Cooperation was a cornerstone of Alan Sesser’s (‘99, Environmental Science) academic experience at Cal Poly Humboldt. His courses involved group projects, like designing a generator-powered exercise bike that could run a television. These hands-on projects taught him collaboration and problem-solving skills that became invaluable in his career as a manufacturing engineer at Lockheed Martin, a leading aerospace and technologies manufacturer.
Looking back, Sesser credits his time at Humboldt for shaping both his personal and professional life. “The experiences I had there, the friendships I made, and the lessons I learned about teamwork and perseverance still influence me today,” he says.
As a manufacturing engineer at Lockheed Martin, Sesser works on innovative high-powered laser technology, specifically fiber laser modules. His primary duties involve creating detailed work instructions for technicians to build and test these complex systems, ensuring precision and reliability.
He enjoys the balance of desk work and hands-on involvement on the lab floor, where he collaborates with highly specialized engineers and technicians. Working in operations, he helps manage the production process for one-of-a-kind, research-driven projects, which often come with unique challenges like unconventional designs and first-time assembly issues. His role requires troubleshooting, problem-solving, and adapting to constantly evolving technologies, making his work both challenging and rewarding, leveraging his environmental science background and technical skills developed at Humboldt.
Sesser’s journey to Cal Poly Humboldt was anything but traditional. After spending over three years in junior college, Sesser’s path was redirected by a camping trip to Sue-meg State Park, formerly Patrick’s Point State Park. That trip was a revelation. He fell in love with the expansive ocean, towering trees, and the unique climate of Northern California. Inspired by the environment and the community, Sesser decided to make Humboldt his academic home.
“After that trip, I was hooked,” Sesser says. Determined to attend Humboldt, he moved to the area a year and a half before starting classes, enrolling at College of the Redwoods to complete prerequisites. During this time, he worked at Ellis Art and Engineering Supplies in Eureka. Soon he was accepted to Cal Poly Humboldt as a junior.
Despite financial challenges, Sesser’s perseverance and resourcefulness secured scholarships and grants that fully covered his tuition. “I remember standing in line to apply for scholarships, thinking it might be a waste of time. But it totally paid off,” he said.
Sesser’s passion for environmental science and technology flourished during his time at Humboldt. While he initially considered engineering, his love for the environment led him to his major.
“I had some great professors and courses that really opened my eyes,” he said, reminiscing about a particularly memorable wastewater management class and a tour of the Eureka wastewater plant. “It was fascinating to see all the work that happens behind the scenes.”
Sesser’s time at Humboldt wasn’t all academics. He cherished the area’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. Weekends were often spent hiking, playing Frisbee golf, or enjoying bonfires at Clam Beach and College Cove.
“That whole stretch of beaches is so unique. Watching the sunset with friends, it felt like part of my soul stayed there,” Sesser says.
In his senior year, Sesser’s future took an unexpected turn. Though uncertain about his career path, he interviewed with Lockheed Martin during Humboldt’s career and job fair, and campus recruitment drive. Initially seeing it as an opportunity to practice his interview skills, Sesser’s genuine connection with the hiring manager, coupled with his academic background, landed him a job as a satellite communications operator.
Sesser’s career with Lockheed Martin spanned 15 years, starting in Sunnyvale, California, during the dot-com boom. He later moved to Washington state with his wife, Lisa, who also worked for Lockheed. After a brief stint at a startup aerospace company in Seattle, Sesser returned to Lockheed, where he continues to work today.
Now living in Washington, Sesser reflects fondly on his time at Humboldt and the natural beauty that first drew him there. “I’ve always hinted at moving back, but Humboldt will always hold a special place in my heart.”