Chem Lab Alumni Spotlight – Aaron Clemm, U.S. Steel Research and Technology Center

Aaron is a graduate of Penn Hills High, where he developed a love of math and science but really wasn't sure how to infuse his strengths into a future career until he discovered Bidwell Training Center's Chemical Lab Technician program through a referral.

While a student at Bidwell, Aaron didn't have a car and relied on a 6 a.m. bus to get to school, a 4 p.m. bus to get to work, and a 10 p.m. bus to get home after his shift working as a custodian. Aaron describes his time at Bidwell as a committed investment in his future and building a life.

“You've got to be fully committed, fully present and completely engaged,” he said. “At Bidwell, you're treated as if you're already employed, and so when you move into the world of professional work, it's second nature.”

In just under one year, Aaron had completed the program and accepted an externship at U.S. Steel, and soon after, he was hired full-time. Five years later, Aaron's typical day is spent machining sample parts and conducting sample testing for the automotive industry. He works with high-strength steels to ensure they will not underperform in a crash, helping to keep America safe on the road.

Now, Aaron is newly married. He and his wife and loyal supporter, Chelsea, are beginning their lives together in a new home, and they've just purchased their first brand new car.

The best part is that he sees a future without boundaries, one surrounded by encouragement to keep learning, keep training, and keep advancing. Aaron is advancing his skills and opportunities by pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering with the support of U.S. Steel's tuition assistance program.

“Driving to work each morning, I feel a deep sense of pride that the work I do is literally making sure people everywhere are safe while they're doing the same thing.”