Meet Laura Robertson, Electronic and Communications Systems Technology instructor
Posted: August 19, 2015
Electronic and Communications Systems Technology program instructor Laura Robertson has been a faculty member for the past 25 years. Prior to coming to Bates, she taught at Pierce and Clover Park Technical Colleges. Before she was an instructor, she worked as a journey-level electronics technician. Laura holds numerous industry-recognized certifications and licenses, and has been nominated several times for the college’s employee of the year.
- What gives you inspiration each day?
Each day of life is a blessing from God. My favorite scripture reads, “This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
At the end of each day, week, month and year, working as an instructor at Bates Technical College, I know I make a difference in students’ lives. The rewards are numerous and tangible, knowing that what I do has a lasting and positive impact on my students, their families and their futures.
- As an instructor, what is your mission?
My mission is very similar to the college’s mission statement. I believe I am here to inspire, challenge and educate students for a fulfilling and rewarding career in technology.
I treat all my students with respect and dignity, and realize that they are human, flawed, but capable of achieving more in many instances than they think possible. I’ve done my job well when they attain personal, professional and financial success—which is usually the case.
- What would you say to encourage prospective students to enroll in your program?
Jobs, jobs and more jobs! High-wage and high-demand careers! I typically have more job openings than I do students to fill those positions. The program is broad-based, and appealing to students who want to work as a field technician driving a company vehicle and working at a systems level, and to those who prefer to work in a shop at a component level.
The careers are high-tech, working as a broadband technician, fiber optic technician, installers, data/voice network technician, telecommunications and avionics or marine electronic technicians.
Here are several interesting facts: the curriculum really isn’t as difficult as many might think; the class is fun; and I have an outstanding completion and employment rate.
- What is the best part of being a Bates Technical College faculty member?
I have worked at Bates Technical College for more than 25 years and have made strong, genuine, supportive friendships that will last a lifetime.
- If you had the opportunity to have dinner with someone, living or dead, who would that be, and why?
My unquestionable answer is Jesus Christ. I am not sure what we would have for dinner however, I would request that he turn water into wine.
Did you know? Laura’s mother received her electronics Certificate of Completion at Bates. She was one of Laura’s students taking evening extension classes. Imagine your mother being a student in your class!