(ABILENE, Texas) – Larry Walders knows that he will have some reliable career options when he completes the Electrical Power and Controls program at Texas State Technical College.
After serving in the U.S. Air Force and in industrial maintenance, Walders wanted a less physically demanding job. He turned to TSTC and is working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree.
“To make things easier on me, I needed something less physical,” he said. “I started studying physics engineering, but heard TSTC was going to have an opening for this program. I knew this would be the perfect fit for me.”
Instructor Kevin Staton said Walders will have a solid career in the field.
“Larry is very motivated. He has experience in the field, which gives him an upper hand,” Staton said. “He could be one of our most sought-after graduates when he earns his degree.”
Walders said having the hands-on learning experience during lab sessions has enabled him to expand his knowledge.
“When I saw what was available on campus, I knew I was right where I needed to be,” he said. “Having this equipment to train on makes a huge difference.”
Walders also enjoys the class environment because Staton is not far away in case he needs guidance.
“Having the instructor close helps you when you run into an issue,” he said.
Walders said much of what he has learned so far has been a “refresher course” from his time in the workforce.
“There are some things I have not done, like working on a timer,” he said. “It is good to have this available for us to train on.”
Walders said he hopes to find a career in the field. He knows jobs will always be available for one reason in particular.
“No matter what you have, from wind to diesel or solar, electricity is going to be around,” he said. “The jobs for electrical technicians are never going to go away.”
Walders said having TSTC helping him in other aspects, like resume writing and preparing for job interviews, is an additional perk.
“It is good to have that available when we get ready to graduate,” he said. “I want to find a good, stable job in order to provide for my family.”
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians can make an average salary of $63,260 in Texas, according to onetonline.org. The projected growth for such positions in the state is 8% by 2028, according to the website.
TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Power and Controls in a hybrid format, combining virtual learning with in-person, hands-on lab work. In addition to the Abilene campus, TSTC’s campuses in Fort Bend County, North Texas and Waco offer the program.
Electrical Power and Controls is part of TSTC’s Money-Back Guarantee. If participating students do not find a job in their career field within six months of graduation, they will receive a refund of their tuition.
Registration for the summer and fall semesters is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
