Members of the astronomy and engineering clubs recently met with OCCC graduate and professional engineer Shelby Webb, who shared her journey from student to aerospace engineer. Webb currently works as a maintenance, repair and operations engineer for Pratt & Whitney, a company that manufactures commercial and military aircraft engines.

Returning to OCCC’s engineering lab, Webb spoke about her academic path, career milestones and lessons learned along the way. Both clubs took away one key message: Seeking and offering help is essential to thriving in challenging courses.

Coming from a family with deep military roots, Webb spent her childhood traveling the world with her father, an aircraft mechanic. She told students that some of her fondest childhood memories involve the sounds and smells of airstrips – especially oil and engine fuel. Although she initially trained in ROTC with hopes of joining the Air Force, she was later denied entry. Still, her fascination with aviation endured, leading her to shift her focus from electrical work to aerospace and mechanical engineering.

Webb credited mentorship and communication with professors as crucial to her success as a student.

“Something I always tell students is that I introduced myself to every single one of my professors on the first day of class,” she said. “I didn’t ask, ‘How do I pass your test?’ or ‘How do I pass your class?’ I asked, ‘How should I prepare for your class?’ That first impression makes a huge difference.”

After her presentation, students gathered around to ask Webb questions about the engineering field, ranging from when to pursue professional certification to which colleges offer the most rigorous degree programs.

Leaders of both clubs said they plan to host more sessions like this one, giving students opportunities to learn from professionals in their fields.