(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Cristobal Davila, 41, is a two-time Texas State Technical College graduate. In 2015 he earned an associate degree in Business Management Technology and a certificate in Automotive Technology in 2018.
The single dad of two boys worked mostly as a security officer before attending TSTC, and said he finally found his dream job in February when he was hired as an inventory control technician for TSTC’s Central Receiving department.
At an early age, Davila enlisted in the U.S. Army and served eight years, never thinking college was in his future, but he said it was his boys and his desire for a better life that inspired him to enroll.
What was your reaction when you first learned about your job offer?
When I learned about my job offer it was an emotional time for me. Even being at new employee orientation was surreal. Life has been a struggle, but now I have a great paying career, benefits and a work/life balance that allows me to be home with my sons more. I still get emotional thinking about it.
How did TSTC prepare you for your career?
TSTC prepared me for my career in more ways than one. Yes, the training I received was invaluable, I gained and learned skills that set me up for success, but TSTC also taught me soft skills such as how to be a better communicator and leader. I was a work-study student with TSTC Procurement and this allowed me to grow as a person and professional; it provided a number of opportunities for me.
What has had the greatest influence on your success?
First, there’s my sister Rebecca Davila, who also works at TSTC as an executive assistant for Student Development. She encouraged me to enroll at TSTC and motivated me throughout my educational journey. She always has my best interest in mind. Last but not least, are Ruben Ochoa, TSTC Inventory Control supervisor and Linda Rodriguez-Guillen, executive director of Procurement, for giving me the opportunity to begin my career here at TSTC.
What are your future goals?
I hope to someday buy a home for my boys and I, something we can call our own. Also, I’ve never had a new car, so that’s something I would like to accomplish as well. And finally, I hope to just continue working hard and being a good example for my boys so that they too can establish goals and dreams they can work toward.
What would you tell a student thinking of pursuing a two-year degree vs. a four-year degree?
From someone who regrets not attending college earlier in life, I would tell someone to take advantage of any type of education you can get. Four-year degrees are great, but a two-year degree can also get you job-ready, give you skills that will give you an edge against others applying for the same job and that will make you more marketable. A two-year degree is a great starting point.
What is your advice for future TSTC students?
My advice for future TSTC students is to always have a goal that you are working toward, stay focused and don’t sell yourself short.
