explained. “Our students can do it the right way. We went to the Lear Corporation maquiladora in Juárez, Mexico, in early 2023, and we sat with the global vice president of the company. We presented our research, received a tour of the plant, and they spent two hours just chatting.” Pimentel shared that this kind of experience for students boosts their drive to pursue their passions and motivates them to keep going. “They’re taking lessons not only from their professors, but from people who have lived that life,” he shared. “As they interact with these people, they understand that there’s no glass ceiling for them. It’s very inspirational for us because they realize the potential they have, and there’s nothing they can’t accomplish if they really want it.” Many students have gone on to make the business world a better place after graduation, and many have returned to the College of Business to share their stories and help others climb that same ladder. “There’s no greater joy for us involved in the program than to see our students succeed,” Pimentel said. “When your former students and come back and still want to pitch in or help the younger cubs to grow and inspire them, that’s why we do what we do. For me personally, that’s why I’m a professor. I want my students to succeed.” Pimentel said it is inspiring to see where some of his students started and where they were able to go with some of the expertise they received during their time in the CSCE program. “We have an alum from NASA who debriefs with us every month, and they want to hire some of our students,” he shared. “I have one student who used to work construction with her dad since she was 4 years old. Last summer, she took her mom to Europe for eight weeks. So, a little bit of change of pace, but that’s what we want. You learn about their stories, what inspires them and what their ambitions and goals are. It’s nice to be a part of their journey, and it’s the reason why I’m at NMSU – to help the kids achieve their dreams.” As for the future of the program, Pimentel expressed that it will continue to help students succeed, not only with their career dreams, but life in general. “It’s a very fun and fulfilling career that allows you to travel, meet new people, and engage with several industries at the same time. It’s well paid, well respected, and I don’t see how a student who gets in the supply chain field wouldn’t have a full life,” he said. “Geographically speaking, we cannot be in a better place right now. It’s only going to create more business and job opportunities for our students. We’re very excited for what’s coming.” There’s no greater joy for us involved in the program than to see our students succeed. Designed by vectorjuice/Freepik New Mexico State University – College of Business | 2023 Annual Report – The Bottom Line 7
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