Seizing opportunity: Labbe harnesses power of networking and mentorship

Networking isn't just about shaking hands and exchanging business cards. It's about building meaningful relationships that shape careers and open doors to opportunities. 

For Zach Labbe, San Jacinto College process technology student, networking has propelled his academic and professional growth. 

During his junior year as a Clear Brook High School dual credit student, Labbe struggled to determine his career path. Though he had been considering the medical field, a conversation with his school counselor introduced him to process technology and the opportunities in the chemical industry. Her guidance — combined with the cutting-edge facilities and high-quality training at San Jac's LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy, & Technology, along with the opportunity to earn six figures — solidified his decision to enroll. 

"I wanted to do something meaningful and secure my future," Labbe said. "The chance to gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities, such as the glycol processing plant, convinced me that San Jac was the right choice." 

Labbe immersed himself in the college community, joining the process technology club, where he now serves as the vice president. This role expanded his network and introduced him to mentors like Andre Johnson, the club’s president, and fellow student Stuart Prall, who have mentored Labbe and helped him excel. His academic dedication has also paid off, as he recently made the dean's list for his outstanding grades. 

Labbe’s active participation showcased his potential to influential figures like Jeff Pearce, CPET education and workforce coordinator. Pearce connected him to plant tours and exclusive networking events. 

"We were settling logistics for the Texas Chemistry Alliance hospitality tent for the Pasadena Rodeo last year when Zach was roped in to help load something into my truck," Pearce said. "He asked if he could help that evening. After that, he volunteered each night, and I could see him talking with different industry members throughout the evening. He learned that weekend that volunteering will get you some face time with the people that will eventually hire you, and he constantly looks for more opportunities to engage." 

Labbe encourages students to build meaningful connections with their peers outside the classroom.  

"I was just going to class and heading home before," he said. "But getting involved in the community and participating in events changed everything. It's been a huge confidence booster." 

According to Pearce, Dow Chemical has Labbe on its radar as a potential apprentice because of his strong engagement. During a plant tour, Dow leaders encouraged Labbe to apply for the prestigious Dow apprenticeship program and personally follow up. 

"Being engaged and present made the difference. It wasn't just my resume; it was my face and my story," he explained. 

For Labbe, networking is more than a skill — it's a pathway to success, enriching his education and future.  

"You never know who can open a door for you," he said. "And sometimes all it takes is a single conversation." 

Lessons in Networking 

• Be Proactive: Whether through clubs, events, or casual conversations, actively engage with others. 
• Value Every Connection: Relationships with peers, instructors, and professionals can lead to unexpected opportunities. 
• Show Initiative: Employers and mentors value students who step forward, demonstrating interest and effort. 
• Pay It Forward: Building a network isn't just about personal gain. Create opportunities for others. 

Learn more about the process technology program