(RED OAK, Texas) – Crystal Conroy, a single mother and U.S. Army veteran, recently received her certificate of completion from the MEI (Mechanical, Electrical and Information) Technology Data Center Pathway program at Texas State Technical College’s North Texas campus. She was part of the program’s first cohort.
“I’ve really enjoyed this program a lot and I think a lot of people are going to benefit from it,” the Whitney native said. “I know the data center industry is realizing they need more skilled professionals, and I’m really proud of TSTC for stepping up.”
Conroy developed an interest in technology when her eldest son began teaching her about computer parts and terminology. She looked into TSTC’s MEI program and found hands-on lessons far from desk work she had expected. She said she found the program empowering, helping her get over her fear of working with electricity and boosting her confidence.
Several of the students who participated in the MEI program’s first cohort were given full scholarships, including Conroy.
“I’m a single mom that works 55 to 60 hours a week and it’s a little tight sometimes, even with what I do,” Conroy said. “Knowing that I could advance myself and make a better life for me and the kids and it’s not a strain was really, really good.”
Andrew Mills is an Industrial Systems instructor at TSTC’s North Texas campus and the lead instructor for the MEI program. He said that Conroy proved herself to be an exceptional student.
“Despite a taxing work and life schedule to manage, she always showed up to class ready to work and took responsibility and initiative for her education,” Mills said. “She showed a sense of leadership among her peers and was a beneficial presence in the classroom throughout the duration of the MEI program.”
Conroy has enrolled in TSTC’s Computer Networking and Systems Administration program and will begin taking classes in January.
“I’m proud of stepping up, putting myself out there, and showing myself and everyone else that I can do something if I put my mind to it,” she said.
For more information on the MEI Technology Data Center Pathway program, go to tstc.edu/datacenters.
For more information on TSTC, go to tstc.edu.