(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.