For Arianna Terakedis, choosing her hometown campus at at Tuscarawas to pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering technology not only allowed her to stay close to home and save money but set her on the path to follow a dream that was sparked when she was just 12 years old.
Her journey began at the Tuscarawas County Dale Lauren Foland Manufacturing Camp, a three-day exploration into the world of manufacturing for Tuscarawas County middle schoolers. The camp introduced Arianna to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and provided tours of local companies, planting the seeds for her passion for engineering.
“I toured places like Gradall, Allied Machine and Provia, and even got hands-on experiences with flight models from FliteTest. It opened my eyes to the incredible opportunities right here at home,” Arianna said. “This experience inspired me to pursue a degree in engineering. But more importantly, it showed me the true wonders of local manufacturing. It showed me that the area I live in does have its place in not just national markets, but international markets. It ultimately inspired me to stay local and not move away.”
When it came time for Arianna to choose a college, Kent State Tuscarawas was the clear choice. Already familiar with the campus from her College Credit Plus classes as a Claymont High School student, she felt right at home. Staying local meant she could keep her part-time jobs, live at home and save money — all while receiving a quality, hands-on education.
Her decision paid off. Today, as a senior engineering technology student, Arianna is actively contributing to local industry through her internship at Gradall Industries, a company she dreamed of joining since her camp days.
"I used to think I needed to leave home to find success. Now I know that's not true,” she said. “The opportunities are right here — I see that now, and I’m so grateful for the people and experiences that got me here."
She credits the Manufacturing Camp and Kent State Tuscarawas for showing her the beauty and potential of staying close to home.
Kent State Tuscarawas Engineering Technology Director Paul Dykshoorn, who mentors both camp attendees and engineering technology students, emphasized the importance of the Manufacturing Camp to the future of local manufacturing companies.
“The Manufacturing Camp serves as a pathway to engineering for young students,” said Dykshoorn. “Students come away from the camp realizing they can have exciting and fulfilling careers right in their hometown.”
According to Dykshoorn, the demand for engineering graduates by area manufacturing companies is high.
“Currently, local manufacturers project the need to fill over 1,000 new technology positions in the next few years,” said Dykshoorn. “With our small class sizes, affordable tuition and internship opportunities, now is a good time to get the training needed for careers in engineering like Arianna has done.”
Arianna's story is a testament to the power of local community programs and the importance of accessible, affordable education. Her journey exemplifies how passion and determination can lead to an exciting and successful career, right in your own backyard.
As Arianna said, “The opportunities are endless!”
The Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology program at Kent State Tuscarawas is under the umbrella of the College of Applied and Technical Studies. The program focuses primarily on the applied aspects of science and engineering and includes four concentrations:
- Electrical/Electronics
- Green and Alternative Energy
- Integrated Engineering Technology
- Mechanical/Systems
In addition to the bachelor’s degree, associate degrees in electrical/electronic engineering technology and mechanical engineering technology programs are available at the Tuscarawas and Trumbull campuses. A unique 2+2 Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology degree designed for transfer students who have earned a qualifying associate of science degree is also offered.
To learn more about engineering technology degree opportunities at Kent State Tuscarawas, visit www.kent.edu/tusc/engtech and www.kent.edu/cats.