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Joe’l Ferreyros transferred to UL Lafayette when he decided to change his major to industrial technology (now called engineering and technology management). Knowing the University’s excellent reputation for engineering, he was confident in his move.  

“I personally chose this program because it is a unique degree,” Joe’l said. “I liked how it touched on all the engineering disciplines: electrical, mechanical, and civil. It seemed to me that someone with the degree was more versatile in their field and had a business optimization side to them as well.”

That versatility has led Joe’l to his current position as a CNC operator/programmer for Taylor Oilfield Manufacturing.

“I basically use extremely hard bits of metal to remove material from chunks of slightly less hard aluminum, steel, cast iron, and superalloy,” Joe’l explained. “The parts I machine are used for oilfield applications.”

Immediately after graduating from UL Lafayette, Joe’l began an internship at a small machine shop.

“While working 60 hours a week as a beginner machinist, I also read books on machining to learn as fast as possible. After six months, I began working for Taylor Oilfield Manufacturing and doubled my salary.”

Joe’l enjoyed UL Lafayette’s engineering technology program, particularly because of one element.

“At the end of the day it’s the professors who made the program so great,” he said. “They genuinely cared about your success, not just in college but in work and life as well.”

Joe’l was also appreciative of the ENGT Student Lounge, the department’s state-of-the-art study room, where he spent most of his time preparing for tests and hanging out with other engineering technology majors.

Outside the classroom and ENGT Student Lounge, Joe’l was active in the , where he completed 450 volunteer hours in one school year. He also served as the Residence Assistant Director of Huger dorms and a fitness class instructor at Rec Sports.

“I highly recommend giving back to the community, which provides so much for you,” Joe’l advocated.

UL Lafayette not only impacted Joe’l’s professional and educational paths but also his personal life.

“My wife and I met at UL Lafayette at a Ragin’ Cajun football game,” he said. “We have a beautiful daughter named Joella, who I hope will one day attend UL Lafayette.”

Joe’l may have graduated in 2017, but his educational journey is far from over.

“Life for me is continuous education and improvement of myself,” he said. “I strive to do great things in my field, my life, and for my family.”