May 8, 2024
If you were to visit the Electronics Technology program on the Poplarville Campus this spring, you may come to believe that the family that studies together succeeds together. That is precisely what Robert Taylor and his children, Destiny and Robert, Jr., have been doing for the last two years.
Taylor gave up the idea of a college degree while balancing multiple jobs and supporting his young family as a 19-year-old in Pascagoula. He saw an opportunity to shift gears in his career at Amentum at Stennis Space Center from being a maintenance machinist to an electronic technician position. His mother’s encouragement was a key motivator for him to pursue his degree at the age of 46.
His daughter, Destiny, had left her original path of becoming a math teacher to return to PRCC for a more technical field. He and his son were both interested in electronics, so college became a family affair.
“When I got to university it was a lot more than I expected, so I decided to do something else,” said Destiny Taylor. “I decided to try something else and figured I might as well just try what they were doing, and I like it.”
Electronics Technology prepares individuals to support electrical engineers and other professionals in designing, developing, and testing electrical circuits, devices, and systems. Successful students enjoy problem-solving and learning by doing.
“I like the hands-on stuff you do in the program,” said Robert Taylor, Jr. “Using the robots is really fun, and I like putting components on a board and soldering.”
Taylor shared that his son has always been someone who enjoys working with his hands.
“Outside of school Robert has always been hands-on,” said Taylor. “He helped me build a home solar system, helped run electrical through conduit, and works in the mechanic shop.”
During this school year, Destiny has been interning at Amentum and Robert Jr. has worked in the mechanic shop. They are eager to enter the workforce after graduation.
Instructor Vic Cerniglia strives to prepare his students for the workforce. Graduates of the program can be found across the globe, whether at an oil field, working on weather buoys, or even the FBI.
“The Taylors have shown their skills and knowledge — learning to be successful in any direction they choose to go,” said Cerniglia. “It has been a pleasure having this family in our program and seeing them advance their knowledge to carry on into the workforce.”
The three family members agree that their experience at The River has been wonderful. Destiny has enjoyed her time pursuing two degrees so much that she would welcome the opportunity to become an instructor in the future. Robert Taylor, Jr. may come back for Instrumentation given that some technicians have both certifications.
“The instructors are genuinely kind-hearted and always have our best interests in mind,” said Taylor. “They were patient and went above and beyond to help us understand our coursework.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to share this educational journey with my children. It’s a testament to the power of family support, perseverance, and God’s help!”
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Article and photography by Laura O’Neill.
