Miguel Arraga from St. Joseph, MO, has been selected as North Central Missouri College’s Outstanding Student for January. Miguel is currently pursuing an associate’s degree in industrial technology at NCMC’s Savannah Campus and is set to graduate this May. He plans to further his education at Northwest Missouri State University, aiming for a pre-engineering degree to eventually fulfill his dream of becoming an engineer.
Miguel participates in the Earn & Learn internship partnership between NCMC and Altec Industries, Inc. This program allows him to work as a paid intern at Altec Industries, Inc. while attending NCMC. During his internship at Altec Industries, Inc., Miguel has gained practical experience with lasers, plasma cutters, CNC machining, robots, and other industrial technology tools. Reflecting on his experience, Miguel said, “It’s nice to work with a variety of technologies all at once. I’ve learned a lot, and everyone I’ve met there has been amazing.” Upon completing his internship and graduating, Miguel has the opportunity to secure a full-time position at Altec Industries, Inc. His bilingual skills have also been an asset during his internship.
Rick Sharp, NCMC’s Industrial Technology Instructor, emphasized the impact of the Earn & Learn partnership: “The Earn & Learn partnership is a game-changer for our students. We maintain regular communication with Altec about our students’ progress, ensuring they stay on the right track. This partnership not only offers hands-on experience but also guides us in better preparing our students for the workforce. It’s a win-win situation that helps us understand industry needs and equips our students with the necessary skills.”
NCMC’s industrial technology program features a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in engineering and related fields. Miguel, originally from Venezuela, moved to the United States five years ago and found NCMC to be an ideal fit for his educational journey. The college’s proximity to his home, affordability, and the industrial technology program played key roles in his decision to attend NCMC. “I started at NCMC because it offered the classes I wanted and the options I needed. Everyone is nice and helpful,” Miguel shared. His favorite classes, welding, and robotics, have been pivotal in shaping his career goals. “Rick Sharp’s classes are my favorites. He is a great instructor, and I’ve learned a lot. He has supported me and guided me in my opportunities,” Miguel added.
He continued, “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in life, and even when I started college, I was still uncertain. However, after meeting my instructors, starting classes, and the internship, I knew industrial technology and engineering were what I wanted to pursue. NCMC helped me make that decision.”
Rick Sharp remarked, “Miguel is a fantastic student and a true success story. He puts in 100% effort, and there’s never any doubt about his commitment. I’m thrilled about his success and look forward to seeing all that he will achieve, as well as the growth of the partnership with Altec through future NCMC students.”
Each month, a faculty or staff member nominates a student to be recognized as an Outstanding Student for their dedication to educational success, positive attitude towards learning, and hard work in their chosen field and activities.
To learn more about NCMC or the Earn & Learn partnership, visit NCMC’s website or contact the Savannah Campus at (816) 324-8001.
Photo: Miguel Arraga