Ethan Torgesen - ePortfolio

I have always wanted to go into the mechanical engineering field. I have grown up wondering how things work, and have taken things apart just to see the mechanisms inside. It was right around 8th grade when I formally decided I wanted to go into engineering, so I could satisfy people’s questions of what I wanted to be when I grew up. As I tried different types of engineering, I discovered that I loved every part of it, and that it was right for me.

To prepare myself for an engineering career, I am currently enrolled in the James Forrest Career and Technology Center, or Tech Center for short. I am taking the engineering course, which means I have had and will have the opportunity to learn programming, woodwork, metalworking, and more. In the class, we have already learned to wire Arduinos and use a CNC wood machine. I have also learned how to prevent procrastination, and how to use the engineering design method to improve ideas and projects. Additionally, I have taken normal middle school and high school classes, in which I have learned how to write and do math efficiently, which are both very important in the life of an engineer.

I have taken part in many activities that have improved my character. In middle school, I was part of the Chesapeake Public Charter School MATHCOUNTS team. With many days of instruction and the help of amazing adults to support me, I was able to go to the state competition in seventh grade. I was also invited to the state competition the following year, but was unable to, due to the rising Coronavirus cases. From this experience, I was able to see how hard work pays off, and also humility, as there were many other people much better than I was. Additionally, I have participated in many sports, such as soccer, volleyball, baseball, football, basketball, and swimming. From my time on these teams, I was able to see the value of working together. I also had the opportunity of learning sportsmanship and patience, through the highs and lows of winning and losing. I am also currently employed as a soccer referee by the Capitol Area Soccer Referee Association(CASRA), and spend much of my weekends on the soccer field, helping to keep games fun and fair for younger children. This job has helped me to learn better communication, as I have to be clear with my words and signals, so that the players know the right calls. I have also learned to be honest and fair, through calling only what I see, and not submitting to pressure from coaches and spectators.

After graduation, I plan to attend college, although I currently have not decided which one. I think this is the best route for me, because I can use that time to get used to being independent and self-sufficient, before going off into the real world. I will also use that time to develop social groups, and create new hobbies and interests. Lastly, I will also use this time to hone in my skills, so that I am fully prepared to work as an engineer. After college, I currently do not have a plan, besides finding a job that is enjoyable and worth it. Once I achieve my goal, I plan to participate in community sports and service projects, so I can meet new people and develop better social skills. I will continue to use the skills I have and the skills I will develop to improve and become a better engineer.