Brock Miesner
Competitor in Skill: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Country: United States of America
How did you get interested in your skill?
Electrical things have intrigued me from the time I was a little kid. When I went through high school they did not have electrical classes so I enrolled in Heating and Cooling at the Perryville Area Career centre and enjoyed it.
Where did you do your training for your skill?
I initially learned HVAC during my high school years. After taking a job in the field I found out that there was so much more to learn; things that can’t really be taught in a classroom. I learned from co-workers as well as the school of hard knocks, jump in with both feet.
How did you first find out about your Member organization and its programs?
Through my director and teacher at Perryville Career Centre.
Who influenced you to pursue your skill as a career?
My teacher Mr. Blackwell, director of the Career Centre Mr. King, and my cousin Joe Haley who works in the Heating and Cooling field.
What is your experience in participating with your Member organization?
I was in 4-H for many years, FFA for 6 years, and Skills USA for 6 years now.
Describe your most memorable moment so far with WorldSkills?
Hands down, meeting the rest of the world team members at National Skills USA Conference in Louisville; great group of people. They are all very knowledgeable about their skill and a fun group of people to get to know.
Describe what your experience has been since your involvement with WorldSkills.
A lot of training, practicing on my own when I have time, reading through the material, and getting caught up with the rules and ways in Brazil. Really looking forward to experiencing the culture in Brazil.
Did participating in the skills competitions and training for WorldSkills help you progress in your skill? Please describe.
Yes it did; it helped me see how much different equipment there is out there to work on.
What do you currently do?
Where do you work? I currently am a controls technician for Beck Automation in St Louis. We work mainly on metal forming equipment. Install new controls on older equipment to give customers more features and benefits. I get involved with wiring in the new controls, setting them up, setting up VFDs and servos, programming PLCs, calibrating equipment, and working with customers teaching them how to me more efficient and productive.
What are your future career aspirations?
To keep furthering my education and keep moving up the line helping companies to grow no matter where I am working.