“UTPB’s program gave me in-depth knowledge and tools to succeed in the manufacturing industry.”
–Lucus Rubio, online BS in industrial technology graduate
A recent alum of UTPB’s online Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology program, Lucus Rubio puts in a 60-hour work week as a maintenance technician in the aerospace industry. Still, the San Antonio resident generously took time to discuss the unique benefits of our online industrial technology program, its relevance to his career, and the advancement opportunity he experienced immediately upon graduating.
UTPB’s Distinctive, Accessible Online Industrial Technology Program
Rubio did some comparison shopping for his undergraduate degree program, but he found what he was looking for at UTPB. “It was the only school with a fully online industrial technology program,” he said. [Note: UTPB offers the only online BS in industrial technology program in the UT System.]
But, as Rubio explained, the online format was only part of the appeal: “When I called [UTPB] to get help, I asked a lot of questions. I was paying for the program out of my pocket, so I just wanted to be very clear of my expectations. Everybody was very helpful there.” This was not typical, as Rubio found.
“[Other schools] didn’t have a lot to explain about their program. They didn’t seem enthused to sell it. They didn’t sound confident in the program.”
An Industrial Technology Degree With Immediate Professional Relevance
Rubio quickly found our industrial technology program highly applicable to his field. “In my industry, it’s a lot of measurements and calculations. Heavy data analysis, part conformity, things like that. A lot of the project management [curriculum] was crucial from the degree. That class was really beneficial as far as structuring the projects I have. And from an engineering perspective, [too], because you’re dealing with clients like SpaceX and experimental [technologies] and prototypes. These people want results.”
“The Quantitative Decision Tools class was helpful since it covered earned-value analysis and asset depreciations. A lot of the course was specific to aerospace manufacturing and materials engineering. We discussed forming, shaping, conditioning, deconditioning—everything related to materials and composites, which I work with. The course had a big impact on my career and me.”
A Rigorous, Rewarding Program That Encourages Initiative
Rubio was pleasantly surprised by the rigor of the BS in industrial technology. “The hardest classes were actually the most beneficial throughout the program. A lot of times [faculty elsewhere] kind of walk you through it.”
“[With] this program, I didn’t rely on something like that. I was aware of what I was expected to do. And once I got into some of the material, it was definitely over my head. But you know, that’s what the program’s designed to do—to make you think and learn.”
This is not to suggest that Rubio couldn’t get help if needed. “Each professor provided the tools throughout the course of the class,” he explained. “They encouraged student interaction. They made the platform available for students to discuss questions first among themselves before they reached out to the teacher. They encouraged you to do as much as you can on your own.”
A Career Goal Within Reach
Rubio is significantly closer to securing that engineer position since earning his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. “I’ve met with the directors of our quality department, our director of manufacturing engineering, and our director of operations, who is my maintenance manager as well. He understands my capabilities and my work ethic. I’m on a six-month program, where I start a manufacturing engineering internship, and after April 2025, I would be able to start [in a manufacturing engineering role].”
An Invitation and Advice for Prospective Falcons
Does Rubio recommend UTPB’s online industrial technology program to others? “For sure. I’ve told other people where I work right now [about it].” And he offered some succinct advice to colleagues and all prospective applicants: “Be prepared to read to succeed.”
Join Rubio in earning a degree that can help you achieve your career goals in manufacturing engineering and a broad range of other fields. See online BS in industrial technology details, request more information, or apply here!