INA, Ill. (November 11, 2026) — Navy veteran and Rend Lake College student Clayton Wyciskalla turned years of military technical training into a future-focused career path through RLC’s Industrial Mechatronics and Maintenance Technology program during the 2026 Summer semester.
Wyciskalla’s path was shaped early on by a family legacy of service. Inspired by stories from his grandfather and family members who served in World War II and Vietnam, he knew long before graduating high school that he would enlist. College was always on his radar, but it remained on his "do it later" list while he served his country.
During his time in the Navy, Wyciskalla worked in a high-stakes technical environment maintaining shipboard weapons defense systems. That role demanded strict attention to detail, precision and an unwavering work ethic.
“Having responsibilities of that magnitude make or break someone,” Wyciskalla said. “If you don’t appreciate what you do, you don’t take those responsibilities seriously. The military background mostly just gives me the drive to do things the best I can, stay motivated to get things done the right way and handle the stress of going to school full time with a baby at home.”
After finishing his service, Wyciskalla sought a college program that would allow him to maximize his GI Bill benefits and re-enter the workforce efficiently. He chose RLC’s Industrial Mechatronics and Maintenance Technology program to build on his technical background while adding certificates in multiple areas, such as machining, industrial wiring, PLC, robots & automation, heavy equipment and welding, to enhance his degree and diversify his career choices.
“I felt, with the limited benefits of my GI Bill, that it was the right choice to utilize RLC to get the most out of what three years can get you,” Wyciskalla said. “I really missed and enjoyed the technical work that comes with this field. My military training was very fast-paced, and I wanted to refresh and learn this field in a more instructor-involved class setting to maximize my understanding.”
Navy veteran and Pinckneyville Community High School alumnus Clayton Wyciskalla began his RLC journey in the Summer 2026 semester, working toward a degree in Industrial Mechatronics alongside technical certificates in welding, machining and diesel technology.
With hands-on experience in electronics, troubleshooting and mechanical work already under his belt, Wyciskalla is focused on turning his training into a stable, rewarding career in the trades.
Ultimately, his main goal is straightforward: utilizing his skills to build a strong future for his family.
“Where I end up on my career path doesn’t matter as long as it is a job that pays decently well and provides good benefits to keep my family happy and healthy,” Wyciskalla said. “I prefer the job to be in the field I am getting my degree in — electrical work, troubleshooting, working with my hands.”
Interested in starting your own career in Industrial Mechatronics and Maintenance Technology? Fill out our quick inquiry form or contact an academic advisor at 618-437-5321 ext. 1299 / advisement@rlc.edu to book a registration appointment today!
Ready to explore the support available to veterans at Rend Lake College? Visit rlc.edu/veteran-services to learn more about RLC’s Veteran Services.