TSTC student enjoys working on electrical puzzles during class

(ABILENE, Texas) – Being able to put pieces of an electrical puzzle back together is intriguing to Kevin Smith.

That has been one of the highlights for Smith while taking Electrical Power and Controls classes at Texas State Technical College. He is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree, which he knows can position him well for a great-paying career.

“I enjoy the hands-on approach we have in the lab environment,” he said. “I really liked the motor controls part of the class. It is fun to look at where things were in the diagram and then take it apart. It is like we get to put the pieces to the puzzle back together again.”

Smith said instructors Kevin Staton and Cody Davis are providing him with a good formula for success.

“They walk us through each step of the program and show us the best way to solve the problem,” he said.

Staton said Smith’s willingness to learn is evident in class.

“He is always on top of everything he does,” Staton said. “His willingness to learn is among the best I have seen. He is always motivated to learn and help others. That will make him a great employee for someone in this field.”

Smith said his classmates are also willing to help each other.

“We do a lot of talking with each other,” he said. “We have been in touch when something comes up so we can be successful.”

After reviewing the TSTC course catalog before he enrolled, Smith, of Hurst, knew that TSTC would be the best college for him to earn a degree.

“I was looking at different programs. After reviewing the course catalog, this program was the best for me,” he said. “I have not regretted coming here to learn from the best.”

The fact that TSTC graduates are in high demand also appealed to Smith.

“The big selling point for me was there is a lot of work out there, and people who complete this program are hired quickly,” he said.

Smith said he learned one thing from the beginning that students need to remember.

“Stay on top of things from the beginning,” he said. “You have to give it your all and follow through with your work. If you follow the course guidelines, you will be successful.”

Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians can make an average salary of $63,260 in Texas, according to onetonline.org. The projected growth for such positions in the state is 8% by 2028, according to the website.

TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Power and Controls in a hybrid format, combining virtual learning with in-person, hands-on lab work. In addition to the Abilene campus, TSTC’s campuses in Fort Bend County, North Texas and Waco offer the program.

Electrical Power and Controls is part of TSTC’s Money-Back Guarantee. If participating students do not find a job in their career field within six months of graduation, they will receive a refund of their tuition.

Registration for the fall semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.