Student Testimonials
Why students like the FAME program
Student Testimonials
DYLAN DIGANGI
2020 Graduate of Alexandria High School
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2022
FAME Student working at: Prince Metal Stampings as an automation technician
Why did you apply for FAME? “I went to a career coach at my high school to find out my options. I talked about wanting to go directly into the workforce. I didn’t want to go to college and then not have a job after graduation. Through FAME, I am getting an education while getting set up for a career. There is no doubt that I will have a job when I graduate.”
What do you like best about FAME? “I really like the work/school balance. We don’t just come to class and read a textbook. We go into the manufacturing environment and do at work what we learn in school. It’s really the best way to learn. Being with Mrs. Cianfione (instructor) and this cohort of students has been a great experience. We have built friendships and we help each other. We all want each other to succeed.”
JAKEB MINTZ
2017 Graduate of Pathways Academy
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2022
FAME Student working at: Eastman Chemical
Why did you choose to apply for FAME? “I was working at Prince Metal Stampings when my supervisor told me about FAME. I thought it sounded perfect for me since I was already in manufacturing and I was already in school full time. I knew I liked working in maintenance, and I knew I wanted to get an education. FAME was the perfect fit for me.”
What would you say if someone asked you about applying for FAME? “If you are interested in doing industrial work, if you like problem solving and if you like fixing things, FAME is for you. It’s a great program, and the schedule of working three days and going to school two days is so helpful. It’s a lot easier to succeed when you don’t have to constantly juggle a full load of work and school.”
IMAN VINCENT
2020 Graduate of Oxford High School
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2022
FAME Student working at: Bridgewater Interiors as a technician
Why did you choose to apply for FAME? “I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do for a career. I wanted to be an engineer but when I saw the requirements and the time commitment before going to work, I changed my mind. When I heard about FAME, I knew it was more of what I wanted to do. FAME will allow me to graduate and continue to work. I like that.”
What would you say if someone asked you about applying for FAME? “Do it. You’ll never know if this is something you can do unless you try it. You can go far in this program. This puts you on the fast track in advanced manufacturing. You will only get better from here.”
MASON JACKSON
2021 Graduate of Ranburne High School
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2023
FAME Student working at: Tape Craft in mechanical maintenance
You are in your first year of FAME training. Do you like it so far? “I really like it. The work is great at Tape Craft, and I learn something new every day on the job or at Gadsden State. I’m always busy, and I’m learning a lot.”
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the FAME program? “Stop thinking about it and just do it! It’s a good opportunity. This program allows you to go to school and work at the same time. I will graduate debt-free from Gadsden State, and I’ll graduate and immediately have a good-paying job.”
DESTINY BALL
2021 Graduate of Munford High School
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2023
FAME Student working at: Kronospan LLC as an electrical and mechanical trainee
Why did you choose to apply for FAME? “I chose FAME because I knew it would lead me to a lucrative career. I also wanted to break the mold of what is stereotypically a maintenance technician. Women can work in manufacturing. Women can be engineers. Diversity is a good thing.”
What do you like best about the FAME program? “I love it because we are learning and going to work. I’ve met so many different people who are teaching me not only mechanical and technical skills but also soft skills. I’m learning to be a people person. I’m learning how to professionally present myself. Without this program, I’d be lost. I had no idea what I was going to do after high school graduation but now I’m on a great career path.”
JACOB JONES
2021 Graduate of Collinsville High School
Expected FAME Graduation: Spring 2023
FAME Student working: Koch Foods as an electrician
As a first-year FAME student, are you enjoying the program so far? “I really like it. Everyone is so respectful and helpful at Gadsden State and at Koch Foods. It’s such a good program to be a part of, and it’s great that I’m getting to learn and work at the same time.”
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the FAME program? “Go ahead and apply as soon as you can. You learn so much at Gadsden State and you’re able to take what you learn to your job. Plus, you get a degree in just two years and you can start your career immediately after graduation.”