#CYPossible: Juan Santos, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Completing coursework calls for celebration, and we are proud to celebrate with Cypress College’s newest degree- and certificate-holders. By achieving these education goals, graduates and certificate-earners are equipped to continue on their college path or find strong footholds in the career fields they’ve chosen. We’ve taken the journey with these outstanding students, and know that when they look to the horizon, they see what is #CYPossible.
Juan Antonio Santos Ocampo
Despite working full-time while studying, Juan completed his certificate in air conditioning and refrigeration in two years. Before he was even finished, he was fielding job offers. The former secretary for ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) on campus has been working in the field for a year.
Please tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? What are your interests? What is your story?
I grew up in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, until I was 10 years old. My parents immigrated to the United States, and I have resided in Orange ever since. I enjoy spending time with my family and staying physically active.
Why did you choose to attend Cypress College and how did being a student here help you find your first position after completion?
A friend of mine who was involved with Cypress College mentioned how great their HVAC program was. I decided to give it a try. The teachers were so helpful that I was able to find a job right before finishing the course.
What were you involved in at Cypress College? How did your path unfold and who were the faculty and staff who have helped you along that path?
During my time in Cypress, I was the secretary for ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) Club. Thanks to Mr. Hock and Mr. Urquidi, who were the most helpful during the completion of the program. They pushed me hard and took the time to explain the material when it was difficult.
What did you pursue after completing your studies at Cypress College (at your transfer institution, in the workforce, etc.) and where are you now?
After completing the HVAC program, I was able to land a job in refrigeration; I have been working for Accutherm Refrigeration for a year now.
What are your long-term goals? What do you aspire to?
As of now, I would like to keep learning new skills in refrigeration filling; in the future, I would like to open my own business.
What are you most passionate about? Why?
My biggest passion is my family. They push me to be the best that I can be. They always support me, no matter how rough our situation is.
What are you most proud of?
I am the most proud of finishing the HVAC program in two years. I was working full time and going to school full time. I pushed myself to finish the program. Now, I am working in the field, and seeing the rewards of hard work feels satisfying.
If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
I feel that I would not do things differently. The situations that I have been through have shaped the way I am, and I am satisfied with the outcome.
What one bit of advice would you give to current and future Cypress College students?
The best advice I can give other students is to not give up and keep working toward your dream.
