Alumni Spotlight: Thomas Cornelius
Technical education equips students with the practical skills and hands-on experience needed to excel in industries like automotive engineering and manufacturing. Thomas Cornelius, a proud graduate of Hennepin Technical College’s Auto Body program, exemplifies how technical education can open doors to unexpected and rewarding career paths.
After graduating with his Auto Body Diploma in 2008, Cornelius entered the workforce during the challenging economic climate of the Great Recession. With the support and guidance of Hennepin Tech’s instructors, he secured a position at New Flyer USA in St. Cloud, where he painted buses for major cities across the U.S. and Canada.
Programs like those at Hennepin Technical College focus on real-world applications, providing students with the tools to solve problems, innovate, and adapt to evolving industry standards. Students graduate with both the technical expertise and critical thinking skills necessary for jobs in specialized fields such as auto body repair, product development, and applied technical engineering.
In 2011, Cornelius transitioned to 3M as a laboratory technician, marking the start of a decade-long career with the global leader in automotive products. While working at 3M, Cornelius continued his education with Hennepin Tech's support, eventually earning a Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Operations Management from the University of Minnesota through a Bachelor’s Degree Partnership program. Cornelius' role at 3M grew to include testing and developing new products, as well as leading customer training and teaching classes to auto body technicians and industry professionals nationwide. One of the most meaningful moments in his career was presenting a class to his former Hennepin Tech instructors, a full-circle moment that solidified his commitment to the trade.
In 2021, Cornelius moved into an engineering technician role at Graco, the world’s largest manufacturer of paint sprayers, allowing him to work closer to home in northern Minnesota. His role at Graco involves testing paint sprayers and pushing product limits in exciting, hands-on ways. Cornelius' journey from auto body student to industry professional with 3M and Graco showcases the value of technical education and the long-lasting impact of Hennepin Tech’s support. "Sky's the limit," says Cornelius, eager to share his story with current students and inspire the next generation of auto body professionals.
Through direct industry partnerships, internships, and technical certifications, technical education prepares students to seamlessly transition into roles at leading companies like 3M and Graco, where they can develop cutting-edge products, lead training initiatives, and contribute to technological advancements. The combination of classroom learning and practical experience ensures that graduates are job-ready and capable of advancing their careers in high-demand fields.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Tech is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, Hennepin Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.