James Radjewski graduated high school three years ago and is already managing computer networks and maintaining servers for a Fortune 500 company after Macomb’s Career Services placed him there on a cooperative education (co-op) assignment.
“My co-op placement was a risk for me to take because I knew I would be jumping into more than just networking,” says Radjewski, a student in Macomb’s Information Technology – Networking Specialist program. “Thankfully, I took that chance and it has showed me career paths I did not know existed until I got behind the scenes of a large corporation.”
Radjewski is employed at Meritor, Inc., a global supplier of drivetrains, brake systems and other components for commercial vehicles. He has been there one year and works full time with duties that include configuring, calibrating and diagnosing electrical control systems. He is also taking evening and online classes at Macomb as he progresses towards dual associate degrees in Informational Technology and Electrical Engineering.
“I have enjoyed my time at Macomb and the opportunities it has given me to expand my knowledge in my fields and take classes that work around my schedule,” says Radjewski. “Career Services, especially, has helped me build my resume and make myself presentable in a competitive field.”
The co-op placement that Career Services helped him secure has a notable spot on that resume. It has also given him the confidence to explore ways in which he can broaden his career expertise.
“My experience at Meritor has been amazing. It has really showed me what it is like to be self-motivated and how to manage my career professionally and effectively,” says Radjewski. “It has provided me a great opportunity to grow with the company and explore every avenue of my education.”
Radjewski began attending Macomb after he graduated from Lakeview High School in 2015. He started out in Information Technology – Networking Specialist, but began adding electronics courses to the mix so he could better understand the electronic circuitry that is the backbone of automated control systems.
“I use what I was taught at Macomb every day at my job,” says Radjewski. “I plan to increase my knowledge in my field and continue growing with Meritor. I want to continue my career with Meritor and see how far my education and experience can take me.”