Michael Ratcliff is an Operator Technician for EverGrain, a company that has untapped the potential of nutrient-dense barley and transformed it into a world-class protein and fiber that meets the needs of food and beverage brands around the world. Michael graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ranken’s Control Systems Technology program in May 2021. He served an internship with EverGrain while earning his degree. “My internship was great!” he says. “I could directly relate my daily tasks at EverGrain to lessons learned in the classroom. It boosted my confidence and convinced me I had chosen the right career path. Securing contracting work with EverGrain after graduation was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up!”
Michael dreamt of going to college but felt the expense would bar him from realizing that dream. He tells us, “Thanks to the scholarships I received from Ranken, local scholarships I sought in high school, and WIOWA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding, I got a full ride to college minus a few textbooks. I’m very fortunate for this generosity and my efforts in class paid off.”
Alex Kraemer, Merchandise Specialist, Anheuser-Busch InBev, explains “Michael recently joined EverGrain Ingredients as a technician. His ability to address a wide variety of challenges shows the breadth and depth of his education. He arrives everyday with the belief that results matter while displaying the courage to maintain a safe and inclusive work environment. The operations team chose Michael to conduct multiple trips to our manufacturing facilities in New Jersey. He is contributing to their success while bringing back best practices to our St. Louis facility. He continues to develop his technical and manufacturing skills by training new employees and taking on new assignments in a dynamic business environment.”
Sal Francis, Electrical instructor, tells us “Michael was an excellent student. He was genuinely interested in learning the subject material. He helped many of my evening students succeed because of his teaching abilities as a tutor.”
Learn more at https://ranken.edu/find-your-career-path/