Email - Counseling@midlandstech.edu

Fred Roberts, Midlands Technical College

Class of 2001

Interviewed by Beth Zambrano

Student Employment Services

Frederick Roberts had a plan and having a plan is critical to success. Fred is a 2001 graduate of MTC, earning an Associate in Science – Math and Science Concentration. However, the plan began after high school. Fred joined the military when financial resources for college were depleted, but his plan still propelled him toward his long term goals.

Fred joined the military with a desire for work-based skills and as a way to pay for his education. After serving approximately five years in the Army, Fred recognized the need for getting a college education, both while in the military and after. He continued to pursue and complete his education step by step in order to build his foundation for professional success. He credits MTC with instilling in him academic skills and preparation through a rigorous curriculum for his present accomplishments. MTC strengthened his time management, writing and logic, enabling him to earn his AS degree, and continue on to Columbia College where he earned a BA in Computer Information Systems. Fred is nearing completion of his MS in Management Information Systems with Strayer University. At that point he hopes to see a return on his investment as he prepares to move into higher managerial roles.

As a Media Resource Specialist II at Midlands Technical College, Fred is responsible for ensuring that the college uses properly designed systems to provide the best instruction, with the greatest ease of use by our faculty and staff. He’s been involved in researching state of the art technology, making recommendations, implementing and training employees on the use of an array of audio-visual equipment for the college. Helping others, “seeing their eyes light up when figuring out how to work the equipment” and knowing that this technology is impacting thousands of audience members each year makes for a great job.

Fred emphasizes that friendly customer service, multi-tasking skills and the ability to professionally relate to others are just as important as the technical skills. He also shares that creating a solid support base of strong relationships, including a “family plan” makes achieving your goals much easier. For Fred, that included schedule-juggling with his wife to ensure quality time with his young son. He also attended classes year round, while still making time to travel and enjoy deep sea fishing.

Fred believes that in order to succeed you need a plan, discipline and determination. Controlling your destiny, resisting outside influences that may sway you from your path and keeping your eye on the long-term rewards make professional growth attainable.