(MARSHALL, Texas) – Jackson Scott has always been a well-rounded individual, from running his own lawn care business, participating in his high school’s agriculture program, and most importantly, a fascination with science.
That fascination led him to enroll in Texas State Technical College’s Process Operations program.
“I do a lot of hands-on things myself, so being able to actually do something big like making chemicals, to be a part of something greater, is what I like to strive for,” he said.
Scott recalled almost choosing a four-year university over TSTC.
“I’d rather do something that’s more hands-on rather than being in a big room with a bunch of people,” he said. “We’re learning how to do these things and seeing it on a bigger scale. I have learned best that way, and I think other people are learning even better that way, too.”
Scott balances his time between the Marshall campus, a part time job in Longview and living in Diana so he can continue running his lawn care business. He said keeping up in class can be challenging with his schedule, but he has succeeded thanks to his instructors and his own determination.
“It’s hard doing it every day, but in the end it’s all going to pay off in a really good way,” he said.
One of Scott’s Process Operations instructors, Jay Listenbee, said he has recognized the effort Scott has made to balance his schedule.
“Applying himself and with his potential, he should be able to succeed in the Process Operations program,” Listenbee said.
Scott plans to apply for an internship with polymer producer Eastman Chemical Co.’s Longview location in his third or fourth semester. He is working towards earning an Associate of Applied Science degree from TSTC in 2026.
“I think with this degree and a background in this field, it will probably be something I could do for life,” Scott said.
According to onetonline.org, gas plant operators earn a median salary of $88,510 in Texas, where the number of these jobs was projected to grow 17% between 2020 and 2030.
TSTC’s Process Operations program is available exclusively at TSTC’s Marshall campus. The program offers an associate degree and a certificate of completion.
Registration for TSTC’s summer and fall semesters is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.
