CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Class of 1986 – Account Systems, Automated Office Technology and Information Processing, Sweetwater Campus

Maria C. Aguirre, M.A., is an accomplished higher education marketing and enrollment executive with over two decades of leadership experience at Texas State Technical College. As TSTC’s vice president of Marketing Operations, she oversees a multimillion-dollar budget and leads comprehensive communication and creative services efforts across the college. Maria plays a key role in brand management, licensing and integrated marketing campaigns that drive student recruitment and institutional visibility. 

Her extensive career at TSTC includes roles in admissions, enrollment management and administrative technology. Maria is a trusted leader with deep expertise in regulatory compliance, media relations and collaborative team development. She is also a passionate advocate for educational access and Hispanic student success.

Maria holds a Master of Arts degree in Management with a concentration in Human Resources and a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Education from Wayland Baptist University. An alumna of Texas State Technical Institute (now TSTC), Maria is deeply committed to the mission of technical education and student success. A bilingual communicator fluent in Spanish, she brings a strong cultural competency to her work and service.

A proud graduate of the National Community College Hispanic Council Leadership Fellows Program, Maria is recognized for her strategic leadership, cultural advocacy and commitment to student success. She serves as vice president of the Hispanic Leadership Council of Abilene and is an active leader in the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education (TACHE). Her recognitions include TSTC’s Chancellor’s Excellence Award and Avery Award of Excellence, and recognition as the namesake of TACHE’s Maria Aguirre Career & Leadership Development Cohort in 2022.

Class of 1987 – Electrical Power Technology, Waco Campus

Pat Beisert is the founder, president and CEO of Vector Power LLC, a forward-thinking energy solutions company dedicated to delivering reliable, efficient and sustainable power services. With decades of leadership experience in the energy and industrial sectors, he has built a career around operational excellence, innovation and customer value.

Pat graduated from Texas State Technical College’s Electrical Systems Technology program in 1987 and began his career as a NETA-certified test technician, performing electrical testing and maintenance in the field. This hands-on foundation gave him a deep understanding of critical power systems and shaped his results-driven leadership style.

Before founding Vector Power, Pat held senior executive roles in the power generation and services industries, overseeing large-scale projects, strategic growth initiatives and organizational transformations. Known for aligning teams around clear goals, he has consistently guided organizations through growth while maintaining a strong focus on safety, reliability and customer satisfaction.

Beyond his professional achievements, Pat is deeply committed to community and education. He has served alongside his wife and family in the youth department of their church, working as a teacher, mentor and advisor to young men to help them prepare for life and leadership. He has also supported TSTC by promoting the school to local high schools, hiring graduates and offering internships to active students, helping build opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals in Texas.

Class of 2016 – Wind Energy Technology, Sweetwater Campus

Aaron Chavarria serves as the Regional Wind Site Manager for NextEra Energy’s Lonestar East Region, overseeing 1.162 GW of wind generation. In this role, he manages all aspects of operations, including safety, environmental compliance, production performance, budgeting, and team leadership.

A graduate of Texas State Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Wind Energy, Aaron began his career in 2016 as a Wind Technician III at Majestic Wind in Amarillo, Texas. He later advanced through multiple technician and leadership roles within NextEra Energy, gaining extensive operational experience across Texas and Wyoming.

Throughout his nine years with the company, Aaron has led teams at several key wind sites, including Roundhouse Wind in Wyoming, Hubbard Wind in Waco, and Woodward Mountain, Indian Mesa, and King Mountain sites in West Texas. In August 2023, he was promoted to his current position as Regional Wind Site Manager, where he oversees operations for Red River West in McCamey, Red River Central in Abilene, and Lonestar East in East and South Texas.

Aaron is passionate about renewable energy and team development, driving operational excellence and sustainability across the region.

Class of 2000 – Computer Maintenance Technology, Waco Campus

Seth Decker, born in Jackson, Wyoming, in 1977, has always been passionate about technology and information security. After earning an associate degree from Texas State Technical College in Waco, he began his career at Dell Computer Corp. as a technician for government and higher education contracts, where his determination and innovation quickly set him apart. These experiences propelled him into significant roles at Dell, Beartooth Computer Consulting Inc., and the Bank of Bridger.

Throughout his career, Seth has specialized in IT development, design and management, ensuring the protection of IT assets in the financial sector. His pursuit of excellence has earned him recognition in the industry working on teams with the FDIC, Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Montana Bankers Association.

Dedicated to community service, Seth participates in initiatives like Computers for Kids, the Special Olympics, and teaching financial literacy through technology at local schools. He currently serves as chief technology officer at the Bank of Bridger in Red Lodge, Montana, and is a member of its board of directors, where he drives innovation in financial technology and information security.

In his free time, Seth enjoys spending time with family, fly fishing, skiing and exploring nature, using these passions to foster creativity and balance in his life and work.

Class of 2012 – Aviation Maintenance, Waco Campus

Kasey Dixon is the systems architecture engineering manager for Combat Systems at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Her aviation career began in the U.S. Army, where she served as an armament and avionics technician on the AH-64D Apache helicopter during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Following her military service, Kasey launched her civilian career from TSTC in Waco, earning her associate degree, Airframe and Powerplant certifications, pilot’s license, and accolades including Aviation Maintenance Student of the Year and the Top Flight Award. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautics and a master’s degree in Human Factors with a concentration in Systems Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Her aerospace experience is broad, spanning aircraft maintenance and predictive maintenance technologies, private jet customer support, manufacturing engineering and design engineering. At Lockheed Martin, she is an emerging leader in human-machine teaming, focusing on human performance and adaptive cockpit design, pilot interface design, and AI and autonomy concepts. She contributes to multiple programs across Skunk Works and is at the forefront of the next generation of capabilities to augment our warfighters.

A passionate advocate for women in aviation and military veterans, Kasey is an active mentor and frequent speaker at industry events, universities and conferences. She is active in the Society of Women Engineers, Women in Aviation, the Ninety-Nines, American Corporate Partners and the Association of Women in Aviation Maintenance.

Recent recognition includes AMT (Aviation Maintenance Technology) Magazine’s 40 Under 40 award, and several Lockheed Martin honors, including the Rising Star Award and Recognized Technical Talent.

Class of 2010 – Instrumentation Computerized Controls and Robotics, Waco Campus

Danny Emmanuel is a dynamic young professional currently serving as a project manager at SCS Engineers, where he leads renewable natural gas projects that convert landfill waste into clean energy for communities. His career journey began at Texas State Technical College, where he earned a degree in Instrumentation Technology on a full-ride scholarship awarded by HOVENSA Oil Refinery. He continued his academic journey with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Florida International University and a degree in Natural Gas Engineering and Management from the University of Oklahoma.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Danny is dedicated to continuous growth and leadership development. He is actively engaged in several organizations, including the Southern Gas Association’s Multi-Generational Leadership Committee, Young Pipeline Professionals USA, DiscoverE – Future City Competition, the Project Management Institute, and the National Society of Black Engineers. His involvement demonstrates a strong commitment to collaboration, mentorship and advancing innovation within the industry.

Danny ran for a Senate seat for the 32nd Legislature of the United States Virgin Islands, driven by a strong desire to create meaningful change in his home district. Whether managing complex projects or contributing to his community, Danny brings authenticity, dedication and a forward-thinking mindset to every endeavor. Being recognized as a TSTC Trailblazer is a testament to his impact so far and the promise of what’s yet to come.

Class of 1985 – Computer Maintenance Technology, Harlingen Campus

From humble beginnings in Granjeno, one of the oldest villages in Texas, Daniel Garza II grew up in an agricultural migrant working family in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran and native Texan, he was the first in his family to attend college, using his GI Bill to graduate from Texas State Technical College in 1985 with a degree in Computer Maintenance Technology.

Daniel went on to build a 34-year career at 3M, advancing through multiple divisions and senior leadership roles. He retired as plant engineering manager of the Brownwood site, one of the company’s world-class facilities. Along the way, he guided 16 manufacturing plants through ISO 9000 certification, negotiated contracts that saved millions in energy costs, and led groundbreaking technical projects. His achievements earned him 3M’s prestigious Pyramid of Excellence Award and the Corporate Community Volunteer Award.

Deeply committed to education, Daniel has been a steadfast supporter of TSTC for decades. He has served on advisory boards, delivered commencement addresses, and helped secure more than $475,000 in scholarships, equipment, and workforce development grants. His efforts also brought advanced training programs, such as the Industrial Systems Training Program with SACA, to TSTC’s Brownwood campus.

Married to his high school sweetheart, Valerie, for 46 years, Daniel is a devoted husband, father of three, and grandfather of four. Through his professional accomplishments, community service, and ministry, he continues to embody perseverance, leadership, and the belief that investing in others is the greatest legacy.

Classes of 1989 and 1990 – Electronic Servicing Technology and Drafting and Design Technology, Sweetwater Campus

Annie Guevara is currently part of the staff at the University of Texas at Austin, where she is a senior CAD (computer-aided design) specialist. In addition to UT, she works on projects within her own company, AMG Designs, where she designs and oversees the completion of new kitchens, home offices and remodeled bathrooms. Custom kitchen design is her specialty; however, her career has led her to work in patent design, electrical transformer design, packaging design and high-end cabinet design.

Her career has taken her from the NRG Stadium in Houston to working on hundreds of kitchens all over Texas, even as far away as Seattle, Washington. She’s had the opportunity to teach design at Sul Ross State University. She taught students in AutoCAD, lectured about design and printed students’ designs using a 3D printer. She graduated from San Angelo Central High, then attended Texas State Technical College in Sweetwater. Annie was one of the first few women at the Sweetwater campus to earn both an associate degree in Drafting and Design Technology as well as an associate degree in Electronic Servicing Technology.

Annie is also an accomplished artist, having illustrated two children’s books. In 2018 she held a one-woman art show featuring her ink paintings and sketches. She was born in Houston, and she and her family later moved to San Angelo. She credits her daughter, Michelle Aussenac, for giving her both the strength and wisdom to have the career that she has.

Class of 2003 – Biomedical Equipment Technology, Waco Campus

Heather Hebert serves as clinical engineering region director for CommonSpirit Health’s south region, which consists of 34 hospitals across six states: Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee and Texas. Her responsibilities include the entire scope of medical equipment service on over 136,252 medical devices valued at more than $1.46 billion.

Heather graduated from TSTC in 2003 and started work immediately as a biomedical equipment technician specializing in support of imaging modalities. She became a people leader in 2010 and obtained the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation’s Certified Healthcare Technology Manager certification in 2016.

Heather says people are her passion and she strives to ensure that each of the managers, technicians and administrative support members on her team are taken care of to the best of her ability. She serves in a faith-based health care organization because she believes wholeheartedly in its mission.

Ensuring that CommonSpirit Health’s caregivers, clinicians and physicians have safe, reliable medical equipment available for their patients is Heather’s number one priority. She works hard to ensure that she and her team are good stewards of medical equipment by providing service strategies that maximize equipment life cycles and promote sound fiscal controls. Her goal is to promote a work environment where her team is empowered to complete their important work with the skills, support and resources needed to do so.

Heather and her husband, Shaun, have been married for over 15 years and have four children. They love to travel and attend their children’s various events and activities.

Class of 2010 – Emergency Medical Services, Abilene Campus

Will Hendon is a dedicated HealthCare leader. Through his life and work experiences, he has developed a leadership style that empowers and influences. His ability to inspire and motivate those around him ultimately drives others to a higher level of achievement.

Prior to EMS, Will served for over a decade in corrections. During this time, he advanced into senior leadership, where he grew his ability to influence and develop people. It was during this demanding period of his life that he would be forged into the leader he was destined to be. Despite a career change, he continues to remain in contact with and be mentored by those who helped mold him into the leader he is today.

After more than ten years in corrections, a new life opportunity presented itself. While on a drive back to his home, Will saw an ambulance approaching him and suddenly thought, “I’m going to do that”. After two years of hard work and dedication, he graduated as a licensed paramedic and started walking a new career path. However, this was not only a new career path but a new avenue to impact and change lives. Living in the service of those who serve their community would be a defining time in his life.

Success is the outcome of perseverance and persistence, and this is a common theme throughout Will’s life. After a promotion to Regional Director of several large metropolitan EMS systems, Will continues to empower and touch lives with his leadership. His abilities and talent have changed the atmosphere and culture of the organization he serves. He has taken what was once a struggling and largely perceived as failing service and transformed it into the industry standard for high-performance EMS. The culture shift and change in the organization can be attributed to his “servant” style leadership.

Since the age of fourteen, when he became a licensed minister, he has had a passion for impacting people through public speaking. Often speaking of letting your work do the talking. He engages his employees and friends through his hard work, dedication to his craft, and passion. He uses these principles to inspire those around them to greater achievement and resolve, in spite of overwhelming obstacles.

Will is a devoted husband and father. He is dedicated to his lovely wife, Erin. Their marriage has blossomed into a loving and growing family. Together, they have 4 wonderful children who are active in school and the community. They enjoy time together in pursuit of raising a kingdom family.

Class of 2006, Industrial Electrical Technician, Marshall Campus

Mathew Joseph is president and owner of C3 Industrial Technologies, a family-owned CNC (computer numerical control) machine repair company based in Kilgore, Texas. A graduate of Texas State Technical College, Mathew began his career in industrial maintenance and quickly earned a reputation for his expertise in troubleshooting and precision repair. In 2016, alongside his wife, Lee’ah, he founded C3 with a mission to provide high-quality, dependable service to manufacturers across East Texas and surrounding regions.

Under his leadership, C3 has grown into a trusted partner for clients throughout Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. With over 30 years of combined experience, the C3 team now completes hundreds of service calls each year, working on a wide range of CNC machines and control systems including Fanuc, Heidenhain, Haas, Mazak, Kuraki, Bridgeport and many others.

Mathew is a hands-on leader known for his work ethic, technical knowledge and focus on building long-term customer relationships. He takes pride in developing his team and creating opportunities for growth within the skilled trades. He is passionate about promoting vocational education and often speaks to students about the importance of hands-on careers in manufacturing and repair.

Outside of work, Mathew is a proud husband and father to three boys — Caleb, Carter and Cohen, the inspiration behind the company’s name. Whether he’s in the shop, on the road or on the sidelines at a game, Mathew brings energy, drive and a deep respect for hard work to everything he does.

Class of 1980 – Drafting and Design Technology, Waco Campus

A native of Troup, Texas, and longtime resident of Cherokee County, Keith Lindsey has built a career defined by innovation and perseverance. A graduate of Troup High School, he was the first in his family to attend all 12 years in Troup before continuing his education with an associate degree in Physical Fitness from Tyler Junior College (1979) and a second associate degree in DDT/MET from Texas State Technical College (1981). He later earned a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Texas at Tyler in 1989.

Keith’s professional journey began as a designer with Hughes Tool Company and led to nearly two decades as a medical device product design engineer with Baxter Laboratories, Johnson & Johnson, STERIS, and Cardinal Health. His inventive spirit and problem-solving skills have earned him 13 U.S. patents, including nine medical device utility patents that continue to impact the health care industry today.

From 2001 to 2018, Keith served as managing operations partner with Tally-Ho Plastics and Stencor Company before founding True West Services, a product development consulting firm, in 2019. His entrepreneurial drive continued with the launch of AirBoss Outdoors in 2020, where he designs, develops and markets outdoor lifestyle products. In 2023 Keith’s work was nationally recognized when he appeared as a Shark Tank entrepreneur.

Married to his wife, Barbara, for 38 years, Keith is a proud father to his daughter, Kala, and honors the memory of his late son, Gabe, a U.S. Army veteran.

Class of 2003 – Computer Programming Technology, Waco Campus

Chad Martin is vice president of Product Engineering – Integrated Technologies at Neighborly, the world’s largest home services franchisor. With a career spanning multiple industries, he brings a diverse background in technology leadership and over 20 years of experience in franchising, where he has shaped product and engineering strategies for leading fitness and home service brands.

Chad is a dedicated advocate for technical education and has developed a successful internship program at Neighborly that actively partners with TSTC to identify and recruit emerging talent. His leadership has opened doors for many TSTC graduates, guiding them into full-time roles across the companies he’s served and helping launch successful careers in technology and engineering.

Chad has been an active member of the TSTC Computer Programming Technology advisory committee for over 10 years and, as its current chairman, helps guide curriculum development to keep pace with evolving industry standards. He has frequently volunteered his time to judge programming competitions, conduct mock interviews, and deliver informational talks to TSTC students. He also has engaged with employers to promote the value of hiring TSTC graduates, helping build strong bridges between education and industry.

Through his leadership and outreach, Chad continues to open career pathways for students, helping them turn potential into opportunity.

Class of 2014 – Air Traffic Control, Waco Campus

Michael Nelson is a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and a proud TSTC graduate. In July 2025 he was honored with the Trailblazer Award during TSTC’s 60th Anniversary celebration, a recognition that holds deep meaning for him as both a professional and a person.

Michael’s journey into air traffic control began in 2012 when he was accepted into TSTC’s FAA-approved Air Traffic Management program. With the guidance and encouragement of his dedicated instructors, he not only excelled academically — earning a 3.50 GPA — but also received multiple scholarships and awards that supported his path forward.

After graduating in 2014, Michael was selected to attend the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, where he completed intensive training before earning a permanent placement at an Air Route Traffic Control Center. He went on to achieve full CPC certification and has since built a reputation for his professionalism, being calm under pressure, and deep commitment to safety within the National Airspace System. He has also received multiple commendations for his professionalism and leadership throughout his FAA career.

Outside of work, Michael gives back by mentoring local students and volunteering at FAA Recruiting Days — something he’s proud to do as someone who once stood in their shoes.

For Michael, earning his degree from TSTC wasn’t just the start of a career, it was the foundation of who he is today. He brings his best self to the center every day, knowing he’s part of something much bigger than himself.

Class of 1997 – Laser Electro-Optics, Waco Campus

As a proud graduate of Texas State Technical College’s Waco campus, Mike Sedillo credits his laser electro-optics education as the springboard that launched his career and opened doors to opportunities he never imagined. He said TSTC gave him not only technical expertise, but also the confidence and foundation to solve problems, lead teams and thrive in a competitive industry.

From his early work applying laser optics at Hughes Aircraft and Raytheon on defense programs, to contributing as a manufacturing engineer on Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner, and later advancing into leadership roles at Intel and McAfee driving cybersecurity innovation, Mike has remained committed to innovation and transformation. Today, as a business operations leader at Intuit, he leads initiatives that leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning and customer insights to enhance digital experiences, optimize operations and deliver strategic outcomes for millions across the Intuit portfolio. These efforts have significantly improved customer satisfaction and fueled organizational growth.

Beyond his professional milestones, including the International Team Excellence Finalist Award at the ASQ World Conference, Mike is most proud of mentoring future engineers and giving back to TSTC. This has included proposing the McAfee/TSTC Support Pilot program, initiating donations for laser optics tooling and continually advocating for TSTC across industries.

Mike said for him TSTC was more than a school — it was the launchpad that transformed his aspirations into reality. He hopes his journey inspires students to see that with dedication, resilience and a willingness to embrace change, they too can blaze new trails in technology and beyond.

Class of 1975 – Electrical Power Technology, Waco Campus

Dr. Elton Stuckly Jr. is a 1975 graduate of the Electrical Power Technology program at Texas State Technical Institute (now Texas State Technical College). After graduation, he worked in industry for 12 years as a senior electrical designer and technician before returning to his alma mater to teach in the program he graduated from. As an instructor, he took pride in helping all students. He received the Haliburton Award for Excellence in Teaching five years in a row.

In addition to teaching, during his 33 years with the college, Dr. Stuckly held numerous other positions including department chair, division director, vice president of instruction, president, and executive vice chancellor. He loved every position but enjoyed teaching the most. As an administrator, he truly cared for all of the TSTC employees.

Also, Dr. Stuckly has a strong commitment to “lifelong learning.” During his tenure at TSTC, he continued his education and completed advanced degrees, including his doctorate. However, looking back at his career, the degree from TSTI meant the most. It provided the means to move forward with a great-paying job, have a family and live the American Dream.

Dr. Stuckly retired in March 2020 and continues to help students who have an interest in attending TSTC. He also enjoys traveling and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Class of 2007 – HVAC Technology, Waco Campus

Dustin Uptmore was born in Waco and now lives with his wife and children in China Spring, Texas. He is a proud graduate of Texas State Technical College, where he earned an associate degree through the HVAC program — an education that laid the foundation for his career.

Dustin has been with Capstone Mechanical for over 18 years, starting as a service helper. Through hard work and dedication, he has advanced through roles including service technician, area service manager, service manager, and VP of service operations. Today he serves as general manager, leading his team with a focus on excellence, growth and customer service.

Dustin has remained actively involved in the HVAC industry and education, serving several years on the TSTC HVAC advisory board, including time as board president. He also holds multiple professional licenses and endorsements.

In addition to his work in the HVAC field, Dustin serves as president of his local community water company, where he is proud to help support the needs of the area and ensure responsible resource management.

Dustin’s career journey has been driven by a passion for the trades, a commitment to leadership, and a desire to give back to the community that shaped him.

Class of 1982 – Electrical Power Technology, Waco Campus

Ron Widup has over 40 years of technical leadership and hands-on experience in the electrical services industry. Beginning his career in 1982 as a field service technician, he rose through every level of responsibility to become CEO of Shermco Industries. Today he serves as senior advisor of technical services and vice chairman of the board.

Throughout his career, Ron has been a driving force in advancing electrical safety, reliability, testing and maintenance. His active work with regulatory and standards organizations has positioned him as a recognized authority, shaping the future of electrical safety practices and system reliability across the industry.

Ron’s career at Shermco began in 1983 in the Engineering Services Division. His technical expertise and leadership ability propelled him from technician to CEO. Under his leadership, Shermco set new benchmarks for service quality and customer dedication, earning a reputation as a leader in electrical services.

In addition to his role at Shermco, Ron was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in 2020 to the TSTC Board of Regents. Since December 2024 he has served as chairman, helping guide TSTC in its mission to strengthen Texas business and industry by developing a highly skilled workforce.