(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Miguel Zoleta’s passion for transmissions and engines revved his gears right into a position at Texas State Technical College, where he is now a lead instructor in the Automotive Technology program.
Jobs in the automotive industry are growing rapidly. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is predicted to continue climbing because of new technology. This means that more mechanics are needed to figure out what is happening under the hood of a vehicle when the inevitable check engine light comes on. Instructors like Zoleta are making it possible for TSTC to provide the Lone Star State with mechanics who are ready to get Texans back on the road.
What do you enjoy about working with students?
I enjoy seeing students succeed. Many of them come into the program without knowing anything about cars, and they graduate with lots of knowledge and confidence that they will do good things in their careers. There is nothing more rewarding than having graduates come back to visit and tell you how thankful they are for what you taught them and describe how well they are doing in the industry.
What inspired you to get into this career path and higher education?
I have always enjoyed working on cars. After high school I enrolled in Automotive Technology here at TSTC. My learning experience was awesome. I enjoyed how all the instructors made you feel like family. After graduating I went on to work in the diesel industry, and after a few years I received the opportunity to come back to TSTC.
Do you have any advice for students considering this path?
The automotive industry is growing in many different ways. This is a great career with many opportunities to be very successful. I encourage anyone interested to come in for a tour of our Automotive Technology program so that they can see firsthand what we have to offer here at TSTC.
Curious about getting your hands under the hood of a vehicle? Visit https://www.tstc.edu/programs/AutomotiveTechnology to learn more about Automotive Technology at TSTC.
