Video: EMCC Graduate Hopes To Inspire Others With His Success

[syndicaster id=’5807517′]

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – 9 East Mississippi Community College students won first place at the Mississippi SkillsUSA competition this spring.

Now, one of those students, a Lowndes County man who graduated in the automotive technology program, is sharing his story of success, hoping to inspire others before a national competition begins.

“I love something that’s not running, broke down, bringing it back to life,” said David Smith.

47-year-old David Smith has more than 30 years of experience in automotive’s.

He joined the military as a mechanic but due to health issues, he was forced to leave the service.

That’s when he decided to continue his education.

“They told me to retire, I said ‘no I can’t retire,’ I talked to my wife, my kids and asked for support and they said yes I’d be glad to support you if you go back,” said Smith.

Smith graduated in May from EMCC in the automotive technology program.

This spring, he competed against hundreds in the Mississippi SkillsUSA competition, which prepares students to enter the skilled workforce.

Smith won first place in the job demonstration category, where he showed how to change the oil and check the brakes.

“I’ve never won anything. Going against the people who are younger than me, you would think they would be more prepared but they weren’t,” said Smith.

This month, Smith will compete in a national competition and he’s kept busy preparing.

“My main practice is with my son. I think he’s harder on me than anybody else and he’s only 17 years old. He said I learned that from you. If you want something, go for it. He told me to bring him the medal back home,” said Smith.

Now, Smith wants to encourage others to set goals and achieve them, no matter their age.

“You got a goal, stick with it. Achieve it, ask for help, don’t be ashamed of asking for help. Look at me, I’m a broken down soldier but I’m doing what I love and I’m happy,” added Smith.
The National SkillsUSA competition will be held the week of June 22nd in Louisville, Kentucky.
More than 16,000 people are expected at the event.