Heather Wheeler, Account Executive - Johnson Controls, Inc.

B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Virginia Tech, Blacksburg VA.

I would like to encourage more women to take an interest in the engineering field because the career paths are virtually unlimited. My career centers around working with other engineers and contractors to help design safe environments for my customers. It is exciting because I use my technical knowledge but I am not focused solely on the technical aspect. 50% of my day is spent communicating and getting to know other individuals on a business and personal level. Each day is different and I'm constantly learning. I encourage more females to consider engineering and take the Air Conditioning classes offered in Guilford County Schools. These classes give a great overview of careers in the Air Conditioning industry and positions each student for a solid career. The world is always changing but no matter what the change- engineers will always be needed.

"Jesse has greatly benefited from this program. In fact he has found his career path. The classroom/lab is filled with tools for learning heating, ventilation, and air conditioning design by actually building HVAC components.

The apprenticeship opportunities made available through the program are really great! The students not only make money but more importantly they get good experience for their résumé's and make important professional contacts. It's a wonderful program."

Karen Eubanks, mother of Jesse Lee

Jesse Lee

Northeast Senior High 2001

Todd Sauls

Western Guilford Senior High 2002

When I began my apprenticeship, I realized that my teacher had taught me a lot.. All of the "bookwork" fell right in place with the onsite training. I couldn’t believe how the people I worked with knew the importance of explaining what they were working on . I have learned so much in just one summer in commercial, residential, and business ethics. Each technician involved me like I was their partner, letting me get hands on experience, getting me my own set of tools to work with, involving me in real business meetings, and simply letting me represent Central Carolina. I can’t thank Bill Corriher enough for giving me this great opportunity as well as the experience in working in the field. The technicians involved me in troubleshooting and solving the problems. I really feel like this is the field I want to stay with. Central Carolina helped me make that decision.