As a student at Northwest Technology Center, Ethan Barnes is getting an early start on preparing for a career. He says that after he graduates from Fairview High School in the spring, he wants to go to college for mechanical engineering and have a successful career. He knows that the instruction that he is receiving from Northwest Tech is going to play a big role in his development. 

“I am taking the Automotive program at tech,” he said. “I have always loved cars so becoming a mechanical engineer was an easy choice for me. At tech, I am learning the basics. I’m going to college for mechanical engineering to learn further in depth.” 

Ethan first heard about tech and the automotive program from some of his friends that were upperclassmen. He says that the program has some perks that he really enjoys. 

“I became interested in the program when I learned that we can work on our own vehicles and it’s more of a lax environment. Tech is a great fit for me but it may not be for everyone. But tech is a lot more relaxed and fun than high school, and definitely worth the experience.” 

As a senior at Fairview, Barnes is involved with a few different groups. He runs cross country and is also a part of the track and field team. He is also a member of E-Sports and Ag Mechanics. 

Throughout his life, Barnes has had a few people that played a role in him becoming the person and athlete that he is. But out of all of them, he says that there is one that stands out the most. 

“My grandpa is a big influence on me,” he said. “He has taught me how to work hard, be consistent, and how to treat a lady the right way. He has been married for 60-plus years and did farming for most, if not, all his life.”