Shifting Gears For A New Career

Transcript

Let’s meet up with William who got his start in NASCAR as a former race engineer. William is now studying engineering at Chandler-Gilbert, and he’s gonna share his story about his journey, how he chose Chandler-Gilbert and the experiences he’s had so far. Okay William, you’ve got the green flag. Go for it.

– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I graduated Maryland High School, I decided to move to Charlotte, North Carolina, to pursue a career working for a NASCAR racing team. Eventually, I’d get hired by Front Row Motorsports, where I worked in numerous roles, such as a pit crew tire changer, a mechanic, and a tire specialist. Eventually I’d go on to work for Richard Petty Motorsports as a race engineer where I ended my racing career, but it was well before that moment that I knew education was gonna be my next best move. I chose Chandler-Gilbert Community College because of how friendly and enthusiastic their staff is and how quickly they work to get me into their engineering program. Remember, I came from a world of NASCAR where speed and efficiency are key. In just a short amount of time I’ve been at CGCC, I’ve had amazing experiences. The user friendly online student center makes signing up for classes, checking financial aid, and viewing academic progress a breeze. My favorite parts of attending CGCC are the various class formats that are offered such as live online, hybrid, fully online, or in person. At CGCC, the instructors not only care about their students, but they’re always working on ways to improve their instruction. One of my engineering instructors currently works full-time for an aerospace company and still takes the time to teach at CGCC. You cannot beat this. This type of connection is critical because students can learn real world problems that current industry engineers are facing. CGCC has taught me that education is more than just learning skills in a classroom, but that building relationships with fellow students and instructors are imperative to my success. I love that I can be myself with the inclusive environment that CGCC promotes, so I can focus on school and still have a fun, enjoyable experience whether on campus or online, all at an affordable rate. With CGCC, you’re having your cake and you’re eating it too. But enough about me, let’s send it back to Alex to hear more great success stories.

– William, what a cool story. Your experiences with NASCAR was an amazing first lap and your next ones will be even more exciting as you race towards your new career in engineering. Sounds like you’ve found your own pit crew at Chandler-Gilbert and the community of friends that will last a lifetime. Thanks again.