Wiring his way to success
South Texas College student Edward Arreola knows what it takes to make things work. Arreola, a McAllen resident studying electrical systems, loves to put things together and is interested in tools and technologies. He was recently recognized for his academic achievement with a $2,000 Grainger “Tools for Tomorrow”SMscholarship to help support him in his studies and his future career.
“I am grateful for Grainger’s generous contribution that will help further my career,” said Arreola. “This scholarship provides me an opportunity to focus on my academic goals, and the tool package included will benefit me tremendously in the future. I am very happy I chose to take classes at STC because it has given me the chance to enter a profession where I will always be needed and one that is very rewarding.”
Arreola, who is pursuing an Electrician Assistant Certificate, was nominated for the scholarship by the college’s faculty because of his commitment his studies. He was one of 35 technical students selected from across the nation to receive the award, which also comes with a Westward® tool package from Grainger to help him in his future career.
“Students like Edward represent the best and brightest of the future of skilled labor,” said Mario Reyna, STC division dean of business and technology. “Texas employers are in critical need of highly skilled workers with an understanding of today’s tools, technologies and processes, and at STC, we believe in providing students with the hands-on training and skills to help them thrive in their chosen career field. We know that receiving this award is just the first of many other successes in store for Edward.”
Arreola grew up in Wellington, Texas, and he moved to the Valley a few years ago to pursue his education at STC. He says that taking classes at the college has not only provided him with the knowledge to adequately install and maintain electrical systems, but it has also prepared him to deal with any type of situation that may arise once he is out in the field.
“I’m fortunate to have been able to gain hands-on experience in installing, testing and maintaining electrical systems, and now I am ready to use these skills to land a great job in the workforce,” he said. “Getting an education or acquiring a skill that is in great need is important because a person can’t get a good job anymore with just a high school diploma. I am looking forward to all of the opportunities out there for me once I graduate, and I couldn’t be happier at the way things have turned out.”
What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
My uncle Agustin told me that my education should come before anything else because getting a degree is what is going to take me far in life. He always reminds me how important going to school is, and how I need to set goals for myself to ensure my future success. Now that I am about to graduate, I realize how right he is, and I hope to make him proud once I earn my certificate.
What is your biggest dream in life?
I just want to be happy and have a fulfilling job that I enjoy. I know that Texas employers are in critical need of highly skilled workers with an understanding of today’s electrical systems, and I can’t wait to fill the void in the workforce.