Posted:
January 13, 2023“Education is important for learning about the world. The world needs critical thinkers to solve problems, and with a good education, you will also have better career opportunities.”
Continuous Training for Career Opportunities
Century College student Maverick Waltz is an adult learner who is constantly challenging himself, personally and professionally, and he enjoys learning to stay informed about what is happening in the larger world.
He’s worked in the construction industry as a pipefitter, and received training at South Central in Mankato, and St. Paul College, where he received his pipefitting diploma. He then spent three years in night school at his union hall while working full time during the day.
Century College and STEM
“I was looking for a good, affordable college to attend before returning to school and continuing on for my four-year degree. Century College has good STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) classes–-plus, I liked the location and atmosphere,” Maverick says.
He’s currently fine-tuning his skills and taking classes in Additive and Digital Manufacturing (ADM) while working on his Associate’s degree. Focusing on a new career direction can be challenging, but there are also learning opportunities at Century College where using creativity and acquiring new skills is fun.
Randy Jasken, Century College ADM Program Director notes, “The shift into digital technology has continued at a feverish pace. Maverick a prime example of how students can broaden their skills, boost their resumes, and have fun all at the same time. These are skills that will follow Maverick wherever he goes. I see great potential in him, and there are many opportunities in his desired field with additive and digital manufacturing. He could discover or use new biofriendly or renewable 3D printed materials, or he could use his CAD skills to create innovative rooftop garden designs. The possibilities are endless!”
Other Century College Resources and Opportunities
Working full-time while taking classes isn’t easy, but Maverick stays focused and takes advantage of the College’s support services and Student Life opportunities. “I’ve used the Writing and Math Centers on occasion,” he notes. “I’ve also gone on a ‘Ducks in the Wild’ trip to Gooseberry Falls with other Century students. It was inexpensive and a great opportunity to meet new people.”
Future Plans
Maverick is passionate about the outdoors and volunteers with various groups to monitor local environmental groups, such as the Wetland Health Evaluation program.
Although he enjoys time outdoors, Maverick loves city environments as well, and plans to transfer to the University of Minnesota when he graduates. He’s interested in environmental design, resource management, landscape architecture and city planning.
With his varied skills and interests, the future is wide open for him. Maverick knows that getting his four-year degree means that he won’t have to go to a trade school each time he wants to upgrade his skills. Whichever direction he chooses, he’s getting a good foundation at Century College.
“I’ve gotten a lot of support here, especially from ADM faculty member Randy Jasken. I’m so glad I chose Century College.”
Learn More about Century College:
- Admissions
- Academic Support
- Additive and Digital Manufacturing (ADM)
- Digital Fabrication Lab
- Programs and Degrees
- Transfer
*NOTE: Starting Fall 2023, ECAD 1025 will be replaced by 2 courses; ADM 1025 Digital Manufacturing - Intro to design and ADM 1030 Digital Manufacturing – Fab Lab. (While keeping the same focus of “how to make almost anything”, these courses will expand into some newer technologies and are in an accelerated 8-week format.
