NCCC Success Story

Hometown
St. Louis, Mo.; currently working and living in Minneapolis, Minn.

Degree programs

• Associate in Occupational Studies in Computer Aided Drafting Technology, RIT/NTID, 2007
• Bachelor of Science in Architecture Technology, Rankin Technical College in St. Louis, Mo., 2010

Place of employment
Walter G. Anderson, Inc. Folding Carton Manufacturers

Job title and work responsibilities
Computer aided drafting operator and quality control technician

I work as a CAD operator with the design staff designing folding cartons for various customers in a large number of different industries — sporting goods, food, medical, etc. I also operate a cutting table and cut and create samples for customer approval before they place their final order. In addition, I work with the quality control department by going into the plant to inspect and test the cartons before they are shipped to our customers.

How my career relates to my degree from RIT/NTID
At RIT/NTID I got the hands-on training with CAD software and design that I currently am using at work. After getting my AOS degree, I transferred to Rankin Technical College to gain more in-depth CAD and design training with a focus on sustainable products and energy to preserve our natural resources. The skills and knowledge I had from learning CAD software at RIT/NTID helped me to quickly learn new software and design programs. Walter G. Anderson, Inc. employs a sustainable energy system in the manufacturing process by using recycled paperboard for cartons and using 100% wind power for energy to run the plant.

Advice
Once you are in the "real world" and realize how you are putting your skills to good use, that is when you realize how valuable your education is. Keep it up and you will see results.