Student Success Spotlight: Cale Metcalf

Cale Metcalf is a full-time adult student in the HPTC Diesel Technology program and a proud fourth-generation farmer from Hooker. From a young age, he knew agriculture would always be part of his future.

“I became passionate about agriculture when my dad would bring me to work with him most days in the summer,” Cale shared. “With the average age of a U.S. farmer being 58, I’m very proud to be a young fourth-generation farmer.”

With plans to return home after graduation and work on his family’s farm, Cale saw HPTC as an investment not only in his future, but in his family’s operation as well.

“My parents inspired me to come to HPTC because they knew it would benefit both me and hopefully the farm one day,” he said. “I chose the Diesel Program because I knew it would be the best opportunity to further my knowledge of heavy-duty machinery.”

Having HPTC close to home played a major role in Cale’s decision to enroll. Being able to stay connected to his roots while furthering his education has been important to him.

“Knowing I could come home almost every weekend and continue playing a role in the family operation made a big difference,” Cale said.

That balance of education and responsibility is already paying off. With today’s rising input costs and expensive equipment, being able to handle repairs in-house makes a real impact.

“With input costs and new equipment being so high, any repairs we can do ourselves are a huge advantage,” Cale explained. “It not only saves our family money, but also time when it matters most.”

For other adults who may be considering enrolling, Cale offers simple but meaningful advice:

“Just commit. The instructors here do a very good job at preparing us for real-world situations.”