because the outcome will be rewarding and worth it.

TSTC Car Show to Benefit Student Veterans

(HARLINGEN) – Nearly 30 student veterans at Texas State Technical College have been awarded veteran scholarships by the Veteran Students Alliance Club, a student-run organization that helps veterans and their families with the transition to civilian life and assists them with getting the veteran benefits available to attend TSTC.

To continue awarding scholarships, a tradition started by the club in 2013, the Veteran Students Alliance Club will host a Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on March 26 at the TSTC campus.

This is the second annual show. The club’s president Maria Rincon, said last year’s show was a success, earning approximately $2,100 and having more than 60 car show contestants.

“Our goal for this year is to get more car show participants,” said Rincon. “With more contestants, we raise more money and increase the number of students we help. This is our way of giving thanks to the veterans for their service.”

All proceeds from the car show go toward veteran student scholarships. Every semester, three students receive a $300 scholarship that can be used to cover tuition, books and supplies, or room and board.

Student veterans who apply for the scholarship must have prior military service, 90 plus days, or 30 days medical discharge; be a part-time student; have a 2.0 grade-point average and complete a 300 word essay.

There are 12 competitive categories car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts can compete in such as muscle, classic and work in progress. There are first and second place awards for every category including three specialty awards: President’s Choice, People’s Choice, and Club Affiliation.

The show is free and open to the public, but for those wanting to contribute to the club’s mission, tickets can be purchased for $1. Each tickets counts as one vote for their favorite car, truck or motorcycle in each competition category.

Food and drinks will also be available for purchase.

“All money raised from competitors, spectators and vendors goes a long way when you’re helping students pursue an education,” said Steve Guevara, Veterans Center director.

Any vendors interested in advertising their services at the show can purchase a table for $50. Sponsorships for gift cards or discounts are also welcomed. Gift cards and discounts will be used as door prizes for car show contestants.

To enter a car, truck or motorcycle in the “Show ‘N’ Shine category preregistration is $10 and ends March 18. The registration price after March 18 is $20. Any vehicle in this category is only eligible for specialty awards.

The “Competition” registration fee is $20 preregistration until March 18 and $30 after that. This category is eligible for specialty awards and first and second place trophies all competition categories.

Registration for “Competition” and “Show ‘N’ Shine” ends March 26.

For more information or to request a registration form contact Jose Villegas at 956-364-4387.

Event Information:

March 26

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

TSTC Student Center Parking Lot (off Oak St.)

1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, Texas 78550

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Student Success Profile – Billy Ruiz

(FORT BEND) – Billy Ruiz, 37, from Rosenberg is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County working toward a certificate in Precision Machining Technology. He expects to graduate in August 2016.

What are your plans after graduation?

I want to find a job in the machining industry as an operator. I would like to work for Schlumberger, but I know there are also a lot of opportunities outside of the oil industry. We’ll see what the future holds.

What’s your dream job?

My ultimate dream job is to be a machine programmer. I want to be able to produce a blue print and install the program onto a machine to create a part.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

Everything I’m learning is so new to me. I’ve never done anything like this before, so being able to handle the workload and becoming familiar with the equipment in machining is a huge accomplishment for me.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I have learned that if I stay focused on my classes that I can get through them. Being focused can get you through a number of challenges.

Name a TSTC person who most influenced your success?

The person with the most influence in my success at TSTC is Mr. Michael Barnes. He is the man who took the time to explain the program to me, he introduced me to everything. He is full of great advice and always looking for bigger and better opportunities for his students.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

There are several things I would like to tell future TSTC students. First, do a lot of research on the field you want to study and see if it is right for you. You don’t want to end up picking a field you are not going to be happy with. Second, stay strong, focused and inspired.

TSTC Student Enjoying the Creative Side of Welding

(HUTTO) – James Floyd gained not only law enforcement experience while serving as a military policeman in the U.S. Air Force, but also developed a solid work ethic and leadership skills.

“I learned to see the big picture and can organize the plan to achieve the goal,” he said.

Floyd, 30, of Round Rock is scheduled to graduate in May with an associate degree in Welding Technology from Texas State Technical College at the East Williamson County Higher Education Center in Hutto.

Floyd observed his father take apart, put together and fix equipment of all kinds while he was growing up. From these experiences, Floyd developed an interest in welding and since attending TSTC he has grown to appreciate its science and artistry.

“If you understand the science, you can control the outcome of what you are welding,” shared Floyd.

He enjoyed learning about tungsten inert gas welding which he called a “clean” welding method with no excess fumes. Floyd likes controlling the heat and travel speed of the cutting.

Floyd’s parents were an influence in his choice to attend TSTC. Once he began researching the college and hearing about it from others, he admired the Welding Technology program’s reputation.

Keith Wojcik, a Welding Technology program instructor, said Floyd challenges him in a positive way.

“I find him very driven,” said Wojcik. “Being at the head of the class is not good enough. He’s attentive and asks intelligent questions.”

After graduation, Floyd wants to pursue an airframe and powerplant certification and work in the aerospace welding industry.

The College Preview at TSTC will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 14. For more information go to tstc.edu/openhouse.

Apply today at tstc.edu. Registration for summer and fall semesters begins Monday, April 4.

James Floyd of Round Rock and a Welding Technology student at Texas State Technical College in Williamson County, stands in one of the welding labs used for lessons.

TSTC Alumna Enjoys Hands-On Work With Machines

(WACO) – Heather LeMay is not hesitant to ask questions to further develop in her profession.

LeMay, 25, joined VanTran Industries Inc. in Waco in March 2015 as a maintenance manager. VanTran produces custom liquid filled oil field transformers for worldwide customers.

LeMay graduated in August 2012 from Texas State Technical College with a certificate in Aircraft Airframe Technology. She went back to earn a certificate in Industrial Systems Technology which she received in December 2014.

“There’s no way I would have gotten this job without going to TSTC,” she said.

She is responsible for fixing and maintaining machines, the electrical system and even the building’s plumbing. Most of the machines were built in-house, so LeMay has to figure out without an instruction manual how to make repairs. She credited her co-workers with teaching her about the machines.

“It’s different every day,” LeMay said. “I love the challenge of not knowing if I have worked on something before. I am taking this job opportunity to learn as much as I can.”

LeMay said she was the only female in many of her TSTC classes.

“I would tell other female students to not be scared to show the boys you can do it too,” she said. “I ask questions when needed. My confidence level increased.”

Michael Hubbard, assistant chair and instructor in the Industrial Systems Technology program, was one of her instructors.

“Heather was quiet,” he said. “She would ask questions. She had more ability than she thinks she did.”

LeMay has admired Hubbard’s willingness to help her out offering insights into hydraulics as they arise at work.

“Hubbard is great,” she said. “He is one of the most encouraging instructors I had at TSTC.”

LeMay developed an interest in Industrial Systems Technology while at TSTC because she wanted to learn the the science of how equipment worked.

“I just liked working with my hands and fixing things,” she said.

LeMay likes to fish and hunt deer in her downtime.

For more information on the TSTC Alumni Network, contact The TSTC Foundation at 254-867-3900 or tstc.alumni@tstc.edu.

The College Preview at TSTC will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2. For more information go to tstc.edu/openhouse. Apply today at tstc.edu. Registration for summer and fall semesters begins Monday, April 4.

Heather LeMay of Waco, a Texas State Technical College alumna, is the maintenance manager at VanTran Industries Inc. in Waco.

3-D Printing Streamlines Processes in Drafting

(RED OAK) – Texas State Technical College’s Computer-Aided Drafting program is now using high-tech 3-D printing as a way to streamline processes and teach students more effectively.

“The intent is to 3-D print in every class,” said Victor Ramirez, computer-aided drafting program chair. “The output is no longer the end result of a paper drawing. Because the technology is there for us to print it and see it and have a model of it, that’s what the end result should be.”

Before, the lengthy process involved the drafting students sending plans to the precision machining program to be cut from metal, having it welded, and finally receiving it back to analyze it for changes.

“Now, in engineering and research and design, that all happens virtually,” Ramirez said. “You don’t even have to have a set of drafting prints anymore because you have a 3-D model. You send that 3-D model to the printer and it prints out. It’s really changed the output of manufacturing and design.”

Chace Groves, a student in the Computer-Aided Drafting program, has probably used the 3-D printers the most, working on a project he originally built out of parts from the hardware store.

“I saw a product that I liked, but I wanted to make it better,” Groves said. “I opened up my tool box and built one, brought it to Mr. Ramirez and asked him what he thought.”

According to Ramirez, the first three variations of Groves’ project took three months to make.

“He did the drawings, but it had to be fabricated by somebody else,” Ramirez said. “It was a process. Draw it, have it fabricated, see what it looks like and make revisions.”

After the program started 3-D printing, the processing time was shortened by more than half.

“After printing the first one, we critiqued it and designed a second iteration of it,” Ramirez said. “These only took days of change, versus months. Once we got used to the printer, from the fourth to the fifth one, it took one day. Now we’re able to design so fast with the software, it’s the printing process that takes the most time.”

Groves believes the printing process is beneficial to the program, and has created most of the projects used in the mechanical class.

“When we print out the plans, it’s one thing to look at it on the computer or print this out on a sheet of paper,” Groves said. “It’s another thing to hold it and work with it. Now we have something for people to look at, and a way for the students to see what they’re actually drawing.”

Since 70 percent of all classes at TSTC require hands-on learning, this is particularly important.

“In classes, some of the students have never seen the parts we talk about,” Ramirez said. “Now when we talk about these things we can pass them around and show threading patterns and nuts and bolts.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 23 percent increase in Texas drafting jobs through 2022, with a median annual salary of $64,240. TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science and a level two certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting at the North Texas campus.

TSTC will begin enrolling new students for the summer and fall semesters on April 4. For more information on the Computer-Aided Drafting program and the college, or to apply, visit www.tstc.edu.

Student Success Profile – Jacob Blazek

(FORT BEND) – Jacob Blazek, 20, from East Bernard is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County. He is pursuing an associate degree in Diesel Equipment Technology with a specialization in heavy trucks. Blazek expects to graduate in August 2016. In addition to going to school full-time, Blazek works part-time in a law office in Wharton to help pay for school.

Blazek said he first discovered his love for diesel technology in high school while taking an agriculture class. He said one of their lessons was in agricultural mechanics, so when it came time to choose a college he knew the diesel equipment program at TSTC was for him.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation I plan on attending TSTC in Waco to continue my education and work toward another associate degree in Diesel Equipment Technology with a specialization in John Deere Construction and Forestry Specialization.

What’s your dream job? I want to work as a diesel mechanic for John Deere, but of course my options are open. I will go where there is opportunity for me.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC? My greatest accomplishment at TSTC was passing my first semester. It took a lot of effort on my part and extra work, but I did it. And I’m now doing well in all of my classes.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life? I have learned that no matter what I need to be on time with my assignments. All of the training we get here applies to school and the workforce. If something for class is not done on time we do not get a grade for it and once I’m working if I do not meet a deadline I risk losing my job.

Name a TSTC person who most influenced your success? Gary Voelkel has been my biggest influence because he has taught me a lot and has been very patient. All of his experience in the field really impacts what we learn and how he teaches it. He is a great instructor.

What is your advice for future TSTC students? I would like to tell other students to make sure to get their work done on time, and no matter how hard it gets, do not give up.

Photo Cut Line: Jacob Blazek from East Bernard, Texas is a student at Texas State Technical College studying Diesel Equipment Technology with a specialization in heavy trucks. He expects to graduate in August 2016 with his associate degree.

TSTC Office Manager Can’t Imagine Herself Anywhere Else

(FORT BEND) – Judy Cox, Texas State Technical College’s office manager in Fort Bend County, started with the college in 2001. Cox said she cannot imagine herself working anywhere else and is excited for the college’s future.

Cox handles all of the day to day duties at TSTC. She is responsible for completing and managing all clerical work, assisting students, faculty and visitors, and helping with recruiting at local community events.

“I love my job. It changes every day, it’s never the same thing,” said Cox. “I enjoy working with people and still being able to work with students, even though I’m not in a classroom setting. Watching them learn and making their own dreams come true is my favorite part.”

Cox comes to TSTC with extensive experience in office management. She worked as a division secretary at Wharton County Junior College for nearly 5 years, prior to that she worked at South Texas Medical Clinic for 3 years.

“When I came to TSTC I knew it was the right place for me,” said Cox. “I could see that technical jobs were the future and TSTC was and still is a leader in educating students for these jobs.”

Coming from a junior college herself, Cox knows the value of a one or two year certificate or degree. She is a product of WCJC, where she earned her associate of arts in 2000. She now finds it her duty to educate students and parents about the benefits of a technical education.

“Many see technical jobs as pertaining only to machinery or automobiles, but it’s so much more,” said Cox. “Many don’t realize what “technical” really is and it’s my mission to expand the knowledge because “technical” is also digital media design, computer science and dental hygiene, only naming a few.”

Cox said with the new TSTC campus opening in August 2016, she is now ready to come together with her team, more than ever, and offer the surrounding communities an affordable, hands-on technical education close to home.

“The whole area has been driven to keep us here, so when I heard about the expansion it was a dream come true,” said Cox. “The programs at our college have been tailored to the growing industries in the area. Students can now study and find a good paying job while staying close to their families.”

Family is important to Cox, she has been married for 11 years and has three daughters. Besides being busy with work, she also finds the time to volunteer at her daughters’ schools with the Parent Teacher Organization and works closely with Jump Rope for Hearts, an organization working to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and strokes.

“After my dad passed away from cardiovascular disease, we made Jump Rope for Hearts an annual family event to raise money for research,” said Cox.

Cox and her daughters also enjoy doing arts and crafts, and baking together. Decorative sugar cookies are their specialty, in addition to creating ornamental crosses out of wire and rocks.

“My girls are my pride and joy. I’m so proud of the young ladies they’re becoming,” said Cox.
When the time comes, Cox said she will encourage her daughters to attend TSTC, the way she encourages others. She said as a parent herself, she understands what it is like to want the best for your children.

“I hope prospective students and their parents keep an open mind when they tour our campus,” said Cox. “Here at TSTC you’re not just a number, you’re a name. It’s a great place to work, a great place to come to school. It’s a great place to be.”

For more information on TSTC in Fort Bend County call 281-239-1548. Registration begins April 4. You can apply anytime at tstc.edu.

Judy Cox is the Office Manager at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County. She has been with TSTC since 2001 and is excited for the region’s new TSTC campus to open in August 2016.

TSTC’s Auto Collision Technology Program Receives National Grant

(WACO) – Tyler Ashby has a passion for paint.

Ashby, 26, of Burleson grew up watching his relatives work on vehicles. He once owned a paint and body shop and through all of this, he discovered he enjoyed automobile painting. Ashby, a first-year student at Texas State Technical College, is pursuing an associate degree in Auto Collision and Management Technology – Refinishing Specialization and a certificate in Auto Collision Repair.

Ashby and other students will soon get to use new equipment to work on in labs. TSTC’s Auto Collision Technology program recently received for the first time a $50,000 Collision Repair Education Foundation Makeover Grant.

“It’s a great idea to have this equipment in the shop,” he said.

Money for the grant was made possible by Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, Caliber Collision, GEICO, Herb’s Collision and Nationwide Insurance. Faculty members put together a wishlist of the program’s equipment needs which will be delivered soon.

“The faculty will be able to continue to sharpen our own skills and then pass that knowledge on to the students,” said Ranson Bandy, an Auto Collision Technology instructor. “The better we learn the better we will be able to teach.”

Second-year student Robert Lee Pecina Jr., 36, grew up in Marlin and remembered watching his grandfather run his own paint and body shop. In high school he toured TSTC and saw the Auto Collision Technology labs. Now living and studying for an associate degree in Auto Collision and Management Technology – Refinishing Specialization in Waco, Pecina said is looking forward to using new air dryer guns.

The program has applied for the grant in recent years and though it did not win the top award before now, it still received gifts in kind such as two wrecked vehicles for students to repair. Through the grant initiative, the program has also received an aluminum repair kit and laptops for instructors to use in class.

“We received several welders that our budget would not allow us to buy,” said Clint Campbell, Auto Collision Technology’s program chair. “We were able to move toward aluminum welding with the equipment.”

Campbell said faculty are planning to apply for the grant again.

“We need to keep our name out there and the work the program does,” Campbell said.

Students can earn associate degrees in Auto Collision and Management Technology – Refinishing Specialization or Repair Specialization. Students can also earn a certificate in Auto Body Refinishing or a Certificate 2 in Auto Collision Repair. The program also offers an enhanced skills certificate in Sheet Metal Fabrication and advanced technical certificates in Auto Body Refinishing and Auto Collision Repair.

The College Preview at TSTC will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2. For more information go to tstc.edu/openhouse.