TSTC students turn doing what they love into careers

(MARSHALL, Texas) – According to Apollo Technical, 65% of workers in the United States are satisfied with their jobs, but only 20% say they are passionate about them. Texas State Technical College instructors and staff not only want their students to find higher-paying jobs, they want them to pursue what fascinates them.

“If you truly believe in what we do at TSTC, then (our students’) success and happiness is our success and happiness,” Angela Bross, Marshall campus counselor for TSTC, said.

Bross said job satisfaction can have a direct link to mental health. Studies from the University of Manchester, Business News Daily and Ohio State University have shown her that burnout in young adults can lead to depression, fragmented sleep, and problems with one’s physical health later in life.

“Doing a job you love comes more effortlessly and passionately — it can be something you look forward to every day,” Bross said. “The fact is, if you are doing it solely for the money, you end up getting burnt out, unhappy, resentful and (having) low productivity.”

TSTC student Robert Smith Jr. discovered his love of both fixing things and complex electricity when he was very young. After 17 years of following his drive as an industrial electrician with Prysmian Group, he decided to further his education at TSTC. 

“My goal is to move up to a higher position,” Smith said. “If you can love what you do, you can respect it more. If you love it, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

Smith is working toward his Associate of Applied Science degree in the Industrial Systems program at TSTC’s Marshall campus.

Electrical Lineworker and Management Technology student David Tomaszewski has loved outdoor, hands-on work since he began roofing houses at age 10. He became interested in linework after learning that it could take him all over the world. He is working toward his certificate of completion.

“To me, it’s important to be happy,” Tomaszewski said. “I believe hard work is the best work.”

Computer Networking and Systems Administration student Jorge Zimmerman always knew that his gift for math would one day be a part of his career. He chose to combine his talents with computers.

“I have found little things to be passionate about that I didn’t even expect,” Zimmerman said. “I figured out I really enjoy wiring. I really like the ethernet cables and how they’re made. Those little things I find really help me in particular.”

Zimmerman is excited to earn his associate degree, find a job, and fulfill his dream of owning a house in the future.

For more information on TSTC, go to tstc.edu.