Austin Manzella is a graduate of Centennial High School (CHS) who found something he enjoyed learning about at a young age and never looked back.
Austin discovered his passion for engineering while enrolled in Project Lead the Way (PLTW) classes. He explored robotics, architectural design, and engineering design and development at CHS, which he says provided him with a tremendous advantage.
“It helped me get ahead in my college career by learning the engineer’s mentality and work ethic before I ever reached college level. I had a level of understanding of the workings of engineering mechanics at an early age compared to other students from general education high schools.” - Austin Manzella, CHS graduate
After graduating in 2013, Austin attended Montana Tech of the University of Montana where he achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering. He recently returned to Bakersfield and is now employed with Hathaway LLC as a Lease Operator Trainee.
“As long as you work hard and strive to do your best in what you enjoy, you will find yourself in a future career that will make you proud.” - Austin Manzella, CHS graduate
Austin was also part of the first graduating PLTW class at CHS and the KHSD. He is the first PLTW graduate to return and be employed in Kern County.
“Students like Austin proved to us that the program worked and was worth our time and efforts. He was able to use his experience in the class to select a quality engineering program to continue his educational trajectory. Having such accomplished students return to Bakersfield to lead future generations is the shared goal of both Centennial Engineering and Chevron. Having former students with careers in town is an amazing resource for our program in the future.” - Colin Smith, CHS teacher
“I met Austin when he was in 9th grade. He just had this spark to him. I knew he was serious about his career path. Chevron is humbled to have made a difference. We are proud of him. He's a good kid.” - Adam Alvidrez, Chevron Community Engagement Specialist
Chevron sponsors PLTW programs in the KHSD and is especially excited for this young man, his accomplishments, and his future.