Sixteen students from Oklahoma State University’s College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT) Student Council (STUCO) visited the Aeronautical Center as part of an inaugural program that combines mentoring and volunteering. The CEAT STUCO initiated a program this year to introduce students to local employers in the state, providing students an opportunity to team up with these local employers, while giving back to the community. On Saturday, March 2nd, the students visited the MMAC for lunch and networked with eight volunteer FAA team members from across the MMAC – Eli Velazquez (AJW-1240), Kathy Ontko (AJW-1723), Christine Huckleberry (AJW-1421), Daniel Ward (AMP-400), Jerod Goodman (AMP-400), Michael Bianchi (AJF-2), Jeff Westlake (AHF-S210) and Kevin O’Connor (AMC-002).

The students shared their interests and discussed the engineering disciplines they are studying. The FAA team members shared information about their careers and why they enjoy working at the FAA, offering general advice to these soon-to-be graduates. Here are some personal comments from FAA employees who provided insight to the students:

Eli Velasquez, Manager UAS Operations Team – "When joining the technical workforce, don’t shy away from introducing new innovative ideas that may challenge the status quo. A good employer will champion innovative thinking to solve complex problems. Additionally, it’s okay to say, "I don’t know," and never pretend to know it all. Acknowledging that you don’t know is a sign of honesty and intellectual humility."

Kathy Ontko, C3 Project Engineer, NAS Enterprise Data Communications Subteam – "After working 20 years at a job I loved, my first "life-long career" ended when the workplace was closed. I never planned on that, but things can and do happen. So, even when you are feeling secure and happy where you are, be flexible and ready to learn new things, and always have a Plan B in the back of your mind. It usually turns out to be good. My second "life-long career" has been another 20 years in a great job as a contractor at the FAA."

Jeffrey Westlake, Human Resources Specialist, AC Employment Services Branch – "Explore all opportunities from federal agencies and the private sector to find the right fit for your goals and work-life balance."

Christine Huckleberry, Hardware Engineering Manager, NAS Defense Programs – "This was a fantastic opportunity to let students know the various careers and opportunities that are available to them here at the MMAC. The advice I offered to students was to be curious, ask questions, ask for help, and HUSTLE!"

Following the lunch at the MMAC Visitor’s Center, the students and some of the FAA team members joined together to volunteer at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma in the afternoon. Working side by side with the students provided additional opportunities for networking and mentoring among the group. Special thanks to all FAA team members who volunteered for this noteworthy event. This is just another example of how MMAC employees continue to positively impact the community!