MT Magazine March/April 2025

FEATURE STORY

MARCH/APRIL 2025

29

While applying for school, Carrasco explored the Paying for College section of the school’s website. “I was browsing through scholarships because nothing good is really cheap, so any financial help would be appreciated,” he recalls. “I saw the Metallica Scholarships and applied, and I was overjoyed when I won because it was a good amount. I tell people, ‘Hey, I got a scholarship from Metallica,’ and they’re like, ‘No way!’” Now 26, Carrasco earned his associate degree in automation, robotics, and mechatronics in December 2024. He currently works for a company maintaining automation equipment, and he plans to keep pursuing a career as a roboticist and possibly earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. As a next step, he says, “I may also go back to the College of Lake County because they offer certifications in C++ and Autodesk and SolidWorks CAD programming that would build my skillset until I figure out what career works best for me.”

Community College Connections The United States needs millions more students like Carrasco, and the need in Lake County alone would surprise many. Lake County is the second-largest manufacturing county in Illinois. Nearly 51,000 workers – one in seven residents – are employed in the manufacturing sector, and manufacturing supports 31% of the county’s economy. Manufacturers generate $12.2 billion in salaries and benefits, and Lake County manufacturers have an economic output of $35.7 billion a year. “To be successful as a county, as a state, and as a country, we must focus on manufacturing,” says Dr. Lori Suddick, president of the College of Lake County (CLC). “Community colleges ensure that there’s a skilled talent pipeline available for our local industries. Our students promote economic growth and community vibrancy through their educational achievements. More broadly, community colleges serve as conveners to bring an ecosystem together.” Currently, CLC enrolls nearly 20,000 students at its three