ECC Manufacturing Student Turns Classroom Skills into Career Growth

When Ryan Reid enrolled in an Industrial Manufacturing Technology (IMT) course at Elgin Community College (ECC), he wasn’t starting from scratch, as he was already working at Jeniko in South Elgin. But with the encouragement from his manager, Reid took the next step to build new skills and quickly began applying what he learned on the job.

Before enrolling at ECC, Reid’s role at Jeniko focused on assembling boxes and hardware kits. Today, thanks to hands-on training and industry-focused instruction, he’s gaining technical and safety skills that open the door to more advanced opportunities in manufacturing.

A 2023 graduate of  Hampshire High School, Reid enrolled in ECC’s introductory IMT course, where he built confidence working with tools, machines, and safety procedures.   

“I learned about safety equipment and the operations of machines, and how to operate a machine safely and check the machine before working on it,” Reid said about his IMT class. 

Reid began his journey at ECC by taking several ECC classes in conjunction with District 300's life skills program called “300PLUS” about two years ago. This program supports students with disabilities ages 18 to 22 as they move from high school into independent living and the workforce. 

“Students in this program learn independent living skills and vocational skills,” said Pietrina Probst, director of ADA, Student Access & Disability Services at ECC. “Students in the program have graduated from high school, but their high school offers this additional program after they graduate from high school to support them in their transition goals.”

The first class Reid took serves as an introductory course in IMT.

“The course aims to build a solid technical foundation, reinforce safe work habits, and develop the practical skills and attention to detail necessary for entry-level roles in machining and manufacturing,” said Umberto Tinajero, instructor of IMT and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM).

Reid said he thought Professor Tinajero was great, and he enjoyed working on group projects during the class. He hopes to learn more machinist skills in the future, but knows he will receive more training at Jeniko. 

Tinajero said Reid demonstrated exceptional dedication, focus, and professionalism in the class. The skills he learned in class helped him develop the ability to safely operate shop equipment by following procedures and industry standards, he added. Reid also learned more about machining processes like setup practices, filing, and drilling operations. 

“Ryan was not only a strong individual performer but also an excellent team player who contributed positively to group work and learned from his peers,” Tinajero said. “He showed a genuine commitment to continuous learning, new concepts, and applying them effectively in hands-on projects.”

He adds that he’s confident Reid will continue to grow and bring meaningful contributions to his role at Jeniko. 

Looking to build skills that manufacturing employers value? ECC’s programs connect classroom learning directly to the workplace. Start your journey at elgin.edu/mtc.