Maria Cax-Perez
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Maria Cax-Perez’s interest in mechanical engineering began when she observed machine operators at her first job after high school. Witnessing these operators take their ideas and turn them into something physical ignited her curiosity and passion for the field, especially the hands-on aspect of the work. She chose 果冻传媒 Technical Community College for its affordable path to a mechanical engineering degree, where she gained essential skills for a successful career.
“My experience has been good at 果冻传媒 Tech. I live far away, so I mainly come here for my classes and do what is needed. Sometimes we work on drawings or make something in AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Then on manufacturing days, that’s when we make the actual part we had been designing.”
Since beginning her studies at 果冻传媒 Tech, Cax-Perez has remained determined to obtain her degree. Commuting from Sussex County to attend classes at the Stanton Campus, she initially decided to leave her previous job so that she could focus on her coursework. Her sacrifice and commitment paid off when she walked across the graduation stage at the spring 2026 Commencement ceremony.
“Since I began my classes here, I’ve found that I’ve been able to talk more and have learned not to be afraid of speaking as I was in the past. The College has small class sizes, so you get to know people. With their support, I’ve gained more confidence, knowing that I can do whatever I set my mind to.”
Throughout it all, Cax-Perez greatly valued the advice of her advisor, who motivated her to stick with her studies and focus on obtaining her degree. After graduation, Cax-Perez plans to go on vacation in Guatemala before looking for CAD operator jobs close to where she lives.
“My advice to new students is not to be scared and to have faith,” said Cax-Perez. “I'm鈥痑 religious person, so when I face challenges, I ask God for guidance and then work to make everything happen.”
