(SWEETWATER, Texas) – Leslie Shubert, of Abilene, knows she is entering a male-dominated industry.
Shubert is beginning her first semester in Texas State Technical College’s Diesel Equipment Technology program in Sweetwater.
“I know there are not many females in this field,” she said. “I think that is because there are a lot of heavy-duty aspects to the job. The males are stronger, but women can do the job if they set their mind to it.”
Shubert has always had an interest in big trucks. Her uncle operated a big rig, and Shubert rode along with him during his travels.
“He would never let me drive it,” she said.
A relative told her about the program at TSTC.
“He told me about the instructors and labs, and it sounded like something I wanted to do.”
Shubert said her family’s support while attending TSTC will be important.
“They are supporting me daily since I have to drive here from Abilene and then back again,” she said. “They know while I am at home there will be a lot of reading during the semester. I know I will have to pay attention to all the details while taking the online courses.”
Shubert was able to begin lab sessions this week and is looking forward to one area of work in particular.
“I really like working on engines. I can’t wait to disassemble and then assemble an engine,” she said. “I enjoy figuring out how things work.”
That started at a young age.
“I helped my dad rebuild a truck engine from scratch,” she said. “I knew then that I wanted to do this for a living. I have always liked tinkering with things.”
Once she completes the program, Shubert has a career goal in mind.
“I would like to either be a shop manager or own my own truck,” she said. “I have always liked trucks and even tractors. I know that working on them will be fun.”
Shubert hopes more women look into the diesel field. She did offer women some advice before pursuing it as a career.
“Do a lot of research. That is the most important thing before selecting any career,” she said.
For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.
