From psychologist to diesel technician: an unlikely career change proves possible

If you were to ask Samantha Ribaudo eight years ago where she saw herself in the future, it likely wouldn’t be here.

She didn’t anticipate the greasy hands, safety glasses and welding gear. She didn’t anticipate enrolling at a technical college in Salina, Kansas, or living with her older brother an hour and a half from home.

She certainly didn’t expect to set aside her degree in psychology for one in diesel technology.

But here she is, and she’s loving every minute of it.

Changing careers

Ribaudo is a second-year student at Salina Area Technical College, and a passionate advocate for those like herself who have hearing disabilities.