CTE Graduate Profile

CAREER PATH

Jennifer Perez

After graduating high school, I went on to pursue a degree at NIU. After attending the internship fairs my sophomore year, I landed a co-op with UTC Aerospace Systems (now called Collins Aerospace). I completed a BSME at Northern Illinois University and went on to accept a full-time position with Collins Aerospace.

EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS NEEDED FOR THIS CAREER

HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED

Morton West High School Berwyn, Illinois – Cook County

CAD skills, along with a degree in the field.

CTE DEPARTMENT/CLASSES ENROLLED IN DURING HIGH SCHOOL

Introduction to Engineering Design

ADVICE TO HIGH SCHOOL CTE STUDENTS

CURRENT JOB TITLE

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Don’t give up, the journey has just begun, ask for help and listen to those who have advice to offer. .

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT

Collins Aerospace Rockford, Illinois

CAREER PATHWAY

HOW HAS CTE MADE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE/CAREER?

Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology and Trades

Taking that initial class in high school is what helped me choose Mechanical Engineering. Before taking that class, I had never considered engineering as a career path. It made all the difference in placing me where I am today.