Some future members of Texas’ workforce are ready to put their newfound knowledge to use around the state.

Texas State Technical College honored its summer graduates on Thursday, Aug. 19, with a virtual celebration. TSTC Chancellor and CEO Mike Reeser celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments with a video message.

“Throughout your time at TSTC, you strengthened yourself with the skills needed to make your life better and for those that matter most to you,” Reeser said.

Andy Weaver, TSTC’s interim provost in West Texas, said graduates are ready for a new journey.

“We know that a new journey awaits you, and that’s the journey on the road to your career and profession you are seeking,” he said.

Graduates from the Abilene, Breckenridge, Brownwood and Sweetwater campuses thanked several people with messages posted on social media following the virtual celebration. Many graduates thanked their families and instructors.

Stormi Ortiz, who received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling, knew who motivated her to complete school.

“I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to my family and friends who encouraged me to reach for my dreams, especially my children — you both will always be my motivation to succeed in life,” she said. “Without each of you, this journey wouldn’t have been possible.”

Caden Amos, who earned a certificate of completion in Welding Technology, credited TSTC for preparing him for a job.

“After this program, I am ready for the real-world welding experience,” he said.

Brenda Charma, one of several Nursing students who received an Associate of Applied Science degree, summed up graduation with a simple expression.

“What a journey it has been,” she said.

Before the virtual celebration, graduates could pick up a graduation “swag bag” that included a TSTC diploma cover and travel mug.

Registration for the fall semester is underway. Scholarships are available. For more information, visit tstc.edu.