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Terra Success Stories

SUCCESS STORY -
Erika Beckman

Erika Beckman believes family and friends are the most important influences in her life. Terra Community College runs a close third.

Being a wife and mother of two young girls takes much of her attention, but Erika is also proud of working as a Computer- Aided Design instructor at The Tech Center. And it was Terra that helped open the door to that career.

After graduating from Seneca East High School and Sentinel Career Center in 1995, Erika enrolled at Terra. She earned an Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering and CAD/CAM just two years later.

After seven years of working in various capacities at Atlas Crankshaft (which later was bought by Thyssen Krupp), she accepted a position as CAD instructor at The Tech Center. She had already honed her teaching skills while serving as an adjunct faculty member at Terra, but she went back to school to earn a Bachelor of Science from Bowling Green State University, a teaching certificate and Master of Education from the University of Toledo, and a principal’s license from the University of Findlay.

"Terra was a huge part of my life, and not only as a student," Erika said. "As a student, I had great instructors who were always willing to help. It also helps to have great classmates to help answer questions and study.

"I have toured several four-year colleges and Terra has better equipment than they have. At Terra, you get hands-on, personalized education. As far as the CAD software, Terra keeps current with what industry uses. Terra doesn't offer the 'theory' classes. They give you the information you need for the real world."

Erika is a professional member of SkillsUSA, a student organization for career-technical students. Last year was The Tech Center’s first year competing in SkillsUSA. She took two teams to the state competition; one won gold and moved on to the national competition in Kansas City. They placed seventh in the nation./span>

"My biggest accomplishment as a teacher truly is my students," she said. "I have had so many wonderful young ladies and gentlemen go through my program. I am very proud of who they are and what they have accomplished or will accomplish."

She has lots of advice for those pursuing education and a career.

"Take advantage of your time at Terra, ask questions and learn as much as you can," Erika said. Have initiative and read through the course book. Set goals for yourself and do not let anything get in the way. Everyone has personal issues; you have to make education a priority.