In this authentic and encouraging episode of VoQuest, host C.W. Elliott sits down with his lifelong friend Joe Minner, an automation engineer who proves that career success doesn't require a master plan—just following the next breadcrumb God puts in front of you.
Joe's journey began when their mutual friend Chris mentioned a community college program his dad was "making" him attend. With no clear career direction and dreams of being an airline pilot or forestry worker, Joe decided to check out OTC's Industrial Controls and Automation Technology program. That single decision launched a career path he never knew existed.
Discover how Joe went from serving tables at Red Lobster to programming the industrial computers that run the machines you see on "How It's Made." Learn why he believes community college vo-tech programs offer incredible value and accessibility, especially for students who don't have family connections to guide them through college applications and financial aid.
Joe shares honest insights about the engineering world, including why the best internship candidates are those who admit they don't know everything, how networking means "talking to adults" (not just your peers), and why his company's culture of people "standing around talking" actually produces excellent work.
Get practical advice on building confidence through repetitive work, leveraging homeschool self-learning skills in professional settings, and why the three-legged stool of humble curiosity, work ethic, and integrity is the only resume you really need.
Key Topics:
- Why you don't need to plan 12 steps ahead in your career
- The hidden world of industrial automation and manufacturing
- How community college can launch engineering careers
- Real talk about internships: "You're not supposed to know anything"
- Why networking means stepping outside your age group
- Building confidence through mastering one thing before moving to the next
- The value of practical, hands-on education vs. traditional university paths
Perfect for: High school students unsure about their path, those considering community college, anyone interested in engineering but intimidated by traditional routes, and parents looking for alternatives to four-year university programs.
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