(HARLINGEN) – Tool and Die Technology at Texas State Technical College is giving students like Andy Juarez a new lease on life.

This is Juarez’s second try at a college education. He came to TSTC a few years back to pursue a degree in Surgical Technology, but had to leave when he needed to help his mother support their family.

“I had to drop out. I had to work,” said Juarez. “My mom needed help paying the bills and I felt like it was my responsibility and school took a back seat.”

Around the same time, Juarez’s younger brother graduated from Tool and Die Technology at TSTC and his success inspired him.

“My brother ended up moving to Dallas and finding a good-paying job,” he said. “He found financial security and I wanted that too. He is the one who pushed me to return to college and pursue Tool and Die.”

The Rio Hondo native now sees the finish line. He is expected to earn his associate degree Fall 2017 and after speaking to supervisors at Arlington-based United States defense contractor and industrial corporation, Raytheon, he has a position waiting for him immediately after he graduates.

“I’m so fortunate to have this opportunity available to me,” said Juarez. “If not for my brother’s support and that of my instructors, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

The 25-year-old said Tool and Die Technology turned out to be more than he could have ever expected.

“We learn something new every day; it never ends,” he said. “The hands-on training is invaluable and the things we can create from nearly nothing is amazing.”

Students like Juarez who enroll in TSTC’s Tool and Die Technology are trained in the field from the bottom, up.

Instructors teach the basics starting with precision tools and measurements to blueprint reading. Lessons then range from learning how to use machines such as drill presses, lathes and computer numerical control (CNC) machines and how to maintenance them.

Tool and Die Technology instructor Rick Limas said this program is  great for a person who loves to work with their hands and mind and enjoy creating components from only a piece of metal.

“There is not one single product that does not go through the machining process,” he said. “Nothing can be produced without us. That’s why the demand for skilled machinists is so high.”

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of machinists and tool and die makers is projected to grow six percent from 2014 to 2024, as fast as the average for all other occupations.

Limas seconds that by saying that across the country skilled machinists are in demand, in particular the South Texas region.

“Our region demands tool and die makers and machinists and at TSTC we work hard to satisfy that demand. Our program job placement rate is nearly 95 percent.”

Juarez and his peers can expect to find jobs in the molding and tool and die, aerospace, automotive and medical industries. They can find careers at local companies such as Fox Valley Molding and Trico Products to national companies such as Toyota, Rave Gears and Machining Company, Delta Centrifugal and Raytheon.

“It’s a great feeling being able to create precise components for planes, trains, automobiles and even prosthetics that can change someone’s life,” said Limas. “And I’m glad we’re teaching our students to do just that.”

As for Juarez he said he is ready for the big changes that will be happening in his life thanks to TSTC.

“I’m prepared, more than ready to begin my career because of TSTC,” he said. “TSTC has prepared me to conquer the machining world.”

For more information or to register for Tool and Die Technology visit tstc.edu.