Russell swaps late-night study sessions for real-world problem solving

Joseph Russell woke up before dawn — not for his San Jacinto College classes but to pick up a fixer-upper Toyota Camry he bought for $200.  

"I needed something fuel-efficient to get me back and forth to work and school," he said. "It's got a whole bunch of problems that I'm excited to work on." 

That same enthusiasm for fixing things has become the foundation for Russell's career path in instrumentation technology, a field focused on designing, developing, installing, and maintaining devices and systems that measure and control physical variables such as temperature, pressure, flow, and level. 

The 19-year-old graduated early from Santa Fe High School in December 2023, having spent his junior and senior years in a dual-enrollment program through College of the Mainland. After experimenting with engineering and process technology, he transferred to San Jac in 2024 to focus on instrumentation. 

"I'd stay up all night doing just two homework questions in engineering," Russell said. "Operations appealed to me more, but the management responsibilities didn't fit me." 

His older brother, an instrumentation technician, introduced him to the field. Russell's knack for hands-on problem-solving started long before he entered a college classroom. Growing up, he and his dad worked on motorcycles together, and he even revived a 1998 Suzuki Samurai. 

"My dad was a carpenter, so I've done some construction too," he said. "I'm not afraid of manual labor."  

Finding the right fit at San Jac 

At San Jac, Russell found the hands-on approach he needed to succeed. 

I can't learn just by reading. When professors actually get us up out of our chairs to examine the equipment, walk us through how it works, and show us all the different parts — that's been invaluable.

Thanks to that practical training, Russell landed an apprenticeship with INEOS Olefins and Polymers in August. He learned about the opportunity through his class with instructor O.V. Gamble. 

"Russell is an exemplary student in terms of his keen desire to learn and understand the craft of Instrumentation," Gamble said. "He set a positive example through his dedication in class, and he always went the extra mile by asking questions and taking extensive notes to deepen his understanding.” 

Real-world experience 

As an apprentice instrumentation and electrical technician, Russell works on waste treatment systems, steam lines, train loading operations, and barge dock equipment.  

"Having this background and solid foundation has helped me a lot," he said. "I don't think there's been anything I've learned at San Jac that I haven't already applied at work." 

Balancing work and school requires flexibility. Some days, Russell leaves work 30 minutes early to make an evening class — a far better arrangement than when he worked 40-50 hours per week while attending school. 

Looking ahead 

Russell expects to complete his instrumentation degree in May 2026. His apprenticeship experience will also count toward a required troubleshooting course. His career goal is straightforward: advance from apprentice to technician and eventually reach the top pay scale in his field. 

Long-term, he is considering relocating to a cooler climate, though INEOS's benefits package might convince him to stay in Texas. 

"I'm 19, and I've got options," he said. "I understand that I can change my mind. I've allowed myself room to grow and pursue whatever I want." 

Advice for future students 

Instrumentation technicians often become the go-to problem solvers when plant systems malfunction because of their specialized expertise in measurement and control systems.  

"We're the technical experts everyone turns to," Russell said. "When complex issues arise, we have the knowledge and skills to fix them — it's empowering to be the person who understands these systems." 

Despite the challenges, Russell's enthusiasm remains strong. 

"You're doing specialized work that few people can master," he said. "It's a fantastic career — I'm loving it so far, and I know I'll continue to love it. You need a passion for problem-solving and innovation." 

Learn more about San Jac instrumentation technology

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About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than 1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s. San Jacinto College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.