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Like thousands of other Oklahoma eighth-graders, she first learned about the impact of technology on society in a technology education class. Today, Davis is a flight test engineer on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, a plane that is destined to replace the current generation of fighter jets. That's why she is being recognized as one of Oklahoma's CareerTech Champions. CareerTech Champions are alumni of the system's programs or student organizations who have found success in a career and attribute much of that success to their career and technology education experience. Davis first came into contact with CareerTech education during her eighth-grade technology education class in Woodward. Donovan Bowers, TSA state advisor, said technology education teaches students about the impact technology has made on society, the economy, political decision making and the environment. “The curriculum capitalizes on the individual's potential for reasoning and problem solving, for imagining and creating, and for construction and thinking critically through the use of tools and material related to technology,” he said. “Technology education and the Technology Student Association (TSA) definitely paved the way towards a career in engineering,” Davis said. “I developed self confidence that helped me through college and still helps me today.” “I also loved the competitive aspect of TSA conferences, my time as a state officer and the friendships I developed,” she said. Bowers said that working alongside Davis, who was TSA reporter from 1995-96, showed him that she had the ability to succeed in her chosen career field. “I watched her develop into a young woman with many talents. Jennifer truly excels in her ability for leadership,” he said. “I noticed that she continually demonstrated a mature attitude toward life as well as a willingness to help other young people achieve their full potential.” After graduating from Woodward High School in 1997, Davis went on to the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a degree in aerospace engineering in 2002. Now working for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, Tx., Davis said she learned many other lessons from her CareerTech experience, in addition to technical skills. “CareerTech offers students the opportunity to experience many different careers and options and find their niche,” she said. Davis added that career exploration is critical for young people because too many never adequately plan for their future. “ My advice to students
is to get the best possible education, taking advantage of any opportunity,”
she said. “Try everything – what you like may surprise you!”
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| posted 4/11/2003 | Story by: Manny
Otiko Communications and Marketing |
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As
an eighth-grader, Jennifer Davis never dreamed she would one day be designing
the next generation of fighter jets for the U.S. military.