Like father, like son: TSTC Precision Machining Technology student inspired by father’s machinist career

(HARLINGEN, Texas) - When Texas State Technical College student Michael Diaz was young, he was curious about what his father's job was at a manufacturing company.

"I remember going to my dad's work with some family when I was six years old," Diaz said. "I saw the production floor area and found it interesting. I learned that my dad and the other workers made different parts out of scrap metal. I knew that I wanted to do their job."

Diaz expanded his interest in manufacturing when he took some classes in high school. His sister, a TSTC graduate, told him that the college offered some manufacturing and engineering programs.

"I browsed TSTC's website and saw the Precision Machining Technology program," he said. "I enjoyed reading that I'll learn about different types of machining equipment and make parts. I'll learn about the job my dad did before he retired."

Now Diaz is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Precision Machining Technology at TSTC's Harlingen campus.

"Our instructor (Ricardo Limas) introduced us to some of the program's equipment to make parts for our assignments," he said. "I look forward to the other projects that I will do."

Limas said Diaz has learned to be consistent and manage his time well.

"I remind students that determination, good character and a positive attitude will help them improve their skills," Limas said.

Diaz said the program's lab sessions remind him of his childhood experiences at his father's former place of employment.

"Mr. Limas has shown us how to do different techniques when we create a part," the Brownsville resident said. "If we don't do an assignment correctly, he will show us how to improve it."

According to onetonline.org, CNC (computer numerical control) tool programmers earn an average of $62,160 per year in Texas, where the number of such jobs was projected to increase 47% from 2020 to 2030.

TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and a certificate of completion in Precision Machining Technology, as well as a certificate of completion in CNC Machine Operator, at its East Williamson County, Fort Bend County, Harlingen, Marshall, North Texas and Waco campuses.

Precision Machining Technology is one of nine programs at TSTC that have money-back guarantees. For more information, visit tstc.edu/mbg.

Registration continues for the spring semester at TSTC. To learn more, go to tstc.edu.

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