(ABILENE, Texas) – After researching Texas State Technical College’s Industrial Systems program, Jayden Carson knew it was a perfect fit.
The Blanket native is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree with plans to work in the Brownwood area after graduation.
Carson said one of the reasons he knew it was the right choice was because of how he interacted with the world around him.
“I was always wrenching on things around the house. I really enjoy taking things apart and putting them back together,” he said. “I have always been around vehicles, and enjoyed working on them. This is a career that seemed like a natural fit.”
After seeing the equipment available at TSTC, Carson said his career plans were set.
“All of the equipment is amazing,” he said. “To be able to train on this technology will make me better. I have always been a hands-on learner. This program is all about working with your hands and solving problems.”
Carson said instructors Daniel Diaz and Terry Steelman are the ideal duo to teach students.
“Daniel likes to see things and talk with us about it, while Terry has the more hands-on perspective of the project,” he said. “They are a perfect combination because both work to make sure we know how to do something correctly.”
While Carson said he felt alone in the program when he started in the fall, talking to classmates led to new friendships.
“We all like to hang out during breaks and go to lunch together,” he said. “As time went on, we grew closer as a group.”
After graduation, Carson hopes to work at 3M in Brownwood. He received a scholarship from the company to continue his time at TSTC.
“I am very appreciative of the scholarship,” he said. “During our job fair, the 3M representatives set up time for me to do an interview, and have asked me to stay in touch with them while in school.”
Steelman said that Carson’s work ethic will be valued by any employer.
“Jayden will have a lot of success wherever he decides to go,” he said. “He has talked to potential employers who are impressed with his knowledge.”
The need for industrial machinery mechanics will increase over the next few years. According to onetonline.org, such positions are expected to grow by 13% in Texas by 2028. The average salary for an industrial machinery mechanic in Texas is $57,600, according to the website.
At its Abilene campus, TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Industrial Systems – Mechanical Specialization and a certificate of completion in Industrial Systems Mechanic.
Industrial Systems is one of nine programs at TSTC that have money-back guarantees. The college’s commitment to students is simple: If they do not have a job in their field within six months of graduation, they will receive a full refund of their tuition. For more information on the money-back guarantee program, visit tstc.edu/admissions/tuition/.
Registration for the fall semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
