As a average student .. at best ... Benson Tech. played a key role in my development as a person and more importantly my vocation. With the exception of my parents .. without a doubt my four years at Benson (in the then “pre-engineering” curriculum) guided and inspired me towards my professional engineering college degree. After Benson I went on to get my Civil PE degree, practicing in 5 states and ultimately retiring in the environmental engineering field.
Aside from the ability to “make a living” issue Benson Tech imparted to my life, there is, I firmly believe a far more important issue learned at Benson, the ability / knack call it what you want, and that is the confidence and knowledge to tackle most any “fix-it build-it” problem from car, home, work or wherever and fix yourself. If not able to fix it, know what needs to be fixed and the knowledge (from Benson) to ask the hard and “right” questions of the mechanic or repair person so one gets what they pay for.
Upon graduation from college I moved to the mid west. As my children approached high school age I seriously considered moving back to Portland so they would have the opportunity to attend Benson Tech. I believe ALL high schools should have a required vocational component to the curriculum.
Signed,
A lucky to attend, 1961 Benson graduate.
Benson Tech. - a fortunate experience |
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