Like father, like son: Jake Pietras follows family legacy at STCC

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – For Jake Pietras, Springfield Technical Community College isn’t just a school – it’s a family tradition.

As a second-generation student in the Civil Engineering Technology program, Pietras is following in the footsteps of his father, Michael Pietras, who graduated from STCC in 1996 with the same degree and started a successful engineering and architectural business. Now, almost 30 years later, as Jake prepares to graduate in May, he’s carrying forward a legacy of hands-on learning, passion for construction and dedication to the family business.

Jake Pietras, 19, grew up surrounded by construction and engineering. Originally from Ludlow, he later moved to Chicopee and now resides in Wilbraham. His decision to attend STCC was driven by several factors: affordability, proximity and the college’s strong reputation for hands-on education. “I didn’t have to go far, and I’d rather go to a more hands-on school,” he said. “And the pricing – STCC was the best choice.”

While Massachusetts now offers a free community college program, Pietras enrolled before it was available, making STCC’s affordability a major draw. The decision to pursue Civil Engineering Technology was a natural fit. “I grew up with construction around me, so I’ve always been a hands-on type of guy,” Pietras said.

The Pietras family business, Engineering & Land Solutions, is based in Ludlow and will soon be moving to Wilbraham. His goal? To take over the company one day and continue the work his father started.

Pietras credits much of his success to STCC’s exceptional faculty. “The teachers are awesome – they’re truly here to help,” he said. Professors Beth McGinnis-Cavanaugh and Cynthia DeSellier have played a major role in his education, and one instructor, James McDonald, stands out as a favorite. “He’s the best math teacher I’ve ever had. He’s helped me so much.”

The teachers are awesome – they’re truly here to help. Jake Pietras, STCC Civil Engineering Technology student

Professor DeSellier is proud to have Pietras in the Civil Engineering Technology program. “Jake exemplifies the dedication and enthusiasm we hope to see in all our students,” she said. “His passion for civil engineering and commitment to hands-on learning make him a great fit for this field. It’s inspiring to see him continue his family’s legacy at STCC.”

Lara Sharp, dean of the School of STEM at STCC, emphasized the impact of the program on students like Pietras. “The Civil Engineering Technology program at STCC provides students with the critical skills they need to enter a high-demand industry,” she said. “Jake’s journey is a testament to the strength of our program and the opportunities it creates for graduates. We are proud to support students who are building the future.”

Civil Engineering Technology at STCC offers an Associate in Science degree designed to prepare students for employment in various technical positions within the civil engineering and construction industries. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of topics, including surveying, material testing, computer-aided design (CAD) and design concepts related to structures, transportation, and hydraulics. This comprehensive approach equips students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field.

STCC is the only technical community college in Massachusetts, offering a wide variety of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs, many of which cannot be found elsewhere.

While many students consider transferring to a four-year institution after STCC, Pietras is leaning toward entering the workforce immediately. For him, real-world knowledge is just as valuable as classroom learning.

His passion for civil engineering lies in its practicality and longevity.

“It’s a trade that’s never going to die out,” he said. “People are always going to need civil engineers.”

He’s particularly interested in residential projects and small bridges rather than large-scale city infrastructure.

In addition to working with his father, Pietras holds a part-time job at the YMCA in Wilbraham and does house maintenance for a friend’s father. Balancing work and school can be hectic, but he makes it work. “It’s stressful, but it’s worth it,” he said.

Jake Pietras isn’t the only one in his family with ties to STCC. In addition to his father, his uncle, Neil Paquette, took classes in the Civil Engineering Technology program. Michael Pietras even returned to STCC as an instructor for a time, further strengthening the family’s connection to the college.

Michael Pietras takes pride in seeing his son follow in his footsteps, saying his time at STCC provided a solid foundation that propelled him to open his own successful engineering and architectural firm.

“As a proud alumnus of STCC, I can personally attest to the strength of their Civil Engineering Technology program,” Michael Pietras said. “I’ve even had the pleasure of hiring two talented STCC Civil Engineering Technology graduates, who have proven to be invaluable assets to my company.

“Now, I’m encouraging my own son, and others, to consider starting their educational journey at STCC,” he added. “I firmly believe that STCC’s Civil Engineering Technology program is an excellent starting point for aspiring engineers.”

With graduation on the horizon, Pietras is excited for what’s ahead. Whether he decides to pursue further education or jump straight into full-time work, one thing is clear – STCC has given him the foundation he needs to succeed.

“STCC is a great place,” Pietras said. “The teachers are here to help, and it’s the best choice for hands-on learning.”Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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