Abigael Jones Secures Her Future In Mechatronics Before Graduation

Abigael Jones didn’t follow a typical college path, and that’s exactly what led her to success.

Today, she’s a CFCC Mechatronics Engineering Technology student, getting ready to graduate with multiple credentials and a full-time job already lined up.

Getting Started in High School

Abigael first discovered mechatronics engineering while she was still in high school after moving to Hampstead.

“There was a table that had little robots on it. I was like, ‘oh that looks cool,’ because robotics has always been a part of my life.”

That moment led her to CFCC’s mechatronics program as a dual-enrolled, Career and College Promise (CCP) student, where she was able to get a head start on her educational journey.

“I finished my junior year of high school with a mechatronics certificate.”

Learning by Doing

One of the biggest reasons Abigael chose mechatronics was hands-on learning.

“I have learned that I like fixing things a lot better than I like making new things.”

She enjoys figuring out how things work and solving problems.

“I’ve always been kind of like, ‘well, how does this work, and what can I do to fix it?’”

A Job Before Graduation

Through the program, Abigael connected with Corning’s Technician Pipeline Program (TPP), which helps students move straight into the workforce.

“They pay for your two-year degree, and they pay you a 40-hour a week salary. In the TPP, you are guaranteed a job.”

“I’ve been guaranteed a job for the last two years. Now that I am graduating, I’m starting the job I’ve been training for.”

After graduation, she’ll begin working full-time with Corning as a technician.

Choosing Her Own Path

Abigael knew early on that a four-year university wasn’t the right fit for her.

“I’ll be honest, four years scared the crap out of me. I don’t want to be shipped away for college.”

At CFCC, she found a path that kept her engaged and connected to real-world work.

“It’s nice. I come here and do stuff, and then go to work and do the same thing.”

During her time at CFCC, Abigael earned more than just one degree.

“I think I’ll be graduating with like five different certificates, which is really cool.”

Advice for Future Students

For anyone thinking about mechatronics or the trades, Abigael keeps it simple:

“I would just say do it. It was the cheapest option for me, and now I’m making more money than I ever thought I would.”

She also encourages others not to be discouraged, even in fields where there may be fewer women.

“I just say do it.”

As she prepares to graduate on May 8, Abigael is already stepping into her career with confidence.

To learn more about CFCC’s Mechatronics program, visit cfcc.edu/mechatronics-engineering-technology/