Hands-on learning led to drafting job

Decisions about a college major and a career were unclear for Dustin Best until he heeded the advice of an elderly gentleman.

The two chatted outdoors while Best – still a Merkel High School student – practiced with his dirt bike. The stranger inquired about his college plans and the young man replied that he was leaning toward engineering. The man suggested drafting because it could help him develop an interest in a specific aspect of engineering. Research led Best to Computer Aided Drafting and Design at TSTC West Texas.

As a drafter, Best converts engineers’ sketches drawn on paper into computer images. Eventually, he plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

“My instructors encouraged me, but they also challenged me,” he said. “TSTC gave me a head start on a four-year degree with the knowledge I gained there and the knowledge I gain at Meers Engineering.”

 

 

Associate of Applied Science, Computer Aided Drafting and Design

TSTC West Texas, August 2010

Drafter, Meers Engineering Inc., Abilene, TX