With a passion for electronics and curiosity rooted in Gustavo Chavez’s childhood, the Automation Training Program at Trinity Valley Community College has opened doors to advanced skills and career possibilities he never thought possible.
“My time in this program has been great,” Chavez expressed. “Actually, I wish I would have had this when I was younger.”
Growing up, he spent hours tinkering with computers— disassembling and reassembling them, experimenting with operating systems, and diving into basic components like RAM. But it wasn’t until joining the Automation Training Program that he truly began to understand the potential of those early interests.
Automation wasn’t his initial focus. His journey began with a practical goal: learning how to fix his air conditioner. He visited TVCC seeking an HVAC course but found himself exploring a variety of programs instead.
“Honestly, I didn’t know what automation was at first,” he added. “But since I’ve always liked electronics, I thought, ‘Why not?’ It’s been challenging and intimidating at times, but if you like it, you’ll do your best—and I really enjoy it so far.”
Like many TVCC students, he balances a fulltime job at Kroger in Palestine, family commitments, and personal responsibilities while pursuing his education. Thanks to the support and flexibility of his instructor, Ronn Herod, he’s been able to successfully manage it all.
“My instructor works with my schedule, and that feels great,” Chavez said. “Even though I can’t always be on the Athens campus, he makes sure I have access to what I need. The videos he creates for online lessons are a lifesaver. I can revisit them as many times as I need to understand something.”
This flexibility and personalized support have not only eased the stress of balancing commitments but also enhanced his learning experience. With each class, he grows more confident in his abilities and excited about the possibilities ahead. Whether it’s robotics, electronics, or programming, the skills he’s acquiring in the Automation Training Program are paving the way for new opportunities.
“I’ve learned so much, and I know there’s still so much more to discover,” Chavez shared. “What I’ve learned so far about automation training is incredible. From programming to working with PLCs (programmable logic controllers), it’s been eye-opening. If I’d had this knowledge back then, I could have accomplished so much more.”
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