Outstanding Students

Jonathan Schmidt

Where are you from? I’m originally from North Canton, Ohio. I currently live in Marion, Iowa.

Why did you choose Kirkwood? Kirkwood offered the degree program that I was interested in and is in a convenient location.

What is your major and how did you choose it? I have been interested in mechanical design and 3D printing for about 5 years before starting the program at Kirkwood. I learned CAD using Fusion 360 in order to create things that I could then turn into a real object. The idea that you can create something on a computer and then have a physical object at the end is fascinating. When I was looking for a new career and came across the CAD/Mechanical Engineering program, I knew it was the right choice for me.

What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood? Being selected as the Outstanding Student!

What are your plans after Kirkwood? Since May 2023, I have worked at an internship at Crystal Group in Hiawatha. I’m very pleased that they have offered me a fulltime position upon graduation.

What inspires or motivates you? I’m a lifelong learner. Knowledge is great, but I especially love gaining practical knowledge and skills. I’m excited to be able to apply what I’ve learned at Crystal Group where I also learn something new every day.

Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood. I am the proud father to two sons, ages 17 (junior in high school) and 20 (sophomore at Iowa State). In my spare time, I enjoy tinkering with technology, gaming on Xbox and PS, DIY projects, board games, and crafts. I also play piano and sing.

What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? I was so surprised to learn that I was selected as an Outstanding Student! I’m honored by the recognition and am so happy to see the payoff from all of the hard work I have put into my education.

Is there anything else you’d like to add? You are never too old to go back to school and learn something new!

Categories: Outstanding Students