High School Tinkering to High-Tech Careers: Robotics & Automation with Ramon Cisneros

If you're someone who enjoys technology and solving problems but isn't quite sure what career path to take, Ramon Cisneros, a Robotics & Automation instructor, might just have the right direction for you.

In high school, Ramon found that he was drawn to all things tech and learning how they function. "Right from high school, I pretty much liked tinkering with a lot of robotics and ham radio and (radio-controlled) vehicles. So, what got me into electronics was to repair a lot of the stuff that we had at home," he shares.

This early interest in electronics led Ramon to a career in robotics and automation, including eight years at Raytheon, where he worked on high-security equipment like the Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle. He even had the opportunity to contribute to the Mars rover project at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where he "designed, tested, calibrated—whatever needed to get done” and he enjoyed doing it.

Hands-On Learning at UTI

Now, Ramon brings his wealth of experience to UTI, where he's passionate about teaching students the fundamentals needed in the industry. ¹"At UTI, pretty much what we teach is from the basics. So, you're talking about math, measuring tools, and we teach it with DC and AC electronics," he explains.

Ramon's approach to teaching is all about hands-on learning and comprehension. "We try and teach you the best way with hands on, not just by reading books. So, that way you can know that when you get advanced to PLCs (programmable logic controllers), you're not lost or confused.”

Imagine a Career in Robotics & Automation

Ramon paints an exciting picture of what a career in robotics and automation could look like. "Imagine working on a computer that actually does control your whole house. That's what PLCs do. That's what automation does," he says.

The possibilities in this field are vast, from working on cutting-edge technology to even contributing to the magic behind the scenes at places like Disneyland.

Ramon's Advice for Aspiring Technicians

For those considering a career in robotics and automation, Ramon stresses the importance of learning in a technical program. "The advice I would give a student coming into robotics and automation is to learn as much as possible, whether it's software, hardware, soldering, testing, calibrating," he says.

Start Your Journey Today

If you're looking for a hands-on career where you can shape the future of technology, take a deeper look at our Robotics & Automation program or reach out to us for more information!¹