(WACO, Texas) – Zachary Muth is planning to continue his education in the fall.
Muth, who graduated from Texas State Technical College’s Diesel Equipment Technology program last month, wants to add an occupational skills award in welding to his associate degree.
“I plan to return this fall because the more skills I have, the better my chances of being hired,” he said. “I am currently looking at all of my options in the diesel field.”
Muth likes the options because they have one thing in common.
“I have always liked working with my hands. I was never a big fan of sitting behind a desk,” he said.
Muth was drawn to TSTC after attending an open house suggested by his high school English teacher.
“I have always been interested in cars, but I wanted to do that more as a hobby,” he said. “I was looking for a career, and after touring the diesel program, I could see myself doing this as a career.”
Entering his final semester, Muth said he overcame the challenge of motivating himself to complete online work. He said the best part of his week is when he is in the lab, completing a task.
Having experienced instructors helped him overcome other obstacles.
“I was never into the electronics and how things may work. All of the instructors are great in understanding how you need help in some areas,” he said.
The instructors also help students by bringing in company representatives for job interview sessions.
“The instructors have so many different contacts. We had a company from Georgetown in here one day for interviews,” Muth said.
Muth said he is proud of completing his associate degree work and hopes other people look at TSTC for a career.
“If you have recruiters come to your campus, listen to what they have to say,” he said. “TSTC is a good launching point for a lot of hands-on skills.”
As for the fall, Muth is ready to learn a different trade in welding. The occupational skills award allows students to take a nine-week course to learn basic technical skills needed for an entry-level career.
“I am ready to learn a different skill to help me with a career,” he said. “I am excited to be part of the welding program and look forward to what I learn.”
For more information, visit tstc.edu.
