Engineering a Future

Tyler Duckworth is on a path, combining his skills for Tool and Die with engineering studies, and it’s already setting him apart.  Tyler is not only a full-time apprentice at Hess Industries but also a student at North Central State College (NCSC), balancing work and school with impressive determination.

While attending Pioneer Career and Technical Center, he took advantage of the College Credit Plus (CCP) program, earning college credits through NCSC in courses.  “I did about four CCP classes in high school,” Tyler shares.  “Two counted toward my two-year engineering degree, and the other two were part of the journeyman’s program.  I wanted to challenge myself in high school and get ahead.”

While attending CCP classes, Tyler had an opportunity to tour local businesses.  After visiting several facilities, Tyler found a great fit at Hess.  “I went there three or four times for tours and shadowing.  I really like the work environment,” Tyler says.  “Everyone was supportive, and I learned something new every day.”

His experience at Hess started like a paid internship – cleaning the shop, maintaining machines, and proving his ability to follow instructions.  After about six months, Tyler officially began his apprenticeship, working up to 45 hours a week and taking classes in the afternoons at North Central’s Kehoe Center.  He’s currently enrolled in Manufacturing Engineering Technology, which includes a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience.  “It’s practical knowledge that applies directly to my job,” he explains.  “North Central has all the machines a real shop would have, so it’s great for learning.”

The apprenticeship model at Hess is a win-win.  Tyler receives a full-ride scholarship for his college courses, and the company benefits from his growing skills.  “It’s like a paid internship with education covered,” Tyler says.  “I work full-time, take classes, and gain real-world experience – all while staying debt-free.”

What motivates Tyler the most is the work environment.  “Hess is a super clean shop with great air quality, which is not always the case in this field,” he notes. “The team is friendly and supportive.  They don’t just throw you into the deep end; they teach you how to do it right.”

Tyler plans to continue his journey toward earning his journeyman’s card and completing his two-year engineering degree at North Central.  After that, he hopes to transfer to Ohio State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree and maybe even a master’s degree.

“I want to be the first person at Hess to get an engineering degree through this program,” he says confidently.  “The combination of working full-time and studying has been challenging but rewarding.  I feel like I’m ahead of the game.”