(FORT BEND) – Houston native Salman “Sal” Maredia is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County studying Precision Machining Technology, a field his father inspired him to pursue.

“My dad always had a dream of opening his own automotive engineering shop,” said Maredia. “But he was our family’s provider so he needed to work and needed something with a quick turnaround. He went into real estate instead.”

Now, Maredia, who holds an impressive 3.8 grade-point average is working toward graduating in Fall 2016 with an associate degree, with hopes of transferring to a local university to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

“My dad has always told me that there is no such thing as impossible as long as I work hard and push myself,” said Maredia. “I’ll take this with me as I carry on with my dad’s dream.”

After graduating in the fall, the 25 year-old has his eye on a few companies he hopes to work for. He said he would like to improve his skills and gain experiences at places such as Schlumberger, Halliburton or General Electric.

But ultimately, Maredia’s dream job is to own an automotive engineering company, where he can manufacture parts for the automotive industry.

At the moment, Maredia said his greatest accomplishment has been being able to quickly learn the different types of machines he will be using in the field someday.

“The more I learn, the more skills I gain needed to build my career,” said Maredia.

The greatest lesson Maredia said he has learned is that he can do anything as long as he applies himself.

“There’s always going to be people who try to discourage you,” said Maredia. “But I just need to work hard to prove myself and remember my worthiness.”

In addition to his dad, who has always pushed him to do his best, Michael Barnes, Maredia’s Precision Machining Technology instructor, is another great influence in his current success as a student.
“He (Barnes) always pushes me, us, to do better,” said Maredia. “He really helps us hone our skills so we become all-around learners.”

Maredia said he hopes one day he can become an inspiration to others, as Barnes has been for him and his classmates, but for now he has some advice to share.

“Ask a lot of questions,” Maredia advises. “When I first enrolled I was a bit shy, but as time went on I learned it’s better to ask questions, it helps me understand everything so much better. Getting help is nothing to be ashamed of. There are no stupid questions.”

Precision Machining Technology is also offered at the North Texas, Waco and Williamson County campuses. For more information on Precision Machining Technology at Fort Bend County call 281-239-1548.

Registration begins April 4. Apply or register anytime online at tstc.edu.

Houston native Salman “Sal” Maredia is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County studying Precision Machining Technology. He will be graduating Fall 2016 with his associate degree.