Rich Patino has always been into technology and enjoyed working on projects. So, it was no surprise that when he graduated from the University of Hartford’s College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA) in ’21, it was with a degree in computer engineering and minors in mathematics and computer science. Outside the classroom, he was a member of the Cybersecurity and Film Clubs. He landed a job as an EE System Design & Analysis Engineer for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Seattle, WA. At UHart, Rich turned his passion into a profession, preparing him for his future as an engineer at Boeing.
Rich believes working at an incredible aerospace company is truly an honor. “Every day I see a Boeing aircraft in the sky I say to myself, 'I helped to design and test the network systems on that aircraft'! As of today, I have learned so many skills within the company that will make me grow as an engineer. Every day is a new day for learning, and I cannot wait to see what tomorrow brings!”
His studies at CETA provided the important skill set required for success in his industry. “My UHart experiences played a major role in learning programming languages, document projects, learning how to manage my time, and getting experience on working with cross-functional groups.” In addition, he believes, “CETA taught me how to work in teams effectively. From Engineering by Design to my Capstone course, splitting up tasks among the group ensures staying on track and learning from one another.” These are all skills he’s utilizing today at Boeing.
Rich's passion to learn and build new skills was supported by the UHart faculty. He recalls, “Professor and advisor Krista Hill was just great at getting the point across! Whether it was hands on lab work or teaching a new topic, she was always there to assist in anyway possible. I remember during the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic she would stay after class or quickly setup a conference if assistance was required to complete a project.”
As he recalls some of his favorite things at UHart, Rich talks about campus. “It is a great space to be in and one of the reasons why I chose the university. Crossing the bridge to the academic side during the spring is just spectacular,” he says. Hawktober weekend is another thing that Rich remembers fondly. He says, “It was such a great time to spend the beautiful day with family and friends with tons of cool activities to do.”
Rich's advice to incoming students is simple, “If you work hard now, work later on will be a breeze. If you don't work hard now, the work later on will be difficult.”
Rich Patino '21, Computer Engineering, minors in Mathematics and Computer Science, CETAMy UHart experiences played a major role in learning programming languages, document projects, learning how to manage my time, and getting experience on working with cross-functional groups.