TSTC student finds match for interests in machining program

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – With a natural aptitude, drive and interest in machining, Ryan Stehle fits right in to the Precision Machining Technology program at Texas State Technical College.

“He does not wait for the instructor to tell him to go to the next step,” said Deogratias Nizigiyimana, lead instructor for the program on TSTC’s campus in Fort Bend County. “He’s really wonderful. He always wants to work.”

Stehle is on track to graduate with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Precision Machining Technology in December.

What got you interested in machining?

I’ve just always had an interest in it. There are a few shops here in my hometown, and one of my family friends is a machinist. I’ve just always enjoyed it.

How did you make the decision to enroll in the Precision Machining Technology program at TSTC?

I had a bunch of friends going to TSTC’s campus in Waco. In my junior and senior year, I looked into it, and seeing the industries I could take, I saw Precision Machining Technology. I decided that was what I wanted to do.

How has your experience at TSTC been so far?

Still pretty good — just taking the classes, good professors. All of it’s really new. It’s all interesting in its own right. The best thing is probably relationships with classmates and whatnot. New friendships.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

Right now, I’ve got a job in Sugar Land. I don’t know how well it’ll suit me up there, so I’ll probably plan on coming back close around my hometown to find a job close to here, Hallettsville.

What advice do you have for prospective students who may be interested in Precision Machining Technology?

Just to have a good work ethic — and learn math, for sure.

What do you want people to know about TSTC and the Precision Machining Technology program?

It’s a fun time being there — classmates, the student environment, good classes. You learn a lot. I’ll probably miss it a little bit (after graduation), but I’m glad to get on with life.

Computer numerically controlled (CNC) tool programmers can earn an average annual salary of $57,670 in Texas, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Onetonline.org forecasts 29% growth for such positions over the next seven years in the state.

The Precision Machining Technology program is part of TSTC’s Money-Back Guarantee initiative — a testament to how much demand there is for such positions in the workforce. Precision Machining Technology students who graduate from TSTC and do not find a job in their field in six months will receive a refund of their tuition. 

Learn more about TSTC at tstc.edu.