TSTC Electromechanical Technology student strives for career in fixing things

(SWEETWATER, Texas) – Alayna Botts enjoys taking things apart and putting them back together.

After researching the best place to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, Botts, of Lufkin, said Texas State Technical College ranked high on her list. Now in her second semester of the Electromechanical Technology program at TSTC’s Sweetwater campus, Botts is eager to learn more about her chosen profession and already has a job waiting for her when she completes the program.

“I always liked working on electrical and mechanical things, so I decided I should earn a degree in that field,” she said.

Botts had started taking courses at a community college when she realized there could be more out there for her to learn. That is when her research began, and TSTC was the first school to show up in her internet search results.

“TSTC was the biggest school out there that can do this type of training,” she said. “I have not been disappointed.”

Botts said having quality equipment to train on is helping her prepare for her future.

“The equipment is a lot better here than most places,” she said. “We have so much equipment to train with so we can learn what needs to go where.”

Instructor Arnoldo Soto said Botts has the motivation to learn and to make sure that others stay on course.

“She works hard in class every day,” he said. “Her drive to learn and help others is what I am impressed with the most. She is going to have a great career in this field.”

Botts said the instructors work hard to ensure that she and the other students are successful.

“The instructors at TSTC care about you. If you are struggling, they want to see what you are doing wrong,” she said. “They want to know if you are actually struggling with the assignment or just having a bad day. They want to make sure we succeed. They are always there to help us get out of our funk.”

Botts said being the only female student in her cohort is not a negative issue for her.

“I have always been one of the guys, so this is normal for me,” she said. “I hope to see more women look into this field. It is a great career.”

Botts said her father deserves the credit for her chosen field.

“My dad pushed me this way,” she said. “I have always liked taking apart little remote cars and putting them back together.” 

According to onetonline.org, the need for electromechanical and mechatronic technologists and technicians will increase by 13% by 2028. The website states that the median salary for these technicians in Texas is $52,010.

In addition to the Electromechanical Technology associate degree program, TSTC offers a certificate of completion in Electromechanical Technician that can be completed in 16 months. Both are available exclusively at the Sweetwater campus.

For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.