Braden Feick

As an energy delivery system operator associate for American Electric Power (AEP), Braden Feick is one of many “hands on deck” when a power outage sweeps through the area. Thanks to his extensive training at COTC — which dovetailed into an immersive internship in his field of study — Feick has been able to launch a fulfilling career that transitioned seamlessly from his education experience. For Feick, keeping that experience within a short distance from home was a priority, and he wishes more prospective students knew about the affordability and feasibility of the COTC option.

“You can still live at home. You can still get an education that’s affordable and attainable,” he said. “It’s a lot easier than people give it credit for.”

Feick knew upon his graduation from Utica High School that he wasn’t looking for a traditional, four-year college experience. He knew dorm life wasn’t for him; he was ready to get a jump on a career and stay close to his family. After a brief time at a four-year university, Feick learned about COTC’s electrical transmission and power distribution technology program and knew it would be a fit.

Immediately he made connections with other students and professors who helped him along his journey.

“When I came here, we were all interested in IT. We shared the same classes through and through,” he said. “That’s probably been the best thing about COTC — the people I’ve met along the way.”