Mario Pineda’s Transformation Through UNI and the MCC
Forging a new path at UNI, Mario reflects on his journey with the IPM team.
When Mario de Jesús García Pineda arrived at the University of Northern Iowa in 2024, he described it as “the opportunity of a lifetime - a second chance to completely change my path.” That same year, the Metal Casting Center (MCC) offered him an internship that, in his words, “truly changed everything for me.” By 2025, the MCC team was encouraging him to apply for the master’s program, support that Mario says became a key part of his academic and professional growth.
As an international student, Mario knew the transition would be challenging, but he immediately felt at home. “From day one I’ve been welcomed with kindness, warmth, and real support,” he says. He expresses deep gratitude to the entire MCC team; Bert, Nate, Nico, Sheri, Drew, Jannell, and Jacob, as well as his advisor Scott Giese, his classmates, TechWorks partners, and UNI’s International Engagement, International Admissions, and Payroll offices. “All of you have made my life here much easier, and I’m truly thankful.”
National Recognition and a Deep Passion for Metal Casting
Mario’s commitment to the foundry industry has already earned national recognition. He was selected for the George J. Barker Memorial Scholarship in Milwaukee, a competitive graduate-level award of up to $5,000. “When I received the news, I was genuinely happy,” he says. “It’s the first scholarship of this kind I’ve earned, and I know it’s hard to get through all the selection filters. It means a lot to my personal growth.”
His passion for metal casting comes from a lifelong curiosity. “What I enjoy most is understanding where things come from and how they work,” he explains. “Along with math, physics, and chemistry, this is the foundation of everything — because metals are everywhere.” His favorite moments are hands-on: “When we build molds, prepare them, and pour the metal to bring real projects to life. I love seeing everyone giving their best, and most importantly, keeping safety as the top priority so we can all go home healthy to our families.”
Strengthened by Faith, Resilience, and Supportive “Angels”
Mario’s journey is also shaped by profound personal loss. Between 2018 and 2022, he faced a difficult family season, ultimately losing his father. “Those years deeply shaped my life,” he reflects. “I learned to value consistency, faith, and daily effort.” Today, he says, “my mom and my girlfriend are two of the biggest pillars in my life… I owe them everything.”
He often returns to a message that carried him through his hardest moments: “Everything happens for a reason, and it’s never too late.” Inspired by his favorite band, Three Days Grace, he believes that “our path isn’t written; with God’s help we can change our destiny.” He also credits the “angels” who helped him along the way; Bert Cantu, Tracie, and Dr. Arturo Juárez for encouraging him to keep going.
Looking Ahead While Lifting Others Up
Looking ahead, Mario is preparing for Casting in Steel 2026, where he and fellow UNI students will proudly represent the university. As president of the AFS–FEF chapter at UNI, he hopes to continue strengthening the organization, complete his master’s degree, and eventually work in industry while teaching future students. “I want to help them grow their strengths so they can keep improving the metal casting and steel industry.”
Mario’s final piece of advice for other students: “Don’t take every correction or ‘scolding’ you receive personally, take it as something you need to hear to adjust your path. Choose early what you want to become and don’t let other people decide your future.”
One of Mario’s favorite reminders comes from Gandalf in The Hobbit:
“I have found it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay - simple acts of kindness and love.” Mario says those small moments have shaped both his life and his academic journey and even inspired his undergraduate thesis.