Meet Commencement Speaker Alex Fackelman
As Pine Technical & Community College (PTCC) celebrates the achievements of the Class of 2026, one graduate stands out not only for his academic accomplishments, but for the lasting impact he has made on campus. Alex Fackelman, selected as the speaker for the 4:30 p.m. commencement ceremony, represents the dedication, leadership, and perseverance that defines the PTCC experience.
Over the course of three years, Alex completed not one, but two Associate of Applied Science degrees through PTCC’s Gunsmithing and Firearms Technology and Precision Machining Technology programs. Originally drawn to PTCC because it was the only college in the region offering Gunsmithing, Alex turned a personal hobby into a meaningful educational journey.
“I loved working on my own firearms and figured I would go deeper into my hobby,” Alex shared.
What began as an interest quickly became much more. Throughout his time at PTCC, Alex became a standout student and a familiar face across campus. Whether participating in clubs, organizing student activities, or helping bring classmates together, he became known for his positive attitude, strong work ethic, and leadership.
Faculty, staff, and fellow students alike appreciated Alex’s willingness to connect with others and contribute to campus life. His presence helped strengthen the PTCC community, and he leaves behind a lasting example of what it means to be engaged and supportive.
“My overall experience at Pine was very good,” Alex said. “The faculty are great, and the support staff are always ready to help you with whatever you need. I also liked how small the school is, so I got to know almost everybody’s name at the college.”
Alex credits his time at PTCC with helping him grow personally as much as professionally.
“My interest in trying new things has skyrocketed since attending Pine,” he said. “My personability has improved, and I think the confidence I gained while attending Pine will do more for me than my degree.”
After graduation, Alex will begin his career at RMS Cretex as a milling machinist, helping manufacture surgical tools that will make a difference in people’s lives across the country. While entering the machining workforce, he also plans to continue working on firearms in his spare time and remains open to continuing his education in the future.
Outside of the classroom and shop, Alex enjoys reading nonfiction books, fishing, hiking, camping, spending time outdoors, and relaxing with friends and family.
As commencement speaker, Alex shared a message rooted in consistency, humility, and perseverance. Drawing inspiration from the book Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf, he encouraged his classmates to focus on steady growth and discipline rather than waiting for motivation.
“One of the biggest ideas in the book is that success does not come from constantly chasing motivation or waiting until you ‘feel ready,’” Alex said in his speech. “It comes from consistently doing the small things well — over and over again.”
He reminded graduates that success is built quietly through everyday effort:
“Before success, chop wood and carry water. After success, chop wood and carry water. Keep showing up. Keep improving. Keep doing the work.”
Alex closed his remarks with advice for his fellow graduates that reflects the example he has set during his time at PTCC:
“Take pride in your work. Stay humble enough to keep learning. Do not let temporary feelings control permanent decisions. And remember that success is usually built quietly — through small actions repeated consistently over time.”
While PTCC will be sad to see Alex leave campus, his leadership, positivity, and dedication have left a strong mark on the college community. His story serves as an inspiring example for future students and graduates alike.