FORT WORTH, Texas \u2014 Fatima Coronado says Tarrant County College greatly impacted her success by enhancing her knowledge and putting her on a career path she loves. She selected TCC for several reasons \u2014 multiple campuses from which to choose, including one close to home; great education programs; class size; affordability.<\/p>\n
And her timing couldn\u2019t have been better.<\/p>\n
In 2019 voters approved an $825 million bond proposal focused on building, improving, renovating and equipping the campus with technology essential to training the region\u2019s future workforce. The project brought many professional opportunities, including an internship for Fatima, who was majoring in construction management technology.<\/p>\n
Buoyed by Instructor Keith Thomas\u2019 recommendation, she interned for Jacobs Engineering, the company providing program management. They assembled the bond team. Her internship began in September 2023, and she assisted both TCC Northwest and TCC Southeast.<\/p>\n
That she performed well was no surprise to Thomas, who praised Fatima\u2019s abilities in class. \u201cHer academic achievements reflect her intelligence, hard work and ability to effectively apply her knowledge to real-world scenarios.\u201d<\/p>\n
As for her interest in construction management, she \u201ccommunicates effectively, works well independently and part of a team\/group, and approaches tasks with enthusiasm and a positive attitude.\u201d He said he has the \u201cutmost confidence in her ability to excel in any role she undertakes.\u201d<\/p>\n
In turn, Fatima credits Thomas as jump-starting her academic growth. She appreciated his availability to assist students with projects and offer advice.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe used real-life examples from the construction industry to demonstrate how we could apply our learning in practical situations,\u201d she said, adding that Thomas connected with students by using positive reinforcement and encouragement. \u201cThroughout my time at TCC, I noticed that graduates would often come back to visit and share their personal work accomplishments.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fatima now has her own accomplishments to share. Following her graduation in fall 2023 with an Associate of Applied Science degree, she again became a bond project team member. She works as an assistant project manager for CARCON Industries & Construction, a subconsultant to Jacobs, and is based at TCC in the Offsite District Multipurpose Center.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would recommend TCC to anyone considering it,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s a great option. The classroom sizes allow students opportunities to create great relationships with professors and classmates.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pathway:\u00a0Business & Industry<\/a><\/p>\n Campus:\u00a0South<\/a><\/p>\n