Destined to be on or near the water, Jacob Sasaki relocated to Sarasota, Florida from California approximately four years ago. He worked as a server and bartender, made a good living and was content. He said even though everything was good, and he liked his job, something was missing. “I became complacent and needed something more in my life. I wanted a career that I had a passion for.” When Jacob heard about the Marine Service Technologies program at Suncoast Technical College, he said, “It was a no-brainer. I love boats and I love the water, so I enrolled.”
STC students participate in work-based learning and after much research, Jacob decided that Jet Propulsion would be his focus. “I found my passion. It’s what I had the most interest in, and it’s a career where leisure and work can coexist.” Facilitation was at first a challenge because STC focuses on inboard and outboard engines, but according to Jacob, “I reached out to Yamaha and told them I was a student seeking more curriculum in Jet Propulsion, and the possibility of on-the-job training.” It took a few weeks to get the ball rolling, but his persistence landed him a job at Cycle Springs in Oldsmar, Florida. “I am so thankful to Cycle Springs for ‘going out on a limb’ and taking me on as an employee while I’m also a student.” Jacob says it’s a bit of a drive, approximately 85 miles one-way, but working for one of the best companies in the power sports industries is well worth it. He is also grateful to Karry Schroeder and Ron Lubic from Yamaha for their assistance in working with him towards a career in Jet Propulsion.
Jacob plans to graduate in August 2024. He continues to work as a server and bartender while completing his education at STC, and work-based learning at Cycle Springs. He attributes his success to instructor and mentor, Keith Rollins, who told Jacob, “What you put into this class is what you will get out of this class.” Jacob went on to state, “I had little boat knowledge, basic mechanical skills, and a big dream that Mr. Rollins helped me make come true.” Jacob is expecting his first child in September and is grateful to STC for helping him become a more providing father. “I can wholeheartedly say that my decision to enroll at STC was one of the best I’ve ever made. If you put in the work, you will achieve your dream, and the connections you make along the way will help set you up for success.”
For more information about STC's Marine Service Technologies or other Career & Technical Education programs, click here or contact a school counselor at 941-924-1365 / Ext. 62283.