Man in metallica shirt standing in front of harnesses.

(SWEETWATER, Texas) – Omar Chavez wants to leave his past behind while he moves forward with his second chance in life.

Chavez, who is originally from Mineral Wells, is starting the next chapter of his life by studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Wind Energy Technology at Texas State Technical College. It was during a conversation with a friend that Chavez decided to better his life.

“I told myself I wanted to get out of my previous lifestyle,” the 44-year-old said. “That is why I am here. My friend told me that I looked horrible and that I was better than what I was. She said our lives have purpose. I sold my motorcycle, which began my lifestyle change.”

While in a rehabilitation program in Abilene, Chavez learned about TSTC’s Wind Energy Technology program.

“I liked the thrill of this career,” he said. “I did not want to be a warehouse worker. I have a fear of heights, but that is another fear I am going to conquer.”

Chavez learned earlier this semester that he was a recipient of the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) scholarship. He became emotional when his instructor, Billie Jones, told him about the award.

“Wow,” he said. “For the band to be helping people like me and the other students, that shows what type of people they truly are. My hat is off to them for helping people begin careers.”

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands, in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges, MSI began with 10 colleges and primarily manufacturing programs. MSI offers diverse workforce opportunities for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to find meaningful and well-paying careers. Now in its sixth year, MSI has a presence in 60 colleges across all 50 states and in the territory of Guam.

Jones said Chavez brings a quality to the program that she likes to see in students.

“He has an awesome attitude and always stays on top of his work,” Jones said. “He does help other students and our program during on-campus events. He is really making sure he succeeds in the program and life.”

Chavez said he talks to students about his past to show them they can succeed, no matter the obstacles.

“I tell them that there is a lot ahead of them and to enjoy life,” he said.

Chavez also has a message for Metallica since he is now a Metallica Scholar.

“I am going out and getting a Metallica tattoo,” he said. “I am so proud to be part of the select group of students who received this honor.”

According to onetonline.org, the need for wind turbine service technicians in Texas was forecast to increase 102% from 2020 to 2030. The average annual salary for a technician in Texas is $59,290, according to the website.

TSTC’s Wind Energy Technology program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and a certificate of completion at the Harlingen and Sweetwater locations.

Registration for TSTC’s spring semester is underway. To learn more, visit tstc.edu.

kidwind 1 300x189 - TSTC Wind Energy Technology student takes advantage of second chance

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