As an Oregon Tech alumnus, I had the pleasure of delving deeper into the lives of the McGarry’s. Starting with their names, Brady and Courtney McGarry, their connection to Oregon Tech, and their journey since graduation. Their story embodies the true essence of the Oregon Tech spirit
Brady, with his roots in Southern Oregon, shared his initial motivations for choosing Oregon Tech. "I'm the oldest kid in my family of four children. And I knew I wanted to go to college. I didn't know where or what, but of the Southern Oregon schools, Oregon Tech was a much better option," he explained. The allure of job placement opportunities and the practicality of the programs offered at Oregon Tech played a pivotal role in his decision-making process.
Initially embarking on a path in computer engineering, Brady found himself drawn to the captivating world of land surveying. "I always kind of had an interest in land surveying," he reminisced. "And then I met one of the guys in the land surveying program and thought that's way cooler and way more fun than what I'm studying." This realization led him to pivot his academic focus, aligning his passions with his career aspirations.
Courtney, on the other hand, navigated a different trajectory, starting her journey in nursing. "I got a job out of college at Adventist Medical Center," she shared. "I was in their nurse mentorship program." However, her path eventually diverged towards pediatric nursing, driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of children facing medical challenges.
Their post-graduation adventures took them to Spokane, Washington, where they embarked on a new chapter filled with professional growth and personal milestones. Brady immersed himself in the world of land surveying, traversing the western states and undertaking diverse projects ranging from title insurance surveys to condominium plats. Leaving Spokane behind, they then ventured to Portland, eager to embark on a new chapter filled with possibilities and excitement.
Meanwhile, Courtney's nursing career flourished as she transitioned from oncology care to pediatric nursing, culminating in her current dream role at Guide Dogs for the Blind, where she plays a critical role in empowering visually impaired individuals through the companionship of guide dogs.
As a family, the McGarry’s embody the spirit of adventure, whether it's exploring the great outdoors, spotting wildlife, or embarking on epic road trips. Their bond, forged through shared experiences and unwavering support for each other's endeavors, serves as a beacon of inspiration for the Oregon Tech community and beyond.
Their story is a testament to the transformative power of education, the pursuit of passion, and the resilience to navigate life's twists and turns. We couldn't be prouder to witness the remarkable journey of the McGarry's and the indelible mark they continue to leave on the world around them.