Mayra Segura

Triton College student Mayra Segura, Chicago, is excited about the limitless opportunities a technology degree will provide. With her education, Segura is poised to excel not only at her current company, Asteroid Precision, but also in her future endeavors.

“At the beginning of my educational journey at Triton, I was so scared,” said Segura. “I thought the engineering and technology field was more for men than women. After meeting Triton’s instructors, I realized I could do it.”

Segura grew up in Mexico and came to the United States when she was 26. She said it was difficult coming to the United States, because she had to learn the customs, culture and language.

After learning English, Segura began working at Lexco Cable Manufacturing in Norridge. The company encouraged her to attend Triton to obtain a certificate in computer-aided design (CAD) to gain further knowledge.

“Lexco opened a door for me and I decided to go for it,” she said.

After obtaining her certificate, Segura felt inspired to continue her journey and decided to pursue an associate degree in technology.

“I came to Triton just for a certificate, but I decided to stay for an associate degree,” said Segura.

Today, Segura works at Asteroid Precision in Wheeling, where she oversees floor inspections. With an associate degree on the horizon, she plans to go even further – aiming to pursue a bachelor’s degree and possibly a master’s degree.

“Triton is giving me the tools to finish (my coursework), especially with support from Antigone Sharris (chair of Triton College’s Engineering Technology Department),” she said.

Segura said Antigone is “incredible,” and will go over and beyond to help her students. “Mayra is a hardworking student with a lot of skills,” said Sharris. “Like many of our students, she is considered ‘nontraditional.’ Our curriculum is designed to work with the working adult while being cost effective.”

Segura admitted that it is ‘difficult’ to balance a full-time job, school and a family, but the encouragement she has received from Triton has given her so much motivation. “I’m excited about my future opportunities,” she said.

Triton College’s Engineering Technology curriculum offers two-degree tracks: Mechanical Designs and Mechatronics (Robotics). There are four stackable certificate programs that contribute to these degrees. Both tracks include courses that develop skills in fundamental and advanced drafting and design, utilizing various 2D and 3D CAD systems and incorporating lean principle. Triton’s state-of-the-art facilities, programs and certificates set students up for success.