(HARLINGEN) – The New Year means a new adventure for Texas State Technical College alumnus Jesus Martinez, who graduated Fall 2016 with an associate degree in Tool and Die Technology.

The Mission native will soon call San Antonio home, where he has accepted a position with Takata, an automotive safety systems tool and die shop and supplier.

Martinez will first complete a six-month training in Takata’s Tool and Die Manufacturing, and Tool and Maintenance departments. Upon completing the instruction, he will get to kickstart his career in the department he likes best.

“I’m really excited to be starting my career doing something that I love,” said Martinez. “And getting to see how both departments work makes the opportunity even better.”

It was Martinez’s academic achievements; SkillsUSA awards, SkillsUSA is a national organization serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations; and experience that prepared him for this position.

Martinez graduated from TSTC as a Board of Regent graduate, meaning he obtained a perfect 4.0 grade-point average (all A’s) during his college career. He also competed in SkillsUSA in the Computer Numerical Control Milling category, earning a first place at district and state competitions and eighth place at the national level.

“Jesus was an exemplary student who showed a deep passion for his trade,” said Rick Limas, Tool and Die Technology department chair. “He also shined in soft skills such as punctuality, reliability, and honesty, which are other areas of importance to employers. He’s a hard worker.”

The 21-year-old said it was in high school where he first became interested in machining and then he discovered he was good at it.

He participated in SkillsUSA competitions in high school as well, earning second place awards at the local and state level.

Immediately after high school he was encouraged by his teachers to attend a local university to pursue engineering because of his love for machining, but after two years he realized it was not for him.

“A four-year degree was not for me. I wasn’t enjoying my classes,” said Martinez. “So I withdrew, and that’s when I found TSTC.”

Martinez said TSTC, hands-on learning helped him return to his love of machining.

“I came to TSTC because of the equipment available to students and job placement,” said Martinez. It was the right fit for me and definitely the best choice. I truly enjoyed TSTC. Everything I learned is invaluable.”

Ultimately, Martinez hopes to acquire his certification as a tool and die maker through an apprenticeship program at Takata. He hopes to work his way up to becoming a Computer Numerical Control programmer, or supervisor.

Martinez is one of three Fall 2016 graduates who were hired by Takata.

For more information on Tool and Die Technology, call 956-364-4789.