Career Program: Automated Manufacturing Systems Technologies
Originally From: Combined Locks / Kimberly / Appleton, WI
Current Residence: Combined Locks
Year Started at FVTC: 2024
Why did you choose this career program?
I have always enjoyed complicated 3D puzzles and being mechanical. When I took robotics in high school, I really enjoyed the mechanical and programming side of it. During the middle of my senior year of high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do until my mom told me about working in an industrial setting fixing machines and robots. Since industry development is always improving, it would be a great field to use my interest.
What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?
How you can make something do something in multiple ways. It was interesting to learn how different people think and how everyone can get the same job done in their own way. That’s what also makes it rewarding: having the creativity to try something different and still have a system work the same way.
Why did you choose Fox Valley Technical College?
It was really close to home, and I liked that I could complete my degree in two years so I would get out to the work force faster. Big colleges always seemed intimidating and extra for me; I didn’t really care for the “college experience.” I wanted to work as soon as I can, but I knew I needed some sort of schooling to brace myself when looking for a job. FVTC provided all the benefits I needed to live my life how I wanted to.
How has Fox Valley Technical College helped you change your life?
There are so many answers to this question. To list a few: my learning, meeting people, discovering different interests, being adaptable, overall exploring and making me feel happy that I get to come to school every day. I never thought I would be the type of person that is so excited to come to school every day but I am. With the relationships I’ve built, I love coming to class and clocking in for my internship because there are people all around me that encourage and joke with me, which just makes me happy.
What type of job do you expect to find after graduation?
I have already found a job I feel I will pursue for many years in my life. At the moment, I am reading wiring prints and building panels. That will transition into building small machines that will be added to larger machines. Then I will help assemble these large machines and really learn how they work. From there, I hope to be part of the development and engineering team who designs, programs and tests new machines. Overall, I want to find a job where I can always improve my skills and be a part of a great team.
What’s your best advice for someone who’s not sure they’re ready for college?
It’s not hard; you just got to do it, and you don’t know ’til you’re actually doing it.
Lightning Round!
Best on-campus place to study: In the classrooms I regularly learn in.
One class you surprisingly enjoyed: My PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) classes: such hard work but the biggest reward.
One class that challenged you: My current Cell Integration class—it’s my capstone project!
One thing every FVTC student must experience on campus before graduating: See EVERYTHING! There are so many cool classrooms that I never knew existed that just makes your jaw drop.
Pro tip for newcomers trying to find their way around campus: Keep a personal map with you, I have one on my phone so I can always find my way around.
