Metallica Scholar overcomes challenges, will earn two degrees

Once new Metallica Scholar Erik Simcoe began working in the industrial field, he discovered a new fascination with robots and the inner workings of machinery. With some encouragement from coworkers who had attended ECTC, he decided to gain the skills and training for a high-demand career.

“I guess I have a knack for it,” he said. “The guys at work spoke highly of ECTC’s program and I’ve discovered that myself. Every one of the teachers has been so helpful. I can contact my advisor at any hour of the day, and she will go above and beyond to help.”

Simcoe, a father of an eight-month-old son, has had to overcome some challenges to get where he is today – including a 10-year drug addiction. He said working and having things to look forward to has helped him stay sober for more than four years.

“If you had asked me five years ago if I would be about to graduate with two college degrees, I would never have thought it was possible,” he said. “Right now, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Assistant Professor of Electrical Technology Dylan Barnes touts Simcoe’s ability to be consistent and maintain a positive attitude in class while also working full time.

“Eric has overcome some issues in his past that many fail to overcome and distance themselves from,” Barnes said. “His hard work and dedication to bettering himself for a brighter future has been displayed in the classroom during his time at ECTC. He is someone I have enjoyed having in my lab areas.”

For Simcoe, earning the Metallica Scholars Scholarship shows him he’s on the right track.

“Earning the scholarship means a lot,” he said. “The fact that someone nominated me means even more.”