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MEXICO: Student earns internship at Tesla

Student from Don Bosco Technological Institute in Saltillo earns internship at Tesla

MEXICO

(MissionNewswire) Pedro Eduardo Valdés Sierra, a mechatronics engineering student at the Don Bosco Technological Institute in Saltillo, Mexico, earned an internship at Tesla in California. Sierra credits his education at the Don Bosco Technological Institute for his chance to work in the United States.

“Working while studying is a commitment and requires a great responsibility,” explained Sierra. “I thank the Don Bosco Technological Institute for supporting me and allowing me to have this great experience. Doing my internship abroad is a great experience. In the United States, I can continue to get an excellent level of learning, as well as new challenges to face.”

During his internship, Sierra will collaborate on a project to install and improve electrical systems and pneumatic and hydraulic controls. He will also be able to help update and adapt various automation systems and integrate new production lines.

Sierra added, “Everything is different at Tesla. There’s a lot of planning. It’s a great work culture.” Sierra is now having a chance to put the classroom lessons he learned into practical hands-on experience. He believes this is a wonderful opportunity for academic, professional and human growth.

Don Bosco Technological Institute was built more than a decade ago and has experienced significant development. More than 1,000 students attend courses as part of a program culminating in a bachelor’s degree in technology. Through workforce development initiatives such as assistance with résumé-writing and interviewing skills, the technical school also helps students find and retain stable employment upon graduation.

“The school’s programs respond to the local need for technical skills training by providing high-quality training courses, which is very much appreciated in a region known for its industrial activity,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Through coursework and internships like at Tesla, students leave the technical school with the professional skills and aptitude necessary to excel in the workforce.”

The state of Coahuila’s business community has rallied around the technical school, becoming an integral support to its students. Salesian missionaries working at the school have made connections within the business community to help students make an easier transition from the classroom into the workforce. Employers are impressed with the level of technical skill of the school’s graduates and also their employment preparedness.

Close to 52 million people in Mexico lack access to education, health care, transportation and the most basic necessities such as food and shelter. Youth in the country face a higher rate of poverty at more than 53 percent, which accounts for 20 million children and adolescents, with 5 million of those living in extreme poverty.

Salesian missionaries in Mexico primarily direct their efforts toward the country’s at-risk youth, including girls and young mothers. Creating safe havens and improving educational opportunities are essential to deter youth from life on the streets where they are susceptible to drugs and gang violence.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Mexico – From Saltillo to California: a success story

Salesian Missions – Mexico

UNICEF – Mexico