Gov. Herbert Visits the Bridgerland Technical College Brigham City Branch Campus

Bridgerland Technical College, in coordination with the Box Elder School District, had the pleasure of welcoming Governor Gary Herbert to our Brigham City Branch Campus on Tuesday, August 15, 2017. The visit included a tour of the Bridgerland Technical College early morning High School AM STEM Academy.

Governor Herbert met with a number of students who had excelled in completed the Automated Manufacturing program. One of these students, Mike Turner was there to shake hands with the Governor. His dedication and hard work had some of the top integration companies in Utah trying to hire him ever before he had finished his certificate. Mike says, “Early on, when I started the program at Bridgerland, Autoliv was looking for Automation Technician interns. I was fortunate enough to be able to get that job, working weekends at Autoliv and going to school during the week. The internship provided me an opportunity to be able to apply what I was learning in a real-world environment. Later, near the end of my program at Bridgerland, I participated in our department’s Senior Capstone Project. I designed and completed a project using everyday equipment that is used in this field. I was fortunate enough to be approached by Setpoint Systems, Inc. from Ogden with a job offer where I am now working as a Jr. Controls Engineer. Being able to show off my skill set to potential employers was immeasurable.”

Vice President John Davidson was also on hand to explain the program in detail and said, “Locally, the use of robots within the manufacturing industry is rapidly increasing and this implementation is replacing low-skilled workers; however, new jobs are being created for technicians, who are highly trained, to maintain and program the robots. At the AM STEM Academy, high school students will learn the skills and knowledge needed to find employment as a technician. We teach students the anatomy of an industrial robot and give them an overview of the manufacturing process. This prepares them to critically think about the best solutions to technical issues and needs within the workforce.”

Bridgerland Technical College student Emma Larson was also present to shake the Governor’s hand. Emma gave the valedictory address during graduation commencement at Mountain Crest High School and then started the AM STEM Academy that summer. She completed the program shortly after returning from missionary service for the LDS church.

“Thanks to this certificate, I have been able to gain employment at a STEM outreach program for kids. It has also allowed me to realize my passions and continue my education in Mechanical Engineering.”