Stephanie Mekhail, ’17, was a single mom working in a day care when she decided she wanted a career change. At Thaddeus Stevens College in Lancaster, she studied to become a skilled electrician, and that opened doors. An internship at Nestlé Purina in Mechanicsburg, led to a job offer before she even graduated.
“I’m part of a team,” says the new Controls Technician at the pet food manufacturer, “It’s not just a job—it’s a career. Plus, I’m able to work for a company that shares a passion of mine—pets.”
After only six months, Stephanie already manages contractors and is planning to take advantage of the company’s advancement opportunities.
“Earning a degree at Stevens and joining Purina are the best things I could have done for my life,” she says. “Being financially independent is a big deal. I’m the head of household now. I can support my son, and my mom could afford to retire.”
Alex Headings, ’14, tried several entry-level jobs before he got an associate’s degree at Stevens. Hands-on learning kept him engaged, and he graduated with zero debt.
“Professors are passionate about what they are teaching,” he says. The College taught him a strong work ethic and to keep learning, which he is practicing as a Controls Technical Specialist at Purina.
“It’s a collaborative environment. Everyone is willing to share ideas and learn,” he says.
Stephanie and Alex are living proof that Thaddeus Stevens is transforming today’s students into the skilled workforce companies like Purina need.
Sponsored by Nestlé Purina
Nestlé Purina is dedicated to developing highly-skilled manufacturing employees through robust apprenticeship, mentorship, internship, and management development opportunities. Partnerships like that between Thaddeus Stevens and our Mechanicsburg factory provide hands-on experience developing some of the most innovative products within the Purina portfolio—products proudly made right here in Central Pennsylvania.
Want to Help?
Thaddeus Stevens Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit, supports and advances the mission of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology by receiving and disbursing donations from corporate donors, such as Nestlé Purina, private foundations, and from individuals like you. To find out how you can help, please visit stevenscollege.edu/give-to-tsct.
