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HARLINGEN — Gissela Hernandez Guzman remembers a time in her youth when her father owned a successful automotive shop. His interest in repairing cars was the first spark that would lead his daughter to an education at Texas State Technical College.
“It made me want to learn more about the automotive field,” he said. “I thought it would be great to be the first woman and first generation college student in my family to enter a career that is known to be dominated by men. I am determined to show that women are amazing leaders in any field.
Now Hernandez Guzman, of San Benito, is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology.
The second-semester student said his knowledge and skills improved.
“The hands-on training I have learned up to this point has been in areas such as steering and suspension, electrical, HVAC and brake systems, engine maintenance, two-post lifting and align the wheel,” he said. “The instructors taught me the importance of completing daily maintenance checkups. Failure to do so may cause damage to your vehicle. “
Hernandez Guzman said his motivation is to prove that he can be a good automotive technician.
“As long as you have the will to succeed, anything is possible,” he said. “I proved my worth.”
He credits his knowledge to TSTC instructors.
“The teachers help us every step of the way, including our struggles,” he said. “For example, I had problems setting the timing chains correctly in the Automotive Engine Repair course. The intake and exhaust valves each have a specific timing that they must meet, and the chain must align with the timing sprocket. They helped me straighten that out.”
Hernandez Guzman said he is looking forward to the rest of his education.
“I’m ready to learn what the rest of the program has to teach me to be a skilled technician,” he said.
Miguel Zoleta, TSTC’s Automotive Technology program director, said Hernandez Guzman’s interest in the automotive industry is commendable.
“Gissela shows initiative, purpose, and wants to improve her capabilities as she progresses to become a technician.”
Paul Cavazos, service manager at Boggus Automotive Group, said women have made a big impact at the company.
“Many women our company hires are skilled automotive technicians or service writers who make a lasting impression on our customers,” she said. “TSTC plays a big role in producing skilled automotive technicians. I want to see more women enter this field because their skill level is amazing.”
Jacob Boggus, general manager of Boggus Automotive Group, said the company is part of the driving change.
“The invaluable contributions of our trailblazing women have pushed our dealership to new heights in service, sales and innovation,” she said. “We are proud to cultivate a diverse and inclusive environment where the future of the automotive industry is shaped by the collective light of all our team members. As we continue to expand, we remain steadfast in our commitment to nurture the success of women in the field and rewrite the narrative of the automotive world.
The demand for qualified automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow in Texas in the next few years. According to onetonline.org, Texas employs more than 55,000 of these technicians around the state, and that number is projected to increase to 61,000 by 2030. The average annual salary for a technician in the state is the $46,680.
TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology and an Automotive Technician certificate of completion at the Harlingen, Sweetwater and Waco campuses. Several other certificates, including Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair, Chrysler Specialization and Tesla START Technician, as well as a Basic Automotive occupational skills achievement award, are also available depending on campus location.
For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.