Some Assembly Required A MAGAZINE OF MORRISON TECH ALUMNI | SPRING 2019
A Year For Expansion The new year provides us a time to reflect on opportunities in our lives to give thanks. A time to look toward Expansion of your career, family, or personal goals. It’s also a great time to recognize the sense of family within Morrison Tech. We are constantly amazed by the reach and passion of our Morrison family. This may be recruiting recent graduates, welcoming new Morrison Tech hires to your community or simply reaching out to those in your graduating class. As we look towards a new year we continue to look towards more growth opportunities at the college. The past year will be summed up with one word; Innovation. This upcoming year will be known as a year of Expansion. The continued Expansion of our curriculum, of our facility and most important of all; the Expansion of our Alumni network. Each year we graduate Morrison Tech students who are welcomed into a another family at the college. We hope someday they, as with all of you, will reflect on the transformative time spent here.
HShilling, Inc CEO/Solutions Architect
H. Sean Shilling Class of 1989
Morrison Tech was for me the right fit at the right time 30-plus years ago. I graduated in 1989 with an Associates Degree in Architectural Building Technology. Back then, technology was just being used to accelerate processes. Computer Aided Design and Drafting was in its infancy but was so cool to me! Morrison Tech was one of the first schools to offer software like AutoCAD and Intergraph. On top of that, “school” was not my thing. I did not like to sit in class, listen to a lecture, go back home and do my homework, and repeat the process every day. Morrison Tech was the exact opposite. You still had some homework and had to go to classes, but classes were small, and were a lot more hands-on! I still have in my drawing’s briefcase my first set of house plans that I drew at Morrison Tech. How cool is that? Instructor Impact at Morrison Tech The one-on-one relationship I had with Morrison Tech professors was great! They were always there to help. They wanted students to understand how they applied skills to their lives. Since all the teachers were local to the Morrison, IL area, everyone knew everyone else. Coming from the huge suburbs of Chicago, I found this fascinating. My high school graduating class was 500-plus. Students were lucky if a teacher even knew their name, but this was not the case at Morrison. Also, teachers knew people in the community and even helped me find local jobs, like at “Wilson Greenhouse and Florist.” As a result of that job, I met my wife of 27 years. Together, we have three wonderful kids. Expanding Opportunity Early after graduation, I was in Texas using CADD to work on the drawings for what the US hoped to be the world’s first Superconducting Super Collider in Waxahachie, Texas. I also worked on huge interstate tunnels for the expansion of Detroit International Airport. However, my most important projects were supporting and connecting CADD systems. My education at Morrison Tech and the extensive use of technology early in my career has allowed me
to challenge/expand my IT skills and build my most rewarding project, the creation of HShilling, Inc. Earning our Microsoft Silver Partnership this year was icing on the cake. We specialize in offering consulting services using Microsoft Dynamics/Office 365 products. Educational Investment My ROI (Return on Investment) has to be greater than 200 to 1 since attending Morrison Tech. I am sure tuition has gone up since I attended. Between the length of the program at Morrison Tech (a year and a half), which I loved, and the cost of tuition, my MT education has provided for my family and me far beyond what I ever could have imagined. As a direct result of the foundation of education and skills I learned at Morrison Tech, my family and I have been truly blessed. Morrison Tech’s Impact My jacket for “Morrison Institute of Technology” still hangs in my closet. It has the original initials of MIT before the brand changed to “Morrison Tech.” To this day, I still tell everyone that I went to MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), joking, of course. I get a good laugh from the people I meet. Oh and if you haven’t been keep track through the above bio the following are highlights. 200 to 1 ROI Traveling the world from Hawaii to Europe and beyond My wife and three kids My own company HShilling, Inc. Nothing is guaranteed or handed to anyone on a silver platter in this great country. Many people feel they are entitled to success, but success is earned and never guaranteed. I can tell you, I lost my way a few times along my journey since Morrison Tech. But those experiences were good reminders that hard work and determination have never let me down. When one door closed, another door opened! May you and your friends and family find the same adventures in this journey we call “Life.”
Rockwell Automation Power Technical Consultant
Matt Darby Class of 2002
Upon graduation from Morrison Tech I completed a five year electrical apprenticeship and became a master electrician. I worked in industrial plants around the QUAD city IL area. After completing my apprenticeship I started working on my bachelors degree, which I finished in 2011. I decided to try something new but wanted to stay in the industry, so I went to work for electrical wholesale distribution as an account manager. I worked in distribution until 2014 when I relocated closer to Chicago and took a management job with ROCKWELL Automation. I currently assist with the management of 20+ million worth of power and control product business across Northern IL. Morrison Tech was the right combination of book work and hands-on training. The teachers were always helpful and the class sizes were small. and engaging. This experience gave me the confidence to take on new challenges and acquire new skill sets.
Shive-Hattery, Inc Civil Designer
Zachery Knapp Class of 2009
Thank you for helping jump start my career in Civil Engineering! I couldn't have done it without the help from all the great teachers and classmates at Morrison Tech! As a commuter I didn't get to spend much time with my fellow students outside of the classroom but nevertheless I had a great time going to school here. The teachers did a great job at preparing us for our careers. I have recommended Morrison Tech to a number of people and I would absolutely choose to go here again. I'm currently a Civil Designer at Shive-Hattery. The majority of my work is designing and modeling sites or roadways and creating construction drawings for various clients. I've worked on quite a few exciting projects already. One project I worked on was modeling one of the largest subdivisions to be built in Davenport, Iowa. I have also worked on the first roundabout that is going to be built in Davenport. I've also been working on integrating the use of Virtual Reality into our Architecture and Engineering workflows.
Beardsley Design Drafting
Stephen Beardsley Class of 1971
I graduated from Morrison in late 1971 in the Architectural program. From there I moved to Chattanooga, TN to work for an Architectural firm. After 18 months I returned to Cedar Rapids, IA and found employment with a well-known firm in Cedar Rapids. After 14 years learning working with design, detailing, and marketing, I went out on my own and started my own drafting service, where I still work today. When I first attended Morrison it was called IDT, Institute of Drafting & Technology. The dorms and the classrooms were all converted mobile homes. It was interesting, and I learned a lot to carry me through life. I have been the lead manager on the Ground Transportation Center in Cedar Rapids, and I have been involved with projects like Mt Mercy Gymnasium, Cedar Memorial Funeral Home, the County Care Facility, and the renovation of the Marion, Iowa downtown. Since working for myself I have designed a 50's - 60's diner, a blood plasma retrieval office, a number of physicians offices, and numerous remodeling projects.
Mallard Manufacturing Engineer
Jesse Holloway Class of 2015
Designer, computer nerd, and gamer. Anything mechanical interests me. I’m fascinated by mechanical assembly and functionality. My time at Morrison Tech was quite an enjoyable one. I was able to learn a lot of things I never would have thought possible, and all the staff were friendly and approachable. I currently design warehouse storage systems and gravity flow systems for Mallard Manufacturing where I have worked on projects for Ford, GM, Amazon, Walmart, and many others, supplying storage systems for warehouses and distribution.
Expanding for Student Success Kyle Bess has been an excellent addition to the technical staff. He brings high energy and an emphasis on project based learning to his classroom. He has also created a high level of energy and excitement in the dual credit program Morrison Tech offers to area high schoolers. Mr Bess’s high level of expertise and creative approach to both technology and instruction fit well with the Morrison Tech vision
Gene Farach, P.E. is a key addition the Construction Technology Department. Mr. Farach brings with him 42 years as a practicing Structural Engineer. Along with his strong experience as an Engineer he has been a mentor, business owner, contractor, marketer and even the Mayor of the City of Longwood, Florida.. Gene has begun his teaching career with a high degree of enthusiasm and expertise. Mr Farach continues a long tradition of Morrison Tech instructors with proven professional excellence. Dr Robert Anderson will be joining the Network Administration program. He brings a wide array of knowledge and experience that gives new perspectives to the networking students and additional expertise to Morrison Tech. His knowledge of instructional technologies will serve Morrison Tech and its students well in the future. Previously Robert taught at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN.
Tim Gleason is an addition to the General Studies Department. Tim is instructing writing and speech courses, and represents Morrison Tech’s strong commitment to a strong educational foundation for its students. Mr. Gleason has Instructed at the college level for more than 15 years, most recently at Colorado Technical University Other personnel and support staff have been added as well. The Admissions Department has added; Abe Driscal and Dan Robinson as Admissions Representatives. David King has joined the college as the Registrar. They provide a clear indication of the college’s commitment to providing service and support to students throughout their time at Morrison Tech
Guiding Principles of Morrison Tech Recently the college launched a comprehensive effort to define the College’s priorities and set a course for the future. Over the course of several months the entire community of Morrison Tech provided feedback and insight as the plan took shape. The plan proudly affirms our mission and vision as we move forward past our 45th anniversary. Five Guiding Principles support the College’s vision. These Principles provide the platform to shape our culture and character as a college. They guide how we behave and the decisions that we make. These principles are applicable to and should live in everything we do. We would like to pass along these principles to you, our Alumni. Principle 1: Student Centric Our responsibility is to provide an environment where students will succeed. Underlying every o Does this contribute to the success of our student? o Does this cultivate the caring family atmosphere we promote? o Is this what is best for the students not what is easiest for me?
Principle 2: Passion Exhibit passion in all that we do. Every moment we have the opportunity to empower and excite those around us, do so. Genuine passion is contagious. To do great work you have to love what you
Principle 3: Embrace and Drive Change Change is imperative for growth. Accept change, encourage change, implement change and support change.
Principle 4: Respect Make the commitment daily to respect one another. Provide an environment in which every member of the college community exhibits trust, teamwork and openness. Acknowledge and value contributions made by all
Principle 5: Stewardship We are stewards of engineering technology, network administration, our students’ dreams and aspirations and the community at large. We will work towards building a better and stronger college each day
Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together. -James Cash Penney
Innovation Center Opens On March 1st construction began on Morrison Tech’s Innovation Center, an 8000 sq. ft building that will bring to life concepts, theories and dreams. The construction progressed quickly, and the building was weather tight by June. Late summer equipment began to arrive and installation was underway.
After months of hard work and planning, the Innovation Center at Morrison Institute of Technology opened to students in late October. Morrison Tech’s biggest attribute is the hands on education that is offered. The Innovation Center will take this to the next level. Students will have hands on access to state-of the-art equipment, and rub elbows with professionals in the field. Students would also have the opportunity to address real design problems for real companies. Housed in the building is cutting-edge additive manufacturing equipment, cnc equipment, a construction technology lab, traditional manufacturing equipment, forging, wood working and metal working equipment, welding equipment, and casting space (both cold and hot) come together to provide almost limitless options. With the addition of a 2000 sq. ft construction lab breaking ground in late Spring, it’s an exciting time to join the Morrison Tech family! Big things are on the horizon!
Morrison Tech Innovation Center Phase One: Operational Phase Two: Design Phase The Innovation Center Facility is complete and operational. There are additional pieces of equipment ordered and on the wish list, but the current capabilities of the center are impressive, so it’s time to unveil the Phase Two concept. The Innovation Center was conceived and designed to be adaptive to new areas of need and capability, and Phase Two reflects this. There has been a high level of interest in industry partnerships even before Phase One was completed. Even though the existing center offers a high degree of flexibility of space, it lacks a large area that could be used for assembly and testing. Phase Two will remedy this, and it will also expand the scale of projects the center can house. Phase Two Capabilities The second phase will feature two key additions to the Innovation Center, a large indoor space and an outdoor lab and materials store. The indoor space will allow for accommodation of large groups, space for large projects or activities that require seclusion, and small construction projects or large assemblies. It will feature a finishing room, a crane, and a saw mill. The outdoor space will allow materials storage and a construction lab space for school projects/instruction, individual projects, and industry collaborations.
Alumni Association
Share your Success Story Become a Featured Alumni on the college Website. https:://www.morrisontech.edu/alumni/
ALUMNI AMBASSADORS The Admissions Office invites you to join our team of Morrison Tech Alumni Ambassadors. Ambassadors are a group of volunteers that assist the College Admissions Department with recruiting prospective students and representing the college in the community-at-large. As an Alum, you are able to share invaluable personal experiences that go beyond any brochure or website. Alumni Ambassadors will be used at a variety of college fairs in their local areas. We know we have Alumni scattered across the country - your participation will create a presence at areas we are unable to reach. If you would like to participate in this organization or have questions please contact Jodie Eaker, Admissions Director, at 815-772-7218 x 207
Morrison Tech launch a middle school STEM Camp last summer and based on the experiences and succus will be expanding the STEM Camp this summer . The camp will consist of seven different STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) related activities that campers will be able to select from. Each day campers will participate in two activities, a morning session and an afternoon session. Kids imagine, collaborate, explore and create, all while learning super cool STEM skills that will help them in school and in life.
The camp will be held on July 8th, 9th and 10th. The daily fee to attend the camp will be $60 and will include two sessions, lunch and a T-shirt. Sessions run 9AM - 12:00PM and 12:30PM - 3:30PM. Lunch will be served 12:00PM - 12:30 PM. Camps offered: •
Coding 4 Kids - Take a peek inside the mysterious world of coding, and the hardware that makes it work. • Bridging into the Future - Explore bridge design using the latest in computer simulations, then put your ideas to the test in a bridge building contest. • Robot Revolution - Design your robot to be the best at our camp robotics challenge. • Robot Resurgence - Take your robots past the revolution. Campers build on experience to overcome challenges of increased complexity and difficulty. • Make It. Take It - Build your personalized project that combines materials and processes including concrete, electrical/electronics, and woodworking. • Make It. Take 2 –What’s better than building one multi-material take home Project? Building a second one! Explore new materials and processes and expand your skills. • Wear’s The TECH - Design and build wearables that utilize and integrate the latest technology. It’s never too early to encourage development in science, technology, engineering, and math. Giving STEM education a try at an early age is the best way to determine whether a child might want to pursue a career in a related field. All of the activities will be staffed by Morrison Tech instructors. The camper will also be able to explore our inspiring campus, make new friends and build skills that last long after summer. Visit the website at www.morrisontech.edu/stemday/ to learn more, or download the brochure and application to apply now. Space is limited, so apply early to secure your spot.
Imagine What We Can Do Together!
Innovation Campaign Every Gift matters. Morrison Tech counts on alumni participation every year. Your investment allows the College to continue providing a more personalized and hands on educational experience for all our students.
Please Consider a Gift this year. Visit www.morrisontech.edu/giving to learn more.
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