Class of 2025 Graduate Success Story: Joseph Delvalle

2025 Graduate and Chico State Transfer Student

Ever since he was a kid, Joseph Delvalle has been hooked on anything robotics related. That early interest naturally led him to mechatronics-a blend of coding, electronics, and mechanics that come together to make machines function. Despite life's challenges, Joseph's interest in engineering has been the guiding force behind his academic and career goals, inspiring him to pursue higher education and make a meaningful impact in the field.

Initially, Joseph was more focused on athletics and was later encouraged to pursue a career in public service or the military. After nearly getting crushed by a pipe at work, he was motivated to reevaluate his future goals and revisit his interests in science. Inspired by peers who were involved in mechatronics, he decided to commit fully to engineering.

Butte College played a pivotal role in Joseph's academic transformation. Although he initially struggled, his involvement with the MESA center, an academic support program for students in STEM fields, helped him develop resilience and a clearer vision for his future.

Joseph also embraced extracurricular opportunities, becoming a founding member of Butte's Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers chapter. This involvement expanded his network and exposed him to major industry players, including RTX and Lockheed Martin.

Looking ahead, Joseph is eager to transfer to Chico State, where he hopes to refine his skills, identify his niche within engineering, and establish a rewarding career. His advice to new students is clear: "Don't be a wallflower. Get involved, ask for help, and persevere. Success is about how you get up after you fall."

###