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Graybar, a Fortune 500 company, specializes in supply chain management services and is a leading North American distributor of high-quality components, equipment and materials for a number of industries.
With more than $5.7 billion in revenue (2013), Graybar employs thousands of men and women at more than 250 North American distribution centers. As one of North America's largest employee-owned companies, Graybar has the power and stability of a big company coupled with the integrity and drive of a neighborhood business.
Information Technology Alumni
Graybar Software Developer | 2010 Graduate
The day after I graduated from Ranken I had three job offers with small companies. I accepted a job working for a gardening company that needed a web developer to build the new company site. In my time there I also built a custom email service that integrated with the company’s current CRM.
My next move after The Garden Kingdom could possibility be the most influential career move I have made to date. I took a position with a startup marketing firm goBRANDgo! in the Benton Park area as a lead developer and turned out over 100 web sites in my first year. The company ended up grossing a million dollars in the first year they were open. After I felt that I had outgrown the work that I was doing at goBRANDgo! I went to work for a much larger marketing agency downtown called Group 360 Worldwide.
My time there was a blast and I got to work on much larger brands such as Busch Beer, Rolling Rock, Johnson & Johnson, and Bass Pro Shop. This was my opportunity to show off my ability and have a chance to do some real public facing work. I left Group 360 Worldwide for a chance to really dive deep in to PHP with a smaller company named Tuva Interactive in Kirkwood MO. This job allowed me to get hands on work that dealt with big data and high traffic sites. This brings me to where I am now. After about four and a half years of hard work and long nights, I was able to catch a bigger fish. I landed my current position here at Graybar Electric, my first fortune 500 company. I have not been here long enough to really elaborate on what the work experience is like or to cover any real major accomplishments. I will say that Ranken opened the first door to many doors for me and my career, and even almost five years later the opportunities have not stopped popping up.
Ranken for me was the beginning of my new life. Out of high school I had no idea what I wanted to do or who I wanted to become. I tried out community college for a semester but found quickly that having my head down in books was not for me. Ranken provided me with the hands on leaning experience that I need to thrive.
AVALA is a Digital Relationship Marketing (DRM) agency with 15+ years experience connecting consumers with leading brands.
We provide out clients with Digital Relationship (Engagement) Marketing strategy and technology platforms (applications) to help them engage digitally with their customers during pre-sale awareness, sales consideration and post sales advocacy.
Information Technology Alumni
AVALA Software Engineer | 2011 Graduate
During my last semester at Ranken, I was hired by Neutron Technologies to do .NET development for the Royal Canin dog food company in St. Charles. I worked for the startup Juggle.com for a short period. I then moved on to Cass Information Systems in Bridgeton where I assumed a largely MSSQL development position. I am currently a Software Engineer at Avala Marketing Group, where I work on our MVC-based marketing platform, Aimbase.com.
Ranken’s Internet & Web-Based Technology program couldn’t have worked out any better for me. I had a job doing web development, with a company that I liked, before I had even graduated. Ranken’s IWT program gave me the solid foundation of skills I needed to get my foot in the door with the right companies because I had learned what they needed me to know. Since graduating, I continue to climb the ranks as I expand and refine my skill set.
True Media is an independent, full-service media strategy and communications company committed to delivering effective media strategies and execution to every client. Our media neutral belief combined with a holistic integration of social media, interactive and traditional advertising works.
We believe that media and creative are separate disciplines but must work in concert together to achieve optimal results. Thus, we collaborate with clients and creative agencies to make sure the media aligns with the overall message and brand. Through powerful research tools and an in-depth understanding of both digital and non-digital media, we help our clients around the world strategically position their brands in front of targeted, motivated and captive audiences.
What we provide is objective, fact-based analysis and media solutions, driven by the latest in software and consumer research. And we use the latest auditing media technology to provide accountability for every campaign.
Information Technology Alumni
True Media Associate Digital Project Manager | 2009 Graduate
After graduating from Ranken, I worked for Network Solutions, a Web.Com Company. I started as an eCommerce Specialist helping small business acheive success. I worked my way up as the Supervisor of the eCommerce department where i managed many large ecommerce accounts, including PGA.com and the web.com tour. I then moved on to project manage the development process of ecommerce websites at SteadyRain. I now manage digital marketing for many national ecommerce agriculture companies at True Media in St. Louis, Mo. I have six years experience as a Project Manager and Account Manager of all digital aspects including, e-commerce, web design, web development and online marketing.
My time at Ranken help me learn the process of web development and prepare myself for the digital business world. Ranken also helped me gain great internships at Network Solutions and insidestl.com, where i learned the framework of web design.
Since 2000, Vision Commerce has delivered business origination solutions to the commercial lending, consumer lending, banking, credit union and other small business lending industries. We embrace the diversity and creativity of our customers and tailor our solutions to enhance their unique qualities.
Information Technology Alumni
Vision Commerce SQL DBA / Support Specialist | 2010 Graduate
Ranken’s method of teaching is what earns you the great career you expect with a degree. The hands on experience you get on a day-to-day basis is what every employer loves to hear. The skills I learned every semester landed me a job working as a computer technician right out of college. I gained experience and worked hard. Every week I would get a list of job openings from Mr. Gudmestad, and with the education and experience I had, I was able to land my current job as a SQL DBA. I couldn’t be more pleased with my job or my education.
Information Technologies, Inc. (ITI) is a full service provider of software solutions and services to the Public Safety industry. Our Enterprise Edition – Public Safety Software is built around industry leading technology; Microsoft’s .NET Framework and SQL Server and is completely Mobile Aware. Each Enterprise module is built around the ‘core functionality’ of the ITI Public Safety Framework, which acts as the foundation for this innovative platform.
Information Technology Alumni
Information Technologies, Inc. Client Support Technician | 2011 Graduate
In my 2nd semester at Ranken, I started working as a Help Desk Technician for a local call center, Customer Direct. I was responsible for providing tier 1 support for hotel guests’ internet connections, along with supporting connection issues for a few small DSL companies. After graduating from Ranken I began work as a tier 1 technician for Connectria Hosting in their Network Operations Center. Here I was responsible for fielding client phone calls and support tickets. My main jobs included monitoring the client server’s health, managing firewall rules and various tasks assigned by engineers. I eventually made my way to Windows Engineer, in which I deployed hosted Window servers and handled OS and software related support issues.
After two years at Connectria I moved onto my current company, Information Technologies Inc. Currently I am responsible for deploying and supporting a .NET/SQL based software as well as providing SQL based queries to return statistical data which used by public safety agencies.
Ranken’s fast pace and ready to work feel has helped me land some very diverse jobs, with always-changing technology. This training has helped me adjust quickly and be able to learn new things in an accelerated pace. This is the true definition of Ranken material.
Forward Slash Technology is a computer consulting firm that serves companies located mostly around the St. Louis area. They offer IT and computer consulting and support services. They do everything from network security, VOIP services, camera security and now, since I've been hired, they offer web development, application development, and marketing.
Information Technology Alumni
Forward Slash Technology Web Developer/Analyst | 2014 Graduate
After Ranken, I had many places offering me positions. Mr. Gudmestad helped a ton with the finding of my current position, and well as many other position choices (Secretly, I didn’t have to do any job searching!)
With the education I received from Ranken, I was able to jump right into a job, meeting the expectations of the company and more.
Ranken gave me all the skills that I needed to jump into doing the things I love. I have literally taken everything from my Web & Application Development classes and use them daily on the job.
National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC) is an information technology company that develops and supports software and hardware solutions for our Member-Owners, primarily utility and telecommunications organizations across the United States. NISC is an industry leader providing advanced, integrated IT solutions that are java-based and focused on the cloud. At NISC, our focus is service excellence and innovative information technology solutions that enable our Member-Owners to excel in customer service, maximize diversification opportunities, and compete effectively in the changing utility and telecommunications industries. Today, more than five million consumers in 48 states, American Samoa, Palau, and Canada receive utility or telecommunications services from companies utilizing our advanced information technology systems. As a cooperative, NISC is owned by the users of our systems, our Member-Owners, providing an unparalleled working relationship and inside understanding on industry operations, changes and requirements.
Information Technology Alumni
National Information Solutions Cooperative Java Software Associate | 2014 Graduate
After my second semester of Internet and Web Technology I knew my first programming language and that summer I spent my free time teaching myself the ways of Android development. Since then I have developed, tested, and deployed that app, and some others, to the Google Play Store.
A month or so before graduation I was called in for an interview with NISC (National Information Solutions Cooperative). They were very interested in the fact that I spent so much of my own time learning, and that I came out of it with something tangible that solved a personal problem of mine. If it hadn’t been for Mr. Gudmestad passing along my resume and having something that stands out as much as a mobile application, I probably wouldn’t be in the position I am today.
Every day at NISC I learn something new, talk about an amazing new feature or technology, and work with one of the smartest and most innovative group of developers.
Tapestry Solutions, together with Miro Technologies, forms Boeing’s Logistics Information Management Systems (LIMS). LIMS, a subdivision of the Boeing Training Systems and Government Services (TSGS) division, delivers value to The Boeing Company and its customers by focusing its products and services on DoD, Commercial, and International Markets, as a leader in developing custom and commercial of-the-shelf (COTS) software solutions and providing world-class training and support services. LIMS manages and optimizes business processes and operations to help its customers achieve maximum efficiency in their distribution processes.
Information Technology Alumni
Tapestry Solutions Software Engineer | 2011 Graduate
During my last semester at Ranken Technical College I was hired by Engage Software as a Web Developer. At Engage I worked on an array of different websites all based in ASP.NET using the DNN CMS (Content Management System). While I was at Engage I decided continued my education at Webster University; where after only two years I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Information Systems with an Emphasis in Web Development. After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, I parted ways with Engage to work as a Software Engineer at Tapestry Solutions. Here at Tapestry I can wake up every day and know that I am making a difference.
My experience at Ranken has greatly helped me pursue my passion. Not only did Ranken teach me the skills I needed to succeed (C#, HTML, JavaScript, SQL, and more), but it also mentally prepared me for the real word. The instructors have and still continually support me and my advancing career even after I graduated. I owe a lot of my success to the many doors that have been opened for me thanks for Ranken.
The Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command is a unique Army command that delivers world-class, origin-to-destination distribution solutions. Whenever and wherever Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are deployed, SDDC is involved in planning and executing the surface delivery of their equipment and supplies.
SDDC is the Army Service Component Command of the U.S. Transportation Command and is a major subordinate command to Army Materiel Command. This relationship links USTRANSCOM's Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise and AMC's Materiel Enterprise. The command also partners with the commercial transportation industry as the coordinating link between DOD surface transportation requirements and the capability industry provides.
Information Technology Alumni
Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command Computer Scientist | 2009 Graduate
Currently Work for Surface Deployment Distribution Command (SDDC) as a Computer Scientist. Duties include serves as a technical manager for the Intelligent Road Rail Information Server (IRRIS) real-time military tracking and infrastructure system. Manages all system interfaces from multiple sources to ensure requirements are incorporated, designed, and tested to ensure optimal performance. Reviews transportation requirements from multiple sources and prioritizes implementation of those requirements to ensure deployed forces have data required to perform their mission in a timely and efficient manner. Ensures users accessing IRRIS information have the appropriate credentials and manages the user community to ensure information security. Participates and provides technical guidance at Configuration Control Board (CCB) meetings and reviews all system changes.
Upon graduation from Ranken, I began my IT career as a web developer at a consulting company based out of Chesterfield, MO. Leaving there I made a transition into backend development and worked as a software engineer for the next four years. I now currently work as a computer scientist within the DOD. Some of the past companies in which I have worked for include: Oakwood Systems Group, GeoDecisions and Ross Technologies.
Ranken not only prepared me for my career, it prepared me for life outside of my career. I gained skills that cannot be taught. These skills were obtained through interactions with fellow students, professors, internship supervisors, and coworkers. Attending Ranken you had to meet deadlines, set goals for yourself in a variety of subjects and activities, and accomplish them. These experiences helped develop the individual that I am today.
Swip Systems provides something unique in business these days; individuals that care about our clients, get excited about your projects and can be proud of the work that they do!
Located 10 minutes from the St. Louis downtown area, we specialize in providing intelligent technology solutions to businesses of all sizes in many different industries.
Information Technology Alumni
Swip Systems Web Software Developer | 2010 Graduate
I currently work for SWIP Systems, a tech company that does a little of everything (mobile apps, desktop apps, network installation and maintenance and general IT support). A couple of our clients are the American Pool Players Association and Panera Bread. We are constantly getting new and fun projects to work on and the work environment is very fast-paced.
I had a job doing ASP.Net for Northrop Grumman on a contract for the Airforce two weeks before I even graduated. I stayed there for a year and a half and got a new job working in downtown St.Louis at a company called CPI doing C# and MVC development. After staying at CPI for a year I then got another department of defense job at Scott Air Force Base where I single-handily wrote a web application that all the of DoD uses to get distance and route data for all traveling DoD personnel. After working there for over a year I then found this new position I have currently at SWIP Systems. I plan to be here a few years at least.
While I was in class at Ranken I was doing as much as I could on the side to get experience and build a portfolio, and the experience working for people on the side was enough to give me confidence in my first (and only) interview to get my job right out of school. My advice to current students is to do whatever you can to make yourself stand out from the rest. While I do not think anyone would have a hard time finding a job since our area always has lots of opportunities for programming work available, it’s always good to be able to market yourself and make a companies want you.
With a history dating back to 1925, Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nation’s leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. Operating through a national network of offices, Alliant offers a comprehensive portfolio of services to clients.
Information Technology Alumni
Alliant UI Developer | 2011 Graduate
After leaving Ranken I began developing a CMS specialized for car dealerships. I used ASP.Net and SQL to write a system that allowed dealers to upload information about their inventory, as well as their business information. Shortly after that I began work contracting for Royal Canin, where I wrote WCF web services responsible for the ordering and invoicing their products sold by third-party websites, as well as aiding their team with implementing several Sharepoint web parts and company education intranet sites. From there, I began work at Cass Information Systems as a SQL/C# developer. I worked on large databases responsible for logistics data and analytics, as well as company software used to reduce paper and prevent loss of information throughout the billing and invoicing life cycle. Following that, I moved to San Diego and started work for Alliant Insurance developing the UI for Sharepoint 2013 and .Net MVC sites.
Ranken helped prepare me for a variety of jobs. I have worked on the front-end, back-end, and middle-tier using the diverse knowledge gained from attending school there. The Internet and Web Technology program has enabled me to span the full development spectrum throughout my career, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. I have never been without a job, and have always had the ability and knowledge to seize any opportunities that come my way.
Integrity is a web consultancy located on the Delmar Loop in University City specializing in all things web and general awesomeness. Integrity is extremely unique in that it is a completely flat organization (meaning employees have no bosses) and they hire team members that are passionate and eager to learn, rather than by the amount of experience they have on their resume. This philosophy fosters growth on an individual basis as well as on a team level by allowing each team member to step up and take responsibility on the projects in which they are involved. Integrity primarily works to build awesome things with awesome people who do what they say they're going to do.
Information Technology Alumni
Integrity Web Engineer | 2011 Graduate
Right after graduating from Ranken Technical College in 2011, I went to work as a Web Developer at The Net Impact in Chesterfield, MO. After 2 years I moved on to a Web Engineer position at my current company, Integrity.
My experience at Ranken can be described as very positive. Growing up I always had an interest in computers but it wasn’t until the introductory lesson in HTML during the operating system course that I discovered my passion for programming and the web. In addition to learning various programming languages, one of the greatest skills that I’ve obtained from Ranken was the ability to teach myself. Especially in web development, it’s not uncommon for an issue to arise in a language I’ve never worked in before, but I can trust myself to hit the ground running to reach an effective solution. In the past employers have recognized me for this ability as well my strong work ethic, another characteristic that Ranken emphasizes in its students.
Daugherty Business Solutions is a consulting firm like you’ve never experienced. We don’t simply prescribe technology solutions. We solve business problems for some of the largest organizations on the planet. We’re a vibrant culture of visionary thinkers and doers, all dedicated to helping your business th
rive. We know technology inside and out. But what truly sets us apart are our forward-thinking people and big picture approach to improving your business.
Information Technology Alumni
Daugherty Business Solutions Associate Consultant | 2012 Graduate
After graduation I was hired on by Daugherty Business Solutions, and have now been there for a little over a year and a half. During my time at Daugherty, I have worked at various companies including, Anheuser-Busch, MasterCard, and Express Scripts. I started out working in a QA Testing for Anheuser-Busch, and over the course of a few months I was transferred to a project for MasterCard, where I started doing some small development work. After my engagement at MasterCard I went back to Anheuser-Bush to work on another project where I was doing actual development, and it was during that project that I learned what it meant to be a developer in an enterprise environment.
During my time at Ranken, the most important thing I learned was perseverance. Things aren’t always going to go the way you planned, and you can either give up or push through and use what you learned and continue on with your life. Ranken also prepared me with the basic knowledge I would need to grow and develop my core programming skills. I also learned how to work with a group on the same code base, and exchange ideas.
“I believe that Ranken has allowed me to advance my career, more quickly than I would have with a degree from another two or four- year college. The hands-on experience I gained at Ranken has really set me apart from other candidates.”
Ranken’s 100 Most Successful Alumni
Information Technology Alumni
Graduating Class of 1997/2000, Architechtural Technology/Computer Networking Technology
Current Employment: KV Pharmaceutical Co. Project Manager/CAD Manager
After graduating Ranken in June of 1997, with an Associate Degree in Architectural Technology, Angela Parker began work for Sverdrup Facilities as a contract employee. Soon after, she was hired on as a full time employee, working closely with designers, architects, and engineers. Eventually, Angela found her temporary “niche” with the Interior Design Group, which was a great fit but, it was not long before she realized that she would hit the glass ceiling at a young age. With this in mind, Angela decided to broaden her horizons and return to school. At that time, computers were the way to go, so back to Ranken she went. Angela continued to work for Sverdrup part-time while attending Ranken for a second degree.
In August of 2000, Angela graduated from Ranken once again with an Associate Degree in Computer Networking Technology.
Upon receiving her new degree, she went to work for a small window manufacturing company in St. Louis, developing fenestration software. Eventually finding that this was not the field she most enjoyed, she contacted her previous supervisor to see if Sverdrup had any positions available that would allow her to utilize her unique combination of A/E/C and computer skills. Shortly thereafter a larger, global company, Jacobs Engineering, acquired Sverdrup and a position was developed specifically for Angela – Project Technology Coordinator. With this position came national responsibility to grow A/E/C Technology throughout the company, but required extensive travel.
In August of 2005, Angela accepted a position as CAD Manager at KV Pharmaceutical Co., allowing Angela to remain in St. Louis. In October of 2006, Angela married and is expecting a son in March of 2008.
Today, Angela remains employed as KV’s CAD Manager but has also taken on more responsibility as Project Manager, managing small construction projects throughout KV’s 15 facilities city-wide.
“My education & experiences at Ranken provided a solid
foundation on which I built
my career.”
architecture-alumni
Ranken's 100 Most Successful Alumni
Graduating Class of 1973, Architecture
Current Employment: Baker-Aicklen & Associates, Civil Engineer and Branch Manager
A. William “Bill” Waeltz put his architecture design and structural technology degree from Ranken Technical College to use upon graduation, taking a job as a draftsman and surveyor. He became a Registered Land Surveyor in three states.
Waeltz and his family, including his wife and three children, eventually moved to Austin, TX., where he passed both the Engineer in Training (EIT) and Professional Engineer (PE) exams.
Waeltz currently serves as a civil engineer and branch manager for Baker-Aicklen & Associates, a consulting engineering firm in Cedar Park, TX. He’s also the firm’s principal, and oversees a staff of 65 employees.
“My education and experiences at Ranken provided a solid foundation on which I built my career,” Waeltz said.
Waeltz is now considered one of the most influential engineers in his hometown of Round Rock, TX. He participates in several committees for the city and local Chamber of Commerce. He also serves as vice president and board member for the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
His wife, Sandi, is proud of Waeltz’s accomplishments as a “self-made professional.”
“Bill always prides himself in knowing all three phases of civil projects,” she said. “His knowledge of drafting from Ranken, along with surveying and engineering, has been a great asset as he manages the firm.”
"Without Ranken’s help I don’t think I would have done well at all. I had a wonderful career working for the United States Air Force and became an academic instructor for them. I thank Ranken for the skills I needed to succeed."
Ranken’s 100 Most Successful Alumni
Graduating Class of 1949 - Radio & TV
Current Employment: United States Air Force Academic Instructor (retired)
Allan Miller has led a life of service, both to his country and his community. Before attending Ranken he served from 1945-1946 with the U.S. Army. After his graduation in 1949 he went to work for the U.S. Air Force, working in the communications field as well as avionics. Eventually he was also an academic instructor. Miller retired from the Air Force in 1989 after 38 years of service.
Married in 1958, Miller spent the years prior to that on the construction of his own home from 1956-1958 – skills he still puts to use, as he recently rewired his son’s home and installed a new bathroom for him.
Miller has also been active with the Toastmasters organization, and has served as the president of the 496 Chapter.
Active with his church, Miller has served on its council and as treasurer of their endowment fund for five years. His skills with finances also contributed to his volunteering with the AARP to do taxes for their members for ten years.
He currently works part-time as an elected member of the Pontiac/William Holliday school board and resides in Fairview Heights, Ill. He retains his federal radio and telephone license to this day.
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2012
Architecture Alumni
Intern Architect, TXR Architects + Constructors
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn
“Choosing to obtain my Bachelor’s of Science in Architectural Technology from Ranken Technical College has played a big part in my success in the profession thus far. The excellent staff, hands-on experience and technologically driven program paved the way for me to further continue my education to the graduate level at SIU. When it came time to search for a job, employers were pleased to learn that I had attended Ranken because they know that students are challenged with a wide variety of courses, which helps lead to a successful career.”
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2014
Architecture Alumni
Architectural Technology Intern, Fox Architects
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Zach on LinkedIn
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2013
Architecture Alumni
Production Specialist, KAI design & Build
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Meghan on LinkedIn
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2003
Architecture Alumni Architecture Alumni
Senior Design Professional, HOK
XBachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2009
Architecture Alumni
Intern Architect, Fox Architects
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2008
Architecture Alumni
Intern Architect, Fox Architects
Contact: [email protected]
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2014
Architecture Alumni
Pathways Intern (Contracting), Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology
Ranken Technical College, 2009
Architecture Alumni
Revit Technician, BSA Lifestructures
Contact: [email protected]
Connect with Cecilia on LinkedIn
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Automotive Maintenance, Class of 1962
”Ranken training helped me succeed in my life by giving me a good foundation of training in my chosen field of Automotive Maintenance. It was through my Ranken education and the help of many other people that I was able to succeed in life.” Dean graduated from Automotive Technology in 1963 and quickly realized he wanted to start his own business. After working for a short period in a small automotive shop with a fellow Ranken graduate to gain experience, he began renting space in another building to begin his own business, Dean’s Auto Service. In 1973 he bought ground and built his own 5,200 square foot building. Over the years he hired and helped many Ranken graduates and others to succeed in their careers as auto mechanics. He continued building his automotive service company through the years, successfully meeting the needs of many repeat customers. He was also able to teach auto mechanics at Lewis & Clark technical school in St. Charles, MO for three years. In recent years, he has opted to turn over management of that business to employees and pursue other interests. Among those interests are several real estate properties which he has accumulated over the years and now works to lease and maintain. Dean has been greatly involved in the alumni association for many years and is an active supporter of Ranken. He is also a member of the Alumni Leadership Council and a former President of the Ranken Alumni Association.
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Industrial Electricity Class of 1960
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Automotive Maintenance Class of 1967
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Automotive Collision Repair Class of 1989
“My time at Ranken took me from being an 18-year-old kid who did not apply himself in high school to a man who knew that, if I would apply my God-given skills, with the proper training I could accomplish anything. I owe a lot to Larry Schmidt, who wasn’t just an instructor, but has become a friend and mentor since my graduation in 1989.”
After graduation in 1989, Larry went to work at Turks Auto Body as a collision tech and painter. After three years with Turks he went to Show-Me Auto Body, where he also worked as a collision tech and painter on collision-repair vehicles, as well as building street rods. Kelso then moved on to a position with Safeco Insurance Company as an automotive damage appraiser for two years.
His career then took him to his current employer, Azko Nobel, where he has held several positions in his 14 years of service, including Account Representative, Technical Representative, Sales Manager and his current position of Account Manager. Larry stays involved with Ranken, and currently serves on the Alumni Leadership Council.
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Architecture Class of 1995
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Plumbing Technology Class of 1990
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Carpentry Class of 1994
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Information Technology Class of 2007
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Automotive Maintenance Class of 1956
“Every career and organizational accomplishment that I have been privileged to enjoy has been due to the outstanding training of Ranken Technical College.”
Bill Rueckert has had a career span of 40 years in his field of automotive maintenance technology, with two import automotive manufacturers/distributors: Volkswagen Mid-America, Inc. and American Suzuki Motor Corporation. He has had 41 years of continuous membership in the Automotive Technicians Association (A.T.A.), including 12 years as president.
He has 30 years continuous A.S.E. Master Registered Technician certification. He also participated in two Ranken Commencements, 1985 and 1986, where he delivered the commencement addresses. Bill has been both mentor and employer of four successful Ranken graduates while he was the warranty manager at Volkswagen Mid-America, Inc.
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Precision Machining Technology Class of 1960
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