Turning Curiosity into a Career in Engineering

Marietta High School senior Claire Mangiafico

For Marietta High School senior Claire Mangiafico, a simple elective class turned into a launchpad for her future. As a student in Jason Schob’s Senior Career Capstone class, Claire wasn’t quite sure what she wanted to pursue—but she knew she wanted to explore. What she found was a passion for engineering, a paid internship, and a clear path forward.

Claire was first introduced to Micro Machine Works at the Washington County Career Center’s Manufacturing in Action event, where she connected with machinist Cleve and became intrigued by the precision and complexity of the work. Encouraged by Jenna Stewart, her BB2C connection and mentor, Claire then volunteered at BB2C’s Family Career Fest where she had a chance to network with local professionals and formally met Micro Machine Founder and President, Linn Yost—an important step in her journey.

This led to a job shadowing experience with Micro Machine Works, which sealed the deal. Claire toured the shop, spoke with machinists, and saw cutting-edge equipment, including a magnification machine used for ultra-precise measurements. She also met Caleb McCarty, a college intern who later helped her get started with SolidWorks software.

Claire’s 3D Printed Minecraft Parrot.

Claire applied for and is currently completing a paid internship with Micro Machine Works. She submitted a resume and cover letter with support and guidance from BB2C staff during the application process. Through this experience, she is building skills with SolidWorks, learning more about 3D printing, and even having a chance to create game-inspired designs—her favorite so far being a black-and-white Minecraft parrot. She has also been able to further her professional connection with Linn Yost. 

Claire’s design on SolidWorks, which she is working to become certified in.

When reflecting on his engagement with Claire so far, Linn reiterated the importance of students finding and following their own career pathways. He shared, “Whatever a student does in life – They need to be sure to follow their passion.  Not their friends’ passion or their parents’ passion, but THEIR passion.  Success and happiness will follow.” He foresees this success for Claire as she continues on her professional journey.

Claire is heading to Ohio University this fall to study Mechanical Engineering. She earned a $500 Masonic Lodge scholarship and will be working with the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturer’s Coalition this summer through another paid internship, completing 120 hours and earning $15 an hour. Her goal for her upcoming second internship is to become fully certified in SolidWorks and continue to develop the skills that will help her with engineering.

Watching and supporting Claire’s success, BB2C Career Pathway Specialist Jenna Stewart shared, “It’s truly an honor to work with students like Claire. The moments I treasure most are when a student places their trust in me, embraces the opportunities I share, and then grows into something even greater than they imagined. Watching Claire step into her potential this past year has been incredibly rewarding, and I know it’s only the beginning of her journey.”

Claire’s story is a powerful example of what happens when students are given the tools, support, and opportunities to explore. As she says: “If there’s an opportunity you’re interested in, go after it until you get it!”

Linn Yost, from Micro Machine Works (far left), stands next to his intern Claire Mangiafico (second from left) as she is awarded a scholarship towards her journey to become an engineer.