Successes | Tri Star Career Compact (en-US)

We are proud of our Tri Star program graduates. Our students have gone on to successful careers locally and nationally. They are helping to fill the skilled labor shortage and making a valuable impact on their community. We call them our "Tri Stars". Read how their education at Tri Star helped lead to their current career. Tri Star can do the same for you.

NOTE TO Tri Star graduates: Contact us to add your Tri Star success story here too. We'd love to feature you.

Kenadie Ervin: Teaching Professions, 2025

Tri Star Program: Teaching Professions
Program Location: 7655 State Route 703
Tri Star Instructor: Mandy Diller
High School Graduate: Fort Recovery (2025)
Career Field: Teaching Professions
Post-Graduation Path:
* Previous employment included working at Sunshine Boutique, working as a nanny, and helping teach eighth grade religion.
* Employed as a substitute and served an internship with Holy Haus
* Earned an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a major in administration through the University of Cincinnati Online
* Co-owner and teacher/administrator of faith-based Divine Little Ones Learning Center (preschool).

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "I chose to attend Tri Star because I’ve always had a love for kids and teaching and watching other teachers and playing pretend teaching ever since I was a little girl. So, when I had the opportunity to go to Tri Star, I thought I would give it a shot and it was the best thing that has happened to me. It was so fun. I learned a lot, but it was laid-back and I would encourage anyone to go to Tri Star.

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career?

"Tri Star prepared me for my career by helping me through college. I felt like everything I learned, it then came easier in college to understand because they didn’t really explain it like Mrs. Diller did.”

Rya Buschur: Graphic Communications, 2025

Tri Star Program: Graphic Communications
Program Location: 7655 State Route 703
Tri Star Instructor: Heather Arling
High School Graduate: St. Henry (2025)
Career Field: Graphic Communications
Post-Graduation Path:
• Previously worked as an office assistant for Buschur’s Refrigeration for four years
• Currently pursuing an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a major in administration through the University of Cincinnati Online
• Employed part-time as a teller at St. Henry Bank
• Co-owner and teacher/administrator of faith-based Divine Little Ones Learning Center (preschool).

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "I chose to attend Tri Star because I am a hands-on learner and so I knew that Tri Star would be perfect for me!”

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career? "Tri Star gave me hands-on experience in problem-solving, creativity, and working with technology. That directly prepared me for my career. Learning simply about computers, printers, and websites in class has been invaluable since so much of my work as a teacher and administrator is now all found online. Even our preschool’s branding and logo came from a class project I created at Tri Star. I feel this shows how my Tri Star Program still has impacted me so much even though it wasn’t the field I chose.”

Krista (Burrows) Huber: Med Prep, 2014

Tri Star Program: Med Prep
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Janet Nelson
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2014)
Career Field: Medicine

Post-Graduation Path:

· Tri Star Career Compact Med Prep 2012-2014 (won a SILVER MEDAL in the NATIONAL SkillsUSA Medical Terminology Competition, Kansas City)
· Employed at Otterbein Senior Lifestyle Choices, St. Marys (as needed).
· Attended Xavier University Fall 2014: pre-med
· Employed by Xavier University, part-time Biology Laboratory Assistant
· Attended University of Cincinnati Fall 2015: pre-med. Earned a Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences and minor in psychology in 2018
· Attended Kettering College 2018-2020 where she earned a Masters of Physician Assistant Studies
· Employed three years as General and Trauma Surgery Physician Assistant (PA-C) at Lima Memorial Hospital
· Currently employed as a PA-C on the Auglaize and Mercer General Surgery team with Dr. Lance Bryant at the Grand Lake Health System

Krista won a SILVER MEDAL in the NATIONAL SkillsUSA Medical Terminology Competition, Kansas City

“Receiving that silver medal was a moment I will never forget. None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for deciding my sophomore year to do Tri Star.”

“Med Prep taught me more helpful and useful information in two years than my high school classes did in four.”

“Before starting the Tri Star program, I was not sure what I wanted to do with my future. During high school classes I was either bored or asking myself when am I ever going to use this, but in Tri Star I was always intrigued and curious about what was in store for tomorrow. Not only did Tri Star teach me about different career options, how the human body functions, and medical terminology, but it also broadened my leadership skills and dedication.

“Tri Star has impacted my life in so many ways, and I will always remember my days in Med Prep.”

Logan Hamrick, Welding, 2014

Tri Star Program: Welding
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Todd Smith
High School Graduate: Celina (2014)
Career Field: Manufacturing

Post-Graduation Path:

Graduate of Tri Star Career Compact's Welding program.
Employed at Crown Equipment Corporation (Celina) on the (automation system) production line as a welder after high school graduation.
Completed robotics training.
Moved to the position of Process Tech where he learned to program automation systems to help weld lift trucks.
Accepted and have been in current position as a manufacturing engineer at Crown for roughly a year.

Tri Star drove me in the direction to apply at Crown. I had no idea what kind of job I wanted. Being able to learn and help teach others is what makes my career at Crown so great. If I had not attended the Tri Star program, I may not be as successful as I am today.

Tom Burden, Engineering Tech. & Machine Trades, 2009

Tri Star Program: Engineering Technology/CAD (Senior year) and Machine Trades ( Junior year) (currently called Precision Machining)
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. for Machine Trades and Celina High School for Engineering Tech./CAD (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Rob Menker (Machine Trades) and Jon Clouse (Engineering Tech/CAD )
High School Graduate: Celina (2009)
Career Field: Mechanical Engineering

Post-Graduation Path:

• Joined the U.S. Air National Guard working as an F16 mechanic
• Attended the University of Toledo, earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Invented the Grypmat, a non-slip,flexible tool mat
• Appeared on Shark Tank and walked away with a deal with three celebrity sharks: Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, and Richard Branson
• His Grypmat Tool Mat has appeared on the cover of Time Magazine
• Founded Grypshon Industries
• Listed in Forbes 30 Under 30
• Continues to invent and make public appearances

In 2025 Burden showed Lt. Governor Jim Tressel his invention, the Grypmat, during a tour of the Tri Star facility.

“With Mr. Menker’s teachings I learned how to build what I envisioned and with Mr. Clouse he gave the foundation of getting my vision in a digital form, the first step in bringing it into reality.”

“Mr. Clouse and Mr. Menker were my two Tri Star teachers, both amazing at what they do.”

Amber (Brannon) Zaricor: Graphic Communications, 2010

Tri Star Program: Graphics Communications
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Lisa Allmandinger Donovan
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2010)
Career Field: Graphic/Web Designer

Post-Graduation Path:

2012 Graduate of School of Advertising Art (now The Modern College of Design), Kettering, Ohio
Birdsong Creative, Nashville, Tennessee — graphic/web designer
Silicon Valley, California (working remotely in Nashville) — graphic/web designer
Copperheart Creative - Owner, Creative Director
Amber Zaricor Inspirational Entrepreneur (speaker and podcaster)

Visit her websites/businesses here: Copperheart Creative or Amber Zaricor

"When I showed the president of the college my portfolio filled with class projects from Tri Star, I was accepted on the spot. After beginning my two-year journey at SAA, I realized just how much Tri Star had helped me hit the ground running with the basic skills that some of the other students hadn't acquired yet."

"Reflecting on my Tri Star experience, although at the time it was hard to leave my friends for those half-days at my home school, I realized later that while I've lost touch with some of those friends, Tri Star placed me on the path to become a better, more successful designer."

Mitch Knous, Machine Trades, 2010

Tri Star Program: Machine Trades (Currently the Precision Machining program)
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Rob Menker
High School Graduate: St. Marys, 2010
Career Field: Precision Machining/CNC

Post-Graduation Path:

Attended Rhodes State College and earned an Associate Degree in Manufacturing Engineering
Employed with Knous Tool and Machine as a Manufacturing Engineer
Employed at Tri Star Career Compact as the Adult CNC/Machine Trades Instructor
Currently employed at Tri Star Career Compact as the (secondary) Precision Machining Instructor

"Tri Star helped me get a good feel for what I wanted to do in the world of manufacturing. Attending Tri Star provided me a real-world experience which influenced my career path after graduation."

Doug Bertke, AutoCAD (Computer Aided Drawing), 1992

Tri Star Program: AutoCAD (Currently the Engineering Technology program)
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Jon Clouse
High School Graduate: Coldwater (1992)
Career Field: Engineering

Post-Graduation Path:

- Attended Lima Technical College (now Rhoades State College) in the Mechanical Engineering with Design program and received an Associates Degree of Applied
Science in 1994
- First full-time job: Tool Designer and Wire EDM Operator at High Tech Wire.
- After a couple of years, moved to Hardin Creek Machine & Tool as a Tool Designer and Wire EDM Programmer and Operator and then took a position as a
Maintenance Technician at Safeway Packaging.
- In 1997, started at Pax Steel Products as a Tool Designer and CNC Programmer.
- Worked way up to Product Engineering and began designing agricultural equipment.
- In 2002, Pax Steel was purchased and became Val-Products. Continued work in Engineering, and also worked in the Technical Support Department and eventually
became Technical Support Manager. After several years in the Technical Support Department, moved back into Engineering and became a Product Engineer. Continue
working in this position today, designing complete product nesting, heating, and other systems for the agricultural market.

- In addition to my full-time career, I took an interest in getting involved in the community and in 2003 I ran for and was elected to the Coldwater Village Council. I served several terms on the Village Council with my last term ending 2019. I was then elected Mayor of Coldwater and began my first term in 2020.

"Tri Star gave me the knowledge and confidence to prove my abilities to allow me to better myself and become who I am today. The AutoCAD program in Tri Star was so advanced that the training allowed me to test out of several courses in college. The Tri Star program taught me to look at things from different perspectives which allowed me to be more creative. It also taught me to take the time to look at things, study them, and think before creating. The interaction with students in the same area of interest as me allowed me to learn to work more with others with different perspectives and this is something that continues to help me today."

Luke Zink, Welding, 2007

Tri Star Program: Welding
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Todd Smith
High School Graduate: St. Marys (2007)
Career Field: Manufacturing Engineering Welding/Automation

Post-Graduation Path:

Graduate of Tri Star Career Compact's Welding program
Employed at Auglaize Erie and Machine during senior year of high school
Following graduation, hired at Crown (Celina) as a welder
Advanced his career as a process tech, MEI, MEII, and now senior ME
Hired to teach Tri Star's adult FANUC robotics instructor
Earned certifications in AWS, CWI, CRAW-T, and is a certified FANUC instructor

“Tri Star built the foundation of my career and I have confidence in my abilities to succeed and grow in my field.”

Mark Hopf: Engineering/CAD, 2005

Tri Star Program: Engineering/CAD (Currently Engineering Technology)
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Jon Clouse
High School Graduate: Celina (2005)
Career Field: Mechanical/Engineering/Plumbing and HVAC Design

Post-Graduation Path:

Attended Ohio Northern University 2005-2009, earned Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Summer Internship Fanning Howey Associates, Celina – June 2007-August 2007
Employed at Prater Engineering Associates Inc., Dublin, Ohio – July 2009-January 2012
Employed as a Mechanical Designer at Fanning Howey Associates, Inc., January 2012-present
He is a registered engineer in six states and a Certified Energy Manager.
Helped design the mechanical systems for the new (and award-winning) Tri Star Career Compact facility.
Promoted to Mechanical Discipline Director at Fanning Howey Associates, Inc. in March 2021. He leads Fanning Howey’s team of mechanical engineers in Indiana and Ohio.
Serves on Tri Star’s Engineering Advisory Board and Wright State University Advisory Council.

"Tri Star has given me an edge. Tri Star taught me the basics of engineering drafting and advanced my engineering skills while in high school."

"Tri Star helped me get my internships with Fanning Howey Associates. I was able to walk in the door my first day of work and start working right away because they did not need to teach me how to use AutoCAD or how to draft. To this day, I still use the basics I learned while in the Tri Star class as coworkers look to me to help them troubleshoot issue they are having."

Nathan Huber: Biomedical and Electronics Technology, 2014

Tri Star Program: Biomedical and Electronics Technology (Formerly the electronics program and currently the REC Tech program)
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Jerry Kohnen
High School Graduate: St. Marys Memorial in 2014
Career Field: Electrical Engineering

Post-Graduation Path:

· Tri Star Career Compact Biomedical and Electronics Technology 2012-2014.
· Earned ISCET Electronics Systems Associate – Levels 1, 2, 3, & 4, ETA Customer Service Specialist, and West Central Ohio Manufacturing Consortium: Intermediate Level at Tri Star.
· Worked as an Electrical Engineer Intern at Coldwater Machine, Coldwater, OH
· Graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology and minor in Robotics and Automation
· Employed as an Electrical Engineer at Coldwater Machine Company
· Employed as an Systems Engineer at Crown Equipment Corporation

“Tri Star helped me find a great job as an electrical engineer intern after high school that I am continuing to work at while attending the University of Cincinnati.”

“The Electronics Class was the highlight of my high school career. These instructors will help you and guide you throughout your choices on colleges and careers. They still continue to update me on job openings in the area for electrical engineers. I remember coming an hour before class and staying an hour after just to work on projects with Mr. Kohnen. The instructors are extremely selfless and are always willing to help the students. “

“This is an amazing Career Compact. I would not be where I am today without the help of Jerry Kohnen and the other instructors here. Words cannot describe how grateful I am to have gone through this program.”

Brett McGillvary, Construction, 1989

Tri Star Program: Construction
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Dave Borger
High School Graduate: Celina (1989)
Career Field: Construction

Post-Graduation Path:

Immediately after graduating from high school secured employment in residential construction
Worked in commercial construction building restaurants
Employed in construction with Shinn Brothers for 20 years
Fall 2018: Began teaching the construction program for Tri Star Career Compact

"I got into the field after graduation and I've done it ever since. Now I'm teaching students like I once was in the trade that they can use their whole lives."

Aaron Schmitt, Career Based Intervention, 2009

Tri Star Program: Career Based Intervention
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Brian Stetler
High School Graduate: Celina, 2009
Career Field: Welding

Post-Graduation Path:

Welder/Fabricator at Monterey Fabrication

Vantage Career Center - Adult Education - Basic and Advanced Welding, AWS SMAW D1.1 Certified

Nidec Minster Corporation (8.5 years): Journeyman Welder (5 years), Quality Assurance Coordinator - Machine/Fabrication Dept. (3.5 years)

Hobart Institute of Welding Technology: Certified Welding Inspector and Magnetic Particle/Dye Penetrant Inspection
Additional Training/Certifications:

Certified Quality Management System Auditor
Certified Quality Management System Administrator
Blueprint Reading, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, and Metrology
Statistical Quality Analysis

Tri Star’s Welding Instructor, 2020

Currently attending the University of Toledo for career technical education certification

"Career Based Intervention taught me a vast array of skills and concepts that aided not only my career, but also my personal life. I learned essential skills, such as how to prepare for an interview and write a resume. How to balance a checking account and do my taxes. We learned what to expect in our working lives and got the opportunity to apply those ideas by going to work during school hours. I learned work ethic and time management philosophies that I apply to my daily life to this day."

"The time I spent in Tri Star’s Career Based Intervention class was some of the most valuable minutes of my high school education."

Brian Hess, Automotive Technology, 2003

Tri Star Program: Automotive Technology
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Harry McPheron / Jim Dorsten
High School Graduate: St. Henry (2003)
Career Field: Automotive Technology, specialization in Mercedes Benz

Post-Graduation Path:

Graduate of Tri Star Career Compact's Automotive Technology program
Graduate of Universal Technical Institute majoring in auto and diesel
Completed the Mercedes Benz Elite Factory Training Program
Mercedes Benz Master Certified Diagnostic Technician / Team Leader for Mercedes Benz of Easton, Columbus, OH (almost 10 years)
Diagnostic Technician for Brinkman Service, Minster (6 years)
Hired as Tri Star’s Automotive Technology Instructor, Summer 2020
Currently attending the University of Toledo for career technical education certification

I am a firm believer in Tri Star, and specifically their Automotive Technology program that I graduated from in 2003. The education I received set the foundation for my entire automotive career. Tri Star helped teach me to set goals, and then how to work towards achieving them. The programs allow you to grow the skills and the right attitude necessary to be successful in your chosen career. When I continued my education after high school, I felt that I was more prepared than my classmates, both in the technical aspects of automotive and in basic employability skills. I can not recommend Tri Star enough, the lessons I learned by attending helped shape my career years after graduation.

Jon Plattner, Tool and Die (Precision Machining), 1999

Tri Star Program: Tool and Die (Precision Machining)
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Greg Freewalt
High School Graduate: New Bremen (1999)
Career Field: Tool and Die

Post-Graduation Path:

Employed at local factory
Employed at Cotterman & Company, Inc. first as a roof technician learning how to install industrial and commercial roofing systems.
Worked up through the company and started performing roof evaluations and now employed in sales and marketing.

“The Tri Star program has helped me in many ways from attending class and learning a skilled trade that has been very helpful with my career path in the construction industry.”

“After graduating high school I was employed at a local factory and I decided this was not for me so that’s when I had the opportunity to start working at Cotterman & Company, Inc. With my strong work ethic and attending Tri Star I have found a career path that I enjoy working in every day.”

Gary Bronson, Auto Mechanics, 1986

Tri Star Program: Junior Combustion Engines and Senior Auto Mechanics
Program Location: Originally the class was held in the Ed Complex in what is now the Celina City Schools Print Shop. It was subsequently moved to the wing at Celina High School before moving into the new Tri Star building on State Route 703.
Tri Star Instructor: Harry McPheron
High School Graduate: Celina (1986)
Career Field: Automotive and Diesel Technology

Post-Graduation Path:

Attended Lincoln Tech. in Indianapolis, IN. for two years majoring in Auto Diesel Truck Technology. Graduated 1987
Worked for 18 years at Airborne Express repairing ground support equipment. Was lead mechanic overseeing a crew of 13 mechanics.
Worked at Serco maintaining a fleet of over 50 pieces of equipment used in the electrical distribution industry.

- Currently employed as the Industrial Diesel Mechanics Instructor at Great Oaks School District: Laurel Oaks Campus. I've been there seven(7) years preparing 11th and 12th grade high schools students for a career in the trucking/heavy equipment industry. I also serve as the SkillsUSA advisor.
- Attended Wright State University, Dayton, OH for three years to earn Career Technical Education Licensure. Completed in 2014

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star?
"Just like most of my present students, I am a hands-on learner. While a Senior [in high school], I was able to go on work placement at Northmoor Marina and put those skills to good use. Being outdoors and around boats has always been a passion of mine."
How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career?
"Tri Star gave me the foundation and skills needed to start a career in a field that I love."

"I definitely recommend Tri Star. Chase your dreams and get a jump-start on your career! You never know where the skills you learn may take you."

Brent Tippie, Welding, 2005

Tri Star Program: Welding
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Todd Smith
High School Graduate: New Knoxville (2005)
Career Field: Welding
High School Career Path: Worked for Albert Freytag in Minster as a junior in high school

Post-Graduation Path:

Employed at MS Welding, Maria Stein
Employed by General Dynamics, Lima, OH
Served in the United States Army National Guard in Afghanistan, 2011-2012
Graduated from Hobart Institute, Troy, OH 2014
Employed at Precision Strip, Minster, OH 2014 - 2018
Tri Star Career Compact's Welding Instructor, St. Marys, OH2018-19 and 2019-20
Employed by General Dynamics (again), Lima, Summer 2020

"I was able to learn a skill that has always been in demand and will continue to be."

"The greatest benefit has always been that I was employable straight out of high school and never had the debt of college tuition hanging over my shoulders and I thank Todd Smith for that."

"I knew early on that a four year university wasn't going to guarantee me a good job or set me apart from anyone else."

"I was taking drafting in high school and on my sophomore visit to Tri Star; I spent the morning welding and decided that this was what I wanted to do!"

Kelsey Prenger: Graphic Communications, 2013

Tri Star Program: Graphic Communications
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Lisa Allmandinger Donovan
High School Graduate: St. Henry (2013)
Career Field: Graphic Design

Post-Graduation Path:

Attended School of Advertising Art (now The Modern College of Design) for two years graduating in 2015. Major: Applied Business in Advertising Art (Graphic Design).

Employed at Crown Equipment (New Bremen) for 2 1/2 years. Worked on crown.com, managing assets and designing webpage layouts for new products and additions. Also supported print design (brochures and branding) as well as video (concepting/storyboarding and social media animations).

Hired in December 2017 to work for the Warner Music Group out of Nashville, TN. Employed as an interactive Web Designer responsible for designing websites and other digital collateral for the artists signed to Warner Music Nashville, which include Blake Shelton, Brett Eldredge, Cole Swindell, Chris Janson and many more.

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "Having the opportunity to gain an education on something that would help prepare me for college and have the potential to give me scholarships was a no-brainer!"

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career? "Taking Graphic Communications was my first exposure to graphic design, which many people don't experience until college. So I was able to get a head start in learning the [computer] programs and improve my skill set. Taking the program also was a way to confirm that yes, this is really what I want to do for my career, which is HUGE."

"Everyone has heard the saying, "Practice makes perfect." If you're thinking about a career in graphic design, taking Tri Star's Graphic Communications will give you TWO YEARS of practice. That's two years of education that many people don't have until college."

"Tri Star is for ANYONE who has an idea of the career they wish to pursue after high school. When I was in high school, a lot of people thought Tri Star was just for the people who weren't as book smart. I was very academic and wanted to take all of the challenging classes that would get me the diploma with honors; however, I knew that taking Tri Star would give me valuable skills and exposure that would prep me for my career, rather than the highly technical physics equations I would learn and never use."

Don Ballinger: Electronics, 1986

Tri Star Program: Electronics
Program Location: Dennings Vocational Building, St. Marys (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Ron Snider
High School Graduate: Celina (1986)
Career Field: Electronics

Post-Graduation Path:

Attended Wright State University - Lake Campus for two years, took Electronic classes only.
Worked at Pifer Communication repairing phone systems.
Worked at North West Telephone. Started doing repair work on phones and answering machines and then worked up to going out and working on systems in homes and businesses.

For the past 25 years I have been the president and owner of NuWave Technology, Inc.. I take care of everyday business and help our technicians with installation applications.

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "Always liked to mess with circuits and make something happen with electric.”

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career? [Tri Star] “Gave me the foundation to do a lot of the low voltage work we do today.”

Would you recommend your Tri Star program to current high school students? “Yes”, “My son Dalton Ballinger is in his senior year now and has been accepted to go to UNOH after he graduates.”

Stephanie Ebbing: Computer Support Technology, 2006

Tri Star Program: Computer Support Technology
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Brian Stetler
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2006)
Career Field: Computer Support Technology

Post-Graduation Path:

Employed part-time at NuWave Technology while attending high school.

Attended Wright State University - Lake Campus and Columbus State Community College for two years, majoring in Business Administration.

Worked at Ohio Physical Therapy Association (Columbus, OH) as Continuing Education Coordinator
Formerly employed at NuWave Technology in sales, marketing, customer service, project submittals and fire alarm designs.

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "Honestly, I don't remember exactly. I was working at NuWave Technology at the time and I believe it was recommended that I attend. I'm glad I chose to attend Tri Star."

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career? Tri Star prepared me for my career by allowing me to do a work study program [Early Placement].

"For those not wanting to do a traditional 4-year (and plus) degree and are hands-on learners, Tri Star should be a serious consideration."

"I would not be where I'm at if it wasn't for Tri Star. I'm thankful for this opportunity."

Dan Hemmelgarn: Electronics, 1993

Tri Star Program: Electronics
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Building (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Ron Snider
High School Graduate: St. Hentry (1993)
Career Field: Electronics

Post-Graduation Path:

Employed at NuWave Technology as a technician for 24 years. Work includes phone installation, paging installation, wireless internet installation and service work

Why did you choose to attend Tri Star? "I did not want to go to college, but wanted to learn a career field."

How did your Tri Star program prepare you for your career? "It was hands-on and classroom studies. Everything new that comes out in the technology field, you have to learn about it before you can install it and understand how it works."

"If you are not looking to go to college, it is a great way to learn a field and get hands-on experience."

Destanie Stocklin: Graphic Communications, 2015

Tri Star Program: Graphic Communications
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Ryan Turnmire
High School Graduate: St. Marys Memorial (2015)
Career Field: Graphic Design and Web Design

Post-Graduation Path:

• Attended the School of Advertising Art (now The Modern College of Design), Kettering earning a degree in Applied Business in Advertising Art
• Currently employed at Atomic Interactive as a graphic designer and web designer. My position includes working on layout and style for sites, adding content and making sure a website is functional. I work on logos and do other design work for our clients. I am also a photographer and have done photos for our personal site as well as for client sites.

"Tri star dabbled into so many different areas of the field and at the time I didn’t think I would use half of them but I am so glad I was taught what I was so that I was aware of all the things in this field and I now know how to do them all."

"I knew I wanted to go to college and I knew I liked art so I chose graphic communications to be able to touch on art and find a college where I could do what I love for a living."

Adam Clark: Welding, 2013

Tri Star Program: Welding
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Todd Smith
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2013)
Career Field: Welding

Post-Graduation Path:

• Entered the workforce after graduating from high school.
• Currently employed at Crown as a welder.
• Joined the National Guard and continues to serve as a specialist.

Adam credits much of his success to Mr. Smith, his welding instructor.

“Tri Star gave me the skills I have today as a welder and helped me get a great job right out of school.”

“My career path was very clear and filled with success. Hardly any bumps in the road and constantly improving myself.”

“I have had nothing but success in my life since becoming a Tri Star graduate and owe everything I have to my experience with the Tri Star program”

Ryan Schott : Med Prep, 1998

Tri Star Program: Med Prep
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Janet Nelson
High School Graduate: Celina (1998)

Career Field: Firefighter/Paramedic - Shawnee Township fire Department - assigned to C-Shift since 1999

Post-Graduation Path:

• Volunteer: Celina Fire Department 6 years
• 36 hour volunteer Fire class and EMT basic class while in high school
• 10 month paramedic program
• Ohio Fire Academy-Level 2 Firefighter
• Columbia Southern University-Associates Degree in Fire Science
• Training: Fire Instructor; Haz-Mat Technician; Weapons of Mass Destruction Specialist;
Confined Space Rescue Technician; Recue Technician; Industrial Fire Training

“The Med Prep Program gave me two years of medical related training to better prepare myself for my future. The greatest part was the job shadowing we did each year. This solidified my choice to become a Firefighter.”

“I have known what I wanted to do since an early age. Going to a 4-year college was not an option for me. At the time there weren’t many Associate Degree programs in the area for Fire/EMS. The risk vs reward of the cost of college to today’s job market is not very good for many job fields. Vocational programs I believe are the way to go. “

Randy Kunk: Machine Trades, 1988

Tri Star Program: Machine Trades
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Greg Freewalt
High School Graduate: Coldwater (1988)
Career Field: Precision Machining

Post-Graduation Path:

• 1988-1995 - Machinist at Hardin Creek Machine and Tool
• 1995-present - Machinist at Coldwater Machine
• 25 years of on-the-job training

Other:
*Randy has been an active member of the Tri Star Advisory Board since 2007
*Randy served as a member of the Coldwater School Board

Tri Star: “It gave me the skills and training to start my career.”

Janea Evers: Graphic Communications, 2012

Tri Star Program: Graphic Communications
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Lisa Allmandinger Donovan
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2012)
Career Field: Graphic Design

Post-Graduation Path:

• 2012-2014 School of Advertising Art, Kettering Ohio Associate Degree of Applied Business
• 2013 Summer Intern at Totally Promotional, a division of Casad, Celina Ohio
• 2014 Summer Externship at Totally Professional, a division of Casad, Celina, Ohio
• 2014-Present: Digital Designer at Totally Professional, a division of Casad, Celina, Ohio

“Tri Star really helped me get my foot in the door.”

“I am so thankful to have the opportunity to test out graphic design before I spent the time and money on a degree (Bachelor’s) in the field. It also helped to know the basics of the Adobe programs when starting college, giving me more time to better my skills.”

Amy Welling: Early Childhood Development and Education, 2004

Tri Star Program: Early Childhood Development and Education
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Bonnie Dahlinghaus
High School Graduate: Coldwater (2004)
Career Field: Early Childhood Education

Post-Graduation Path:

Bachelor's Degree from Wright State University in Early Childhood Education
Master's Degree from Wright State University in Reading

"I loved all the hands on experience in the Head Start classrooms that we received."

"Right now I am just happy teaching at Coldwater where I would like to gain a lot of teaching experience. Someday I would love to teach education classes to college students."

"I currently teach 3rd grade at Coldwater Elementary."

Joe Rose: Construction, 1990

Tri Star Program: Construction
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Dave Borger
High School Graduate: Coldwater (1990)

Career Field: Construction and electric

Post-Graduation Path:

An adult electrical class at Vantage Career Center
Electrical classes at Edison State
Apprenticeship with Ohio Plumbing and Electric

Self-employed contractor and owner of Rose Construction and Electric – since 1995

Tri Star Advisory Board Member since 2008

Joe has hired other Tri Star graduates and provides his crew with continuous training to stay current with this ever-changing field

"Tri Star gave me the basic knowledge and comfort to go out, compete for a job and excel above others. It has helped me to become a leader in this business and community."

Emily (Bruns) Baucher: Early Childhood Development and Education, 2001

Tri Star Program: Early Childhood Development and Education
Program Location: Celina Education Complex (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Bonnie Dahlinghaus
High School Graduate: Celina (2001)
Career Field: Early Childhood Development

Post-Graduation Path:

Rhodes State College 2001-2003 Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Development
Stepping Ahead Learning Center, classroom teacher
Council On Rural Services
2009-present Full-time Library Aide-Celina City Schools Primary Building

"I loved all the hands on experience in the Head Start classrooms that we received."

"I found Bonnie Dahlinghaus' Early Childhood Development program very beneficial. After being in her class the first year, this helped reconfirm that I wanted to go into the education field. I found it very beneficial that Mrs. Dahlinghaus gave us the opportunity to write and carry out preschool lesson plans in the Head Start classrooms. I highly recommend that if you are thinking about going into the education field that you try out Mrs. Dahlinghaus' class (Tri Star's Early Childhood Development and Education) your junior year."

Neal Link: Engineering/CAD, 2001

Tri Star Program: Engineering/CAD
Program Location: Celina High School (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Jon Clouse
High School Graduate: Celina (2001)

Career Field: Mechanical Engineering

Post-Graduation Path:

Mechanical Engineering Technology Program at the University of Toledo
Graduated with four year degree

Neal works full time as a Project Engineer at Wayne Trail-A Lincoln Electric Company in Fort Loramie, Ohio

"Tri Star really helped with kick-starting my knowledge base in the area of mechanical drawing. Through the Engineering Program at Tri Star, I learned how to use AutoCAD, a software application for 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting."

Michelle Stout: Med Prep, 2010

Tri Star Program: Med Prep
Program Location: St. Marys Dennings Vocational Bldg. (at that time)
Tri Star Instructor: Janet Nelson
High School Graduate: St. Henry (2010)
Career Field: Nursing

Post Graduation Path:

Michelle attended Wright State University Lake Campus taking her general education classes while in high school participating in post-secondary options as well as taking classes the summer before beginning classes at Rhodes State College in the fall of 2010. Most of her general education classes were completed during high school and two summers at Wright State University Lake Campus allowing her to graduate in two years. Michelle is currently working full time at Coldwater Hospital as a Registered Nurse and training to be an ICU nurse. She is attending The Ohio State University for BSN and will graduate in May of 2014.

Michelle was able to take one of the Tech Prep seats available at Rhodes State College which helped accelerate her acceptance into her medical program.

Due to Michelle taking advantage of post-secondary options while in high school and taking summer classes, she was able to finish her nursing degree in two years and she is debt free.

Michelle credits her mother, St. Henry High school counselor Greg Kulwicki and her Tri Star Instructor, Janet Nelson for their help and guidance

"I have already started my career and my friends who did not attend Tri Star are still in college."