Faculty and Administration

Chett Miles graduated from Ranken’s Industrial Engineering Technology program in May 2021. He served an internship with Midwest Sterilization while he was working on his degree and is now a maintenance technician at Midwest. Chett says, “Ranken gave me a jump start on the maintenance field along with life skills.”

Larry Calhoun, Maintenance Supervisor at Midwest Sterilization, explains “Chet has been a great addition to our team and has grown so much since I met him. He is patient and dependable and very hard working I appreciate every day we are blessed to have him.”

Jeremy Muscher, Maintenance Manager at Midwest, says “Chett has been full time with us for several months now and has become an integral part of our team. He adapted to our routines and learned our process quickly.  He was able to work independently and fill a spot in our on-call rotation immediately after finishing his internship. He works seamlessly alongside team members with far more experience. He has an excellent work ethic and a consistently positive attitude. The quality of his character and his training at Ranken are evident and make him an asset to our company.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://midweststerilization.com/

Nick Kallal credits Ranken for having a great impact on his career. “Ranken gave me the opportunity to find what I liked and to be capable of many different skills that have helped me in my career,” he tells us. “The electrical class I took for one semester taught me more than I needed to know for a first-year apprentice electrician. I am definitely ahead in my trade. The other technical classes I took at Ranken also helped me understand the industry. With basic knowledge of welding, hydraulics, mechanical and carpentry, I am able to better understand my job and career on a daily basis as an apprentice. I am very thankful for Ranken for getting me started on a great career.”

Nick graduated in May 2019 with an Associate Degree in Industrial Technology. He is an Apprentice Electrician with Reinhold Electric. Reinhold, founded in 1976, serves the greater St. Louis area, as well as Central Missouri, and Southwestern Illinois. The company utilizes over 250 electricians daily to provide service and maintenance work in homes and businesses. Their 24-hour emergency service provides customers during power outages and electrical failures.

Nick valued the hands-on training he received at Ranken. He says, “[Ranken] is definitely one-of-a-kind and will get anyone ahead on beginning a career. The job fair was a huge help in finding jobs. I had at least half a dozen job offers on the spot with another half dozen interviews ready to be set up.”

Greg Presley, former Industrial Technology Department Chair and instructor, explains “Nick was a model student. He is smart and has a great personality and work ethic. When he finished required projects in class, he would take on extra projects. It is not a surprise that he is successful in his job.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.reinholdelectric.com/

Griffin Grover graduated Magna Cum Laude with an Associate of Technology Degree in Advanced Manufacturing in December 2018. Griffin explains, “Ranken has vastly impacted my career and life since the first semester I was there. After eight weeks of in-class training, I was placed in my first internship at Tech Manufacturing and I’m still there four years later. [Ranken] made it so easy for me to get a job and career that I loved right out of the gate. Earning a wage in a paid internship while working on my degree was a really great aspect of their program. If it weren’t for going to Ranken, I don’t know where I would be today.” Griffin told us some of his favorite memories at Ranken were when his class was given down time to make their own personal projects in the shop. He says, “I made a set of Ford Mustang coasters on an Okuma horizontal mill that I still use today.”

J.C. Owen, Advanced Manufacturing Department Chair and instructor, tells us “Griffin’s work ethic is second to none. He attended class each day with the intent of expanding his knowledge and skills and looked for ways to grow as a machinist. A can-do, can-fix-it attitude drove Griffin. His desire and competitive nature to be among the best have allowed him to become a CNC Programmer for Tech Manufacturing, one of the elite aerospace companies in the St. Louis area.”

Rich Vaughan, Operations and Plant Manager at Tech Manufacturing, explains “Griffin is one of the biggest success stories at Tech Manufacturing!  He started as an intern and became a skilled machinist right away. He was promoted to shop floor programmer/tooling fabricator where he also excelled. From there, he was promoted to an Unigraphics NX programmer, an advanced high-end CAD/CAM/CAE system) and shop lead. Griffin has advanced in every department he has been in. He is also active in recruiting new interns. I can’t say enough about how well he is doing and how successful he’s become here. Griffin has a very bright future in this industry.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://techmanufacturing.com/

Nick Hufker graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Precision Machining Program in May 2021. He was the recipient of the Gene Haas scholarship in 2020. Nick says, “I have been financially paying for my college education and this [scholarship] will be of great help in paying for some of my expenses.” In a letter to the scholarship committee, he wrote “I respect and value highly the work you do to keep such an amazing foundation available for newcomers in the machining industry.” Nick currently works as a Setup Machinist at R&S Machining, the who’s who of the manufacturing machining world, producing Aerospace components.

Matthew Roderick, Lead Programmer for R&S Machining, and Ranken alum explains “Nick is a great worker! Since he began working here, he has been respectful, hardworking, quality orientated, and always striving to learn. Nick started in our 3axis department stock prepping parts at night, and then quickly excelled to gain more responsibility. He currently works in our 5axis department in our new facility. He is always on time and will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Nick has become a huge asset to our company and we’re really excited to see how much the future holds for him. With his great attitude and work ethic, Nick is going to be a core asset to our company for a long time. Working directly with him every day is great and I love having him as a team member.”

“Nick Hufker was an amazing student. He was very quick to learn new skills and, in my class, often willing to help other students with their projects without me asking,” says John Vanover, Advanced Manufacturing instructor. “He has awesome work ethic and was always on time to class. He is a real example of what Ranken expects from our students.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
http://randsmachine.com/

Matthew Mays graduated with a Certificate in Fabrication and Welding Technology in May 2018. He acknowledges, “I was able to change careers while attending Ranken’s welding program, which put me in a position for a more hands-on approach in my trade with more upward mobility. I believe going through the welding program gave me an advantage over others when I applied for a position at Airgas.” Airgas is an Air Liquide company, a leading single-source supplier of gases, welding equipment and supplies, and safety products.

Matt was hired as an Inside Sales Associate at Airgas (Pacific location) in October 2017. His prior welding experience and being enrolled at Ranken made him top pick. January 2021, he was asked to join a new Airgas team as an Outside Sales Support Specialist. Matt oversees sales operations at five locations, “from soup to nuts.”

Debra Alexander, Outside Sales Support Manager for Airgas, tells us “I refer to Matt as a rock star! He’s always on time, fully loaded and ready to go. I know when I assign Matt a project, he’s going to get it done. He’s very knowledgeable about our products, as well as the products of other vendors, so he readily offers our customers supply chain solutions.”

Ron Hampton, Industrial Technology instructor, explains “ Matt was always in a good mood and pleasure to have in class. He was a diligent worker and always prepared for class.” Matt recalls one of his fondest memories being “taking selfies in my welding booth while the class was at lunch and our instructor, Mr. Hampton, just happened to walk by. The look on his face was pretty funny. He just shook his head and walked away.”

Matt’s cousin, Jake Hartman, also attended Ranken Technical College, graduating with dual degrees in CST and HVAC in 2019.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.airgas.com/

Sam Schlechte began his Ranken journey in the summer of 2015. He has successfully completed three degrees since that time and is now on the staff of Ranken Technical College as a Maintenance Technician. Sam graduated from the Industrial Technology program in May 2017. He went on to complete his second associate’s degree in Electrical Automation Technology in 2019. Sam graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Management in May 2021.

“Having a Ranken education has had many impacts on my career and life,” says Sam. “I was a student worker for the Buildings and Ground Department at Ranken during my college journey and now my career is at Ranken.” Sam acknowledges he’s enjoyed his Ranken experience.

David Cadle, Director of Buildings and Grounds at Ranken, tells us “Sam has always been a great person to work with. He is always willing to help whenever needed, he is very smart and quick to help find the problem. He possesses a great attitude and makes a positive impact with those around him. He always arrives early and is prepared to work. Sam has the skills and abilities to be highly productive at any task given to him.“

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

Nicholas Meeks graduated with an Associate of Technology degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology at our Wentzville location in December 2020. Nick is currently a CNC (computer numerical control) Operator at Tech Manufacturing in Wright City, Missouri, where he served an apprenticeship while completing his degree. The company, founded in 1956, specializes in precision machining of complex aerospace structures.

Rich Vaughan, Operations and Plant Manager at Tech Manufacturing and Ranken alum, tells us “Nick has been a great asset to the team here at Tech Manufacturing!  He is very reliable and always comes to work with a positive attitude and is a team player. Nick will continue to grow with the company.”

Brad Elbert, Advanced Manufacturing Technology instructor, explains “The first thing I look for in a student is passion for machining. Nick had that passion from day one. He is very goal oriented. Nick is the kind of person who will successfully accomplish tasks with little to no supervision. He was always willing to help any student that was struggling. One quote that I heard him say many times was, ‘I just want it to be perfect’. Nick is the type of student that makes my job as an instructor very rewarding. There is no doubt in my mind that he will have a very successful career.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://techmanufacturing.com/

As President and CEO of R&S Machining, Inc, Thomas Roderick’s unparalleled determination and work ethic has made R&S Machining a leader in the aerospace industry, specializing in 4 & 5 axis aerospace components. Tom graduated Summa Cum Laude with a certification in Machine Shop in 1987 and later taught the Precision Machining program at Ranken Technical College from fall of 1989 to 1994. Tom tells us, “Ranken taught me that you can do whatever you put your mind to. Problem solving skills instilled a work ethic giving me the confidence to preserver in the face of adversity. It has allowed me to provide for my family in ways I never would have imagined.”

After serving a two-year apprenticeship in a job shop, Tom took a position with McDonnell Douglas, headquartered at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. During his ten years at McDonnell Douglas, Tom developed a very strong passion for aerospace manufacturing and a spirited enthusiasm for bettering the business. R&S Machining was founded in 1992 by two professionals with many years of experience in the machining industry. The company manufactures aerospace components, specializing in 4 & 5 axis machining. Their leadership instills a spirit of hard work and determination. According to Harvey Performance Company, a provider of world-class solutions to its customers in the manufacturing and metalworking industries, R&S Machining has been able to expand its facilities more than 225,000 square feet and 35 employees in the past four years (HPC 2021).

R&S Machining encourages eligible employees (postsecondary students) to participate in SkillsUSA competitions. SkillsUSA is a nonprofit national organization that drives the importance of education and integrity in the trades. SkillsUSA’s goals parallel R&S Machine’s mission to produce world-class workers and leaders. Tom’s field experience inspired him to teach and mentor others. Commitment to high-quality standards, cutting-edge training, and conformance to industries and customers’ evolving requirements are the foundation of R&S Machining’s sterling reputation.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://randsmachine.com/

Scott Miller tells us, “Ranken provided him the tools and methods necessary to be successful in this field; not just textbook knowledge but practical application by experienced professionals in the business.” Scott graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate Degree in Precision Machining Technology in 2017.

Scott served as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps for four years after working as a residential general contractor. He worked in machining and construction fabrication both before and after attending Ranken. Scott is now the Owner & Operator of 360 Machine Shop, LLC, a precision machining and manufacturing shop specializing in 5-Axis machining located in East Peoria, Illinois.

Scott competed in the 2017 and 2018 SkillsUSA CNC Technician contests. He took 1^st place at both the district and state championships. Scott advanced to the SkillsUSA National Conferences, where he placed 10^th nationally in 2017 and finished 3^rd in 2018.

Chris Clinton, former Precision Machining instructor, explains “Being an instructor at Ranken Technical College provided some of my most cherished memories in the machining industry. The most rewarding aspect was working with students who had that ‘it’ factor; Scott Miller was that student. His work ethic, ambition, and raw talent always stood out to us. Scott was not only engaged at the highest level personally, he also made himself available to help any students who struggled with the material. I’ve kept up with Scott since his time at Ranken. I couldn’t be more excited about both his growth in the industry and knowing he will ‘pay it forward’ by bringing young people into the trade and helping them reach their full potential. The only thing Scott loves more than the machining industry is Candy Corn!!”

Scott says, “My favorite memories while at Ranken were working with students who genuinely wanted to learn and better their abilities, and the faculty who legitimately encouraged growth and went above-and-beyond to facilitate it.” Scott worked as a tutor, shop assistant, and lab assistant while attending Ranken.

Scott pictured above at 2018 SkillsUSA National Conference (2nd from right)
Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.facebook.com/360MachineShop/

Matthew Roderick is a Lead Programmer at R&S Machining, a leader in the aerospace industry. Matthew graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate Degree in Precision Machining and Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Applied Management December 2017.

Jim Maloney, Operations Manager for R&S Machining, explains “Matthew Roderick has worked his way up to our Lead programmer from parts finishing. His work ethic, attitude and performance-based results are commendable. He is a disciplined, dependable team player and willing to lend a hand where required. I firmly believe that the combination of technical school training and his industry experience complement each other very well.”

Jeff Ogle, former Precision Machining Department Chair and instructor, tells us “Matthew was an exemplary student in the Precision Machining program. It didn’t take long to see he was going to be an asset to R&S Machining as an intern. He always had a great attitude and an outstanding work ethic. Matt pushed to learn new things, always working ahead and willing to lend a hand to his classmates,” he says. Jeff recalls Matt competing in SkillsUSA District Manufacturing contests. “In 2016, Matt placed 1^st in the CNC Milling contest, advancing to State where he took 2^nd place. In 2017, Matt and his team placed 1st in the Automated Manufacturing contest, advanced to State, and placed 1^st again. Next stop, the SkillsUSA National Conference where Matt led his team to win the gold!”

Matthew says his Ranken education gave him the foundation and fundamentals that are so critical for continued success in the machining industry. “Without it, he says, I wouldn’t have been able to excel as much as I have and as fast as I did. I was employed by R&S Machining while I was at Ranken during both of my programs.” His favorite memory is winning gold at the 2017 SkillsUSA National Conference. Matt was also nominated for the David Ranken Jr. award in 2017.

Tom Roderick, Matthew’s father, is a Ranken alum. He received a certificate in Machine Shop in 1987 and later taught the Precision Machining program at Ranken.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://randsmachine.com/

Frank was a very good student in high school and when he decided to go to Ranken his college counselors tried to dissuade him, but he knew what he wanted to do. It is clear that Frank made the right choice. After graduating from Ranken he went to work for a St. Louis based machine shop and after a time started working at the shop he now owns, Elite Tool in Moscow Mills, MO. “I firmly believe in the Ranken Model,” says Roth. “With the skills I’ve learned and the opportunities I’ve had in industry to further my training, I was able to run a machine and fabrication shop and become the plant manager of Elite Tool when I was just 26 years old. We purchased the business and have owned Elite Tool since 2008.” In 2020 Frank gave a generous gift to the Ranken West Endowed Scholarship. “I received scholarships when I went to Ranken,” says Roth IV. “The money that I was awarded paid for my entire first year and part of my second and I ultimately graduated with zero debt for my education.”

He added, “I’ve been very successful in my career, thanks to the start I got at Ranken. It’s time to give back — to Ranken and to the community in which I live. As the demand continues to rise for more skilled workers in the region, we all need to step up and support this collaborative partnership in the community and help students on their way to successful tech careers.”

Roth’s father, Frank III, is also a Ranken graduate, earning his associate degree in Gas and Diesel engines in 1974. He now works for his son at Elite Tool.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

Tech Manufacturing, with over 70 employees at their facility in Wright City, MO, has been a top supplier to major Aerospace manufacturers for over five decades. Alumnus Rich Vaughan, their Wright City Operations/Plant Manager, talks with us about the value of a Ranken degree and his start in the industry. He also discusses Tech Manufacturing’s valued partnership with our college, which produces a steady stream of skilled employees and promotions. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Ranken,” Rich tells us.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

Nick Woolbright is currently a Computer Numerical Control Machinist writing code for 7-axis robotic arms on automated robots for the Boeing Company, the world’s largest aerospace company. He graduated with an Associate Degree in Precision Machining Technology in May 2018. Nick shares his heartfelt gratitude for having attained his Ranken degree. He says, “Ranken has allowed me to get a fantastic career very early in life. This allowed me to increase the quality of my life exponentially . . . I attribute my success solely to my experience at Ranken and how it led me to a good job.” Nick and his wife, Crystal, tied the knot in 2020 and purchased their first home this year.

Nick and his team competed in the 2018 SkillsUSA Automated Manufacturing District Contest. They took 1^st place and advanced to the State Championship where they placed 1^st again, bringing home the gold. Nick and his team qualified to complete at the SkillsUSA National Conference held in Louisville, Kentucky. He was excited at the prospect of competing against rivals from across the country. Nick’s experience of participating at the national conference is one of his favorite memories during his time at Ranken.

Jeff Ogle, former Precision Machining Department Chair and instructor, tells us “Nick was a great student and I enjoyed having him in the Precision Machining program. I remember helping Nick prepare for one of his interviews. I think he thought I was crazy based on some of the questions I was asking him while preparing. Nick came back in the next day and said, ‘Mr. Ogle you were right about the questions,’ but he got the job! I am glad to hear Nick is successful and doing well!”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
http://www.boeing.com/

Lori Sommer received her Associate Degree in Machine Shop Technology in May 1991. She tells us Ranken had an amazing impact on her life. “I learned the practical skills of the trade in an excellent program with exceptional instructors. However, the lessons went far beyond that. I was taught the dignity of labor, as well as critical thinking skills that eventually applied to all aspects of my life.” Lori was a student in the McDonnell Douglas Foundation Scholarship/Internship Program while attending Ranken. While she had hoped to acquire permanent employment after completing the program, the aerospace company began laying off one out of every seven workers. Lori was honored with the Outstanding Graduate and the Perfect Attendance in Program Awards at graduation.

With over 15 years with the Associated General Contractors of Missouri, where she managed operations for Construction Careers Center Charter High School, Lori now holds the position of Associate Director of Charter School Compliance at Washington University in St. Louis.

One memory of Ranken, very personal to Lori, speaks to her being the only female in her machining class. She remembers the program starting off a bit rocky. Back then, women in the trades were often looked upon with some suspicion and disdain. She says, “Most of the guys didn’t know how to speak to me for the first six months. I preferred the silence to their sometimes-cutting remarks. I kept my head down and focused on the challenging courses.”

Two weeks before May graduation, her shop instructor, Mr. Pumfrey opened a discussion about the future and who merited their upcoming degrees. He pointed to Lori, saying “What about her?” She recalls the guys all turning to her, several of them chiming in, “She deserves it; she earned it. She worked her behind off for this.” Lori reveals, “It was honestly one of the proudest moments I’ve ever experienced, more so than any honors or awards. In that moment I truly felt accepted as an equal by my peers.” Mr. Pumfrey often stayed and tutored Lori most days after school during the first semester so she could practice on the machines and improve her skills.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://wustl.edu/

There is a critical shortage of industrial technicians in the workforce. Employers are partnering with Ranken to help build their pipeline of skilled workers. Earning potential for occupations in this industry is limited only by your desire to learn. Career path opportunities into supervision and management, or entrepreneurship are endless. It is a multi-skill, multi-craft profession which provides a lot of flexibility to advance your career.

Jeffery Scott graduated Cum Laude from Ranken’s Industrial Technology program in December 2006. He can attest to opportunities in this field. Following graduation, Jeff dove in to working for local industry. One job search led him to John Henry Foster, the largest, full-service pneumatic and hydraulic equipment distributor in the Midwest, where he was an Air Service Technician. In 2008, Jeff joined the ranks of Ranken faculty for the next ten years, teaching Industrial Mechanical Systems in the Industrial Technology program. He is currently a Training Supervisor for Ameren, a Fortune 500 company that powers the quality of life for millions of people throughout Illinois and Missouri.

Greg Presley, Industrial Technology Department Chair and instructor, explains “Jeff Scott was an outstanding student with an eye for detail and the desire and drive to accomplish any task at the highest level. When Tim Hessel, former Industrial Electrical instructor, asked  if I could refer a student to assemble and mount electric brakes for his motor shop, I immediately said ‘Jeff Scott.’ Being that Mr. Hessel was extremely attentive to the aesthetic and functionality of every electric device installed in his shop, Jeff was the only student up for the task. After the install was complete, Mr. Hessel not only complimented Jeff, but found more work for him to do. He was the only student worker I ever heard Mr. Hessel brag about.”

Jeff expressed the impact that Ranken has had on his career, “Ranken is a great place to be from! My work life is a direct result of what I learned both as a student and as a teacher at Ranken.” In 2011, Jeff received the Distinguished Young Alumni Award.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.ameren.com/

Tyler Milek, graduate of Ranken’s Advanced Precision Machining Technology Program, explains, “Ranken has helped and allowed me to not only expand my knowledge for my career path in programming, but also has allowed me to be more creative in my free time. I also invested in a CNC router and mill for the robotics team I mentor, and I can now teach middle and high school students about machining.”

Tyler went to work for The Gund Company as a machinist after graduating Cum Laude in May 2020. [The company] is a global, vertically integrated, manufacturer and fabricator of engineered material solutions for the most demanding electrical and mechanical requirements of our industry leaders. “Tyler is a valued employee,” says Josh D’Atri, Value Stream Manager, at The Gund Company . . . “He is eager to learn and is capable of working in many areas of the shop. What we admire most about Tyler is that he is a great team player and has a lot of potential for future growth within our organization.”

Paul Durkee, Precision Machining Technology Instructor, recalls “Tyler was the type of student that is an asset to others around him. Besides having a passion for machining and engineering, he has a great work ethic and is one of the nicest guys you will meet. Tyler went above and beyond during his time at Ranken, and I expect that he will have an abundance of success in his career moving forward.”

One of Tyler’s fondest memories of his Ranken experience is having the opportunity to create a custom set of coasters for Missouri Senator, Roy Blunt, with the U.S. Senate Seal on the inside.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.facebook.com/TheGundCompany/
https://thegundcompany.com/

Marcus Chaplin spent eight years in the Army then chose Ranken Technical College and studied Industrial Engineering Technology (IET). He graduated Magna Cum Laude with an Associate Degree in Industrial Technology in May 2013. Marcus is a Senior Facilities Manager for W.W. Grainger, a worldwide industrial supply company. “Ranken helped hone my work ethic and helped me transition from the military to the civilian world. The dress code, student code and attendance policies were all very comforting, having lived a rigid military life. Ranken taught me the mechanical, electrical, and fabricating skills that I have used every day since my graduation both in my professional and personal life,” he says. “I wouldn’t be where I am today, overseeing a 1.3 million square foot facility and a team of 40, without the combination of leadership development and technical aptitude. [I’m] proud to be a veteran of this great nation and proud to be an alum of Ranken!”

Jeffrey Scott, former IET instructor and Ranken alum, explains “Marcus was a great student with a strong drive and work ethic. He was always the first to jump in on projects and volunteer for assignments. Marcus served in a student worker role that included prepping, teaching and mentoring other students.”

Steve Williams, Senior Manager of Facilities, DC Operations Excellence at Grainger, shared “Marcus exhibits great leadership ability, willingness to accept responsibility to develop his team, as a strong team makes a strong leader. While I’ve only had less than a year working with him, it’s apparent that he is eager to contribute to his local team, and the larger team within the organization, and supply his insight and experiences to benefit the whole.”

While at Ranken, Marcus served as Student Ambassador President and President of the Student Government Association. His favorite memory was being hired as an adjunct instructor and teaching continuing education classes in the evening. He says, “[It] launched my love for developing and investing in the success of those around me.” Marcus taught Mechanical Systems and welding classes as an adjunct instructor for Ranken from 2012-2013.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.grainger.com/

Tyler Keim graduated with an Associate Degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology in May 2021. He was born and raised in Troy, Missouri. Tyler was diagnosed with a profound hearing loss when he was a toddler and received a cochlear implant at the age of three. Tyler says, “I have always been interested in computers, technology, and the skilled trades, so I looked at what careers fit my goals. That’s when I found the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Program at the Ranken Technical College Wentzville campus.”

J.C. Owen, Advanced Machining Department Chair and Instructor, tells us “I remember meeting Tyler Keim during an Open House event. He displayed a strong interest in an Advanced Precision Machining Technology career.” Despite his challenges, Tyler persevered and overcame obstacles without complaint. “He displayed the true definition of commitment, dedication, and enthusiasm. It was my pleasure to work with Tyler and develop a relationship with such an outstanding student. How fortunate Elite Tool is to have such a devoted student of manufacturing be a part of their team.”

Tyler elected to participate in Ranken’s Advanced Precision Machining internship program and was hired by Elite Tool, an established lean contract manufacturer serving aerospace, commercial, and government/defense industry. Tyler says, “I was hired part-time at Elite Tool in Moscow Mills while still  attending classes, [upon graduation] I was hired full-time as a CNC Operator for a great company and would not have gotten here without the training I received at Ranken.”

Jon Zierenberg, Plant Manager at Elite Tool, explains “Tyler Keim has a great attitude and always gives 110% at anything he does. He also has great work ethic, always on time and ready to go at his shift start. I feel he has been a great addition to our team here at Elite Tool.”

Tyler’s grandfather and two uncles graduated from Ranken in Saint Louis.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://elite-tool.com/

Taylor Watson graduated Cum Laude in 2020 from Ranken’s Precision Machining Program.

Instructor Robert Wirtel tells us, “I had Taylor as a student for CNC Programming. He was always early to class and was very eager to learn as much as possible. He learned quickly and retained knowledge very well. Taylor was always a pleasure to be around. He worked very well with the other students and  would be a good addition to any machine shop.”

Bill Lochmoeller, Owner and Manager of Sales and Marketing at Roton Products, Inc. explains, “Taylor is a great employee.  His role here is machinist, working with CNC lathes, special equipment, and thread rolling.  What we admire most about Taylor is his versatility.  He is skilled and willing to perform every task we ask him to do.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.roton.com/

Ranken Grads in the Workplace: One of the most exciting events to take place at Ranken year after year is the SkillsUSA District Competition. It’s such an honor to watch our students compete with other area students to show off how hard they’ve worked and what they’ve learned. Nick Meloy is one of those students who stood out. Last year, Meloy took home the 1st place trophy in the Welding contest. Had it not been for the COVID-19 pandemic, he would have been able to compete at the Missouri State Championship contest as well.

His success in welding doesn’t stop there. In May 2020, Nick graduated from the Fabrication & Welding program Summa Cum Laude, and is now employed as a laborer for LoneStar Pipeline Contractors.

“Nick Meloy was one of the top students in Ranken’s 2019-20 program,” said Cory Blair, a Ranken Welding instructor. “He was highly skilled, had a great work ethic, and was an employee for the welding department as a student worker.”

https://www.facebook.com/LoneStarPipelineContractors

https://www.lonestarplc.com

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

Riley Riehn, a 2019 graduate of the Industrial Engineering Technology Internship, is now employed full time at TG Missouri Corporation. During his time at Ranken, Riley says he enjoyed “getting to work hands-on and apply my skills that I learned in the classroom.”

Those skills led to gaining full time employment directly out of his program at TG MIssouri, with whom Ranken Technical College partners with in Perryville, MO.

“Having my Ranken degree allowed me to obtain full time employment as an Engineering Technician, with a reputable company,” Riley says.

To learn more about the Industrial Engineering Technology Internship, please visit our website.

https://www.facebook.com/TG-Missouri-382090481825836

http://www.tgmissouri.com/index.html

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

Ranken Technical College is a premier destination for many wishing to enter one of dozens of skilled technical professions. But the college is also a valuable method of course correction: a way for adults to change careers and steer themselves onto a more satisfying or sustainable path. One such story, and an extraordinary one, is Eric Bowman.

In 2008, Eric felt himself at a crossroads. “I lost my job and only had a high school diploma,” he says. “I decided to attend Ranken in hopes of starting a new career that paid well and provided good benefits.” Industrial Technology Department Chair Greg Presley remembers Eric well: “Very smart and [in the] top percentage of his class. . . He was a mentor to other students and a great problem solver.”

Eric’s course changed dramatically. He is now an NC (Numerical Control) Electrician working with two global leaders: Boeing and Anheuser-Busch. His fellow co-workers continually deliver accolades about his job performance, whether it’s leadership that promotes workplace safety, developing and verifying complex procedures for a Final Paint Oven, making an impact across an entire tooling center by ensuring 777x robots function correctly, or skillfully identifying deficiencies that result in cost avoidance. A reliability engineer co-worker stated that “Eric deserves commendations for his thorough efforts.”

Eric’s academic performance has been equally outstanding. At Ranken, he repeatedly returned to the well of knowledge to further his skills and career options. From 2009 to 2016, he earned Associate degrees in Electrical Construction Design & Management, Industrial Technology, and Electrical Maintenance; finally, Eric earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management in 2020. Eric achieved Magna Cum Laude or Cum Laude status in each case! He is one of many students who has reengaged in higher education at Ranken Technical College and found their true calling.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/

https://www.facebook.com/Boeing

https://www.facebook.com/AnheuserBusch

Pictured (left to right): Tim Nixon, electrical lead man, Nathan Wegener, NC electrician, and Eric Bowman @ Boeing. Photo taken prior to Covid pandemic.

Zack Darr graduated in May 2015 from Ranken’s Precision Machining Technology program. Zack is deservedly proud of the path he has taken and the skills he’s acquired in the field. “The machinist certificate gave me a foundational skill set that got my foot in the door. My on-the-job training has led to an excellent career in the industrial maintenance mechanic field,” he says. “Before coming to CBRE (Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis group) I was a machinist apprentice for Hydromat, building, installing, and servicing machinery. I’m currently a Service Technician 3 for facilities, robotics, and machinery at CBRE St. Louis. I’m a millwright, experienced in electrical, fabrication and control systems, and this all began with making the decision to have a trade skill as my foundation.”

Wayne Perkins, Maintenance Manager STL 9, CBRE, explains “I have been working with Zach for about 6 months. He is one of my Tech 3’s, which is a Lead. Zach loves challenges and does a great job. He learns very fast and picks up skills very quickly. Zach has been a great asset to the team and works well with others. I am very pleased to have Zach as one of my Team Leads and see him advancing into management.”

Zach tells us one of his favorite memories while at Ranken was “Seeing the CNC machines generate their own tool paths for high-speed machining profiles. That was really awesome.”

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://www.cbre.us/people-and-offices/corporate-offices/st-louis

Frank was a very good student in high school and when he decided to go to Ranken his college counselors tried to dissuade him, but he knew what he wanted to do. It is clear that Frank made the right choice. After graduating from Ranken he went to work for a St. Louis based machine shop and after a time started working at the shop he now owns, Elite Tool in Moscow Mills, MO. “I firmly believe in the Ranken Model,” says Roth. “With the skills I’ve learned and the opportunities I’ve had in industry to further my training, I was able to run a machine and fabrication shop and become the plant manager of Elite Tool when I was just 26 years old. We purchased the business and have owned Elite Tool since 2008.” In 2020 Frank gave a generous gift to the Ranken West Endowed Scholarship. “I received scholarships when I went to Ranken,” says Roth IV. “The money that I was awarded paid for my entire first year and part of my second and I ultimately graduated with zero debt for my education.”

He added, “I’ve been very successful in my career, thanks to the start I got at Ranken. It’s time to give back — to Ranken and to the community in which I live.  As the demand continues to rise for more skilled workers in the region, we all need to step up and support this collaborative partnership in the community and help students on their way to successful tech careers.”

Roth’s father, Frank III (pictured with Frank IV), is also a Ranken graduate, earning his associate degree in Gas and Diesel engines in 1974. He now works for his son at Elite Tool.

Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/
https://elite-tool.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Elite%20Tool%20&%20Machinery/151127868262324/

After graduating from the Machining program Dale worked for 47 years in a variety of positions and for a variety of companies. He was a tool room machinist, a tool and die maker, and built die casts and plastic molds. He spent twenty years with Mueller Machine and also worked at Standard Machine along with a few other shops. Dale said that “Ranken opened doors for me. If I mentioned that I graduated from Ranken in an interview it definitely helped.” He also met his wife through a friend at Ranken and has been married for 46 years. Dale has one son who is a Ranken alumnus as well and two grandkids. Now Dale and his wife spend their time collecting antiques and like to take long trips in their RV. His favorite memory of Ranken is his classmates.

As a student in the Machining program, Dave worked in the tool crib for the evening program and as a night watchman. One of the classmates he remembers being friends with was Bill Flanigan from Automotive. After graduating, Dave went to work for American Railcar Industries where he was employed for 45 years. The company was located on The Hill before moving to St. Charles. For his first 35 years, he was a machinist then switched to Environmental Health Safety for his last ten years. The safety training, he coordinated for employees came in handy when one of the secretaries had a heart attack and Dave used CPR to save her life. “I never thought I would need to use that stuff,” Dave said, “but I am glad I knew what to do.” Dave was honored by the City of St. Charles for this selfless act. Dave says, “I highly recommend Ranken” and remembers it “being very strict and challenging which was good [for building character].” Dave has three kids, Kia, Kurt, and Holly, and six grandkids.