Category Archives: Fort Bend County

TSTC Welding Technology students show off skills at competition

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Eight Texas State Technical College Welding Technology students showed off their skills at the 2021 Andrew Noppe Memorial Welding Competition.

Omar De La Cruz Moreno finished fourth in the Level 1 competition in which he had to weld a single-sided vertical groove on a carbon steel plate using the shielded metal arc welding process. Moreno’s piece passed the visual and X-ray examinations to earn certification in the welding process.

Moreno was not alone in earning certification honors during the competition, which was held at R&N Manufacturing in Cypress.

Jerroll Hodge, a TSTC welding instructor, said four students earned certification on April 24 for passing both the visual and X-ray examinations. 

Jacob Picazo earned certification on the Level 2 shielded metal arc welding process for his work on a pipe.

In the Level 3 event, Jose Perez Jr., Angel Rodriguez and Mason Stanley  earned certification for their work on a pipe using the gas tungsten arc welding process for the root pass and shielded metal arc welding process for the fill and cap passes.

“The students enjoyed going to an event and competing,” Hodge said. “It also opened our students to the possibility of earning additional certifications on certain types of welds.”

Also representing TSTC was Zach Follis in Level 1 and Diego Almaraz and Nick Dunn in Level 3.

“Everyone was really into the activities being held at the competition. It was the first time we have attended an event like this, and I look forward to returning to additional contests,” Hodge said.

The Texas High School Welding Series hosted the event that featured 72 competitors from eight colleges. In addition to TSTC, competitors represented Arclabs Welding School, Elite Pipe Welding Academy, Lamar Institute of Technology, Mainliners Welding Academy, Precision Welding Academy and Wharton County Junior College.

Hodge said he learned of the event during a welding competition in Huntsville earlier this year. He discussed it with his students and completed the registration process.

“I beat the deadline by a few days, and I am glad we were there,” he said.

Hodge was also able to promote TSTC during the high school competition, which was held the same day. With more than 130 students from 12 high schools in attendance, Hodge spoke to as many students as possible.

“It was good to be able to watch the high school kids compete and talk to them about our program,” he said. “This was a great recruiting effort for us.”

Hodge hopes that attending the competition sparks more interest in his students and plans to study ways to host an event on campus in the future.

“It would be good for TSTC to showcase our facilities during a competition,” he said. “I hope we will be able to do that someday.”

TSTC Computer Networking and Systems Administration program blends hands-on and online learning

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Computer Networking and Systems Administration at Texas State Technical College brings the digital world to life for students enrolled in the program.

Instructor Emanuel Palacios discussed the highlights of the field, as well as what students can expect during their time in the online program and beyond.

“This program will provide students with the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to perform in a variety of technology roles,” he said. “A few of the common job titles that our alumni currently have include network or systems technician and administrator, technical consultant, cloud architect, cloud technical trainer, and security analyst, to name a few.”

While there are many reasons why this program is particularly unique, Palacios said that the curriculum’s coursework speaks for itself.

“TSTC’s program is a member of the Cisco Network Academy and Amazon Web Services Educate,” he said. “There are several industry certifications that the coursework is designed around, such as Cisco’s Certified Network Associate certification and CompTIA’s Network+, Security+ and Cloud Essentials+ certifications.”

Despite being an online program, students are still required to complete labs that will enable them to get into various operating systems.

“Many of the courses have labs that are completed by remotely connecting to real servers and networking equipment hosted in a data center on a TSTC campus,” he said. “Understanding the physical infrastructure and maintenance is fundamental, but the vast majority of being hands-on in this field means knowing how to handle software and operating system configurations and installations.”

He said that those who are curious about technology will benefit from the program.

“If you enjoy playing with tech gadgets or brain games, that may be a good indication that you will not only do well in the field, but also love what you do,” he said. “Women tend to perform exceptionally well in computer networking, and I would highly encourage them to pursue that passion.”

Palacios added that like technology, this career will never get boring.

“The field is very rewarding, and jobs can be found in virtually any city,” he said. “The great thing about information technology is that the more skills you gain, the more valuable you become.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

 

TSTC instructor eager to teach students the realm of information technology

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Computer Networking and Systems Administration is the process of ensuring that the world is connected at any given moment. Texas State Technical College equips students in the program with the skills needed to conquer the ever-growing field.

Department chair Emanuel Palacios has been sharing his vast knowledge of the field with TSTC students for nine years after having spent time working in both information technology and as a systems specialist.

What inspired you to get into education?

Sharing what I know with others has always inspired me. A colleague who I think very highly of said I would do great as an instructor. I didn’t pay much mind to it at the time because I consider myself an introvert. The idea of speaking in front of others made me nervous. But I’ve always had a zeal for helping others, and technology is a passion of mine, so it came much easier than I had imagined when teaching others about technology.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I wholeheartedly enjoy having the opportunity to be a servant and a resource to students and colleagues. Seeing someone accomplish a goal is very gratifying.

Why is Computer Networking and Systems Administration important?

As time progresses, so will technology. It is easy to see the importance of the field, which will continue growing. The demand for skilled technicians to maintain those systems and networks will be par for the course.

Do you have any favorite TSTC memories?

No memory compares to the excitement of success and accomplishment that is witnessed as each student you taught walks the stage at their commencement ceremony.

To learn more about Computer Networking and Systems Administration, visit tstc.edu.

 

 

Computer Programming at TSTC prepares students for booming career

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Coding, JavaScript, and Python may seem like foreign languages to some, but for Texas State Technical College students enrolled in Computer Programming, they are as easy as the alphabet.

The program, which is taught online, prepares students to become problem solvers behind the scenes while not forgetting other vital components of career training, like project management and communication skills.

TSTC statewide department chair Shannon Ferguson and instructor Shelby Coffman discussed the program’s benefits and what students can expect to learn.

“Students enrolled in Computer Programming technology will work with industry-standard development tools and resources,” Coffman said. “Throughout their coursework, students use these tools to complete projects that simulate real-world scenarios. We want our students to achieve mastery by demonstrating their proficiency on the topics we cover.”

Ferguson added that the impact of a computer programmer is a lot closer than most people would assume.

“Behind every software, website, game and mobile application is a computer programmer who makes things happen,” he said. “Programmers are needed in every facet of business and industry. We live in a world where we have access to products, information, and resources to help us in our daily lives at the click of a mouse. Computer programmers make this possible.”

Ferguson and Coffman both agree that the quality curriculum available at TSTC makes a great impact on the learning outcomes of students.

“Technology, as well as industry demand, is continually changing and evolving,” Ferguson said. “Like most programs at TSTC, the Computer Programming department regularly reevaluates and adjusts our curriculum to meet the needs of industry partners and demand.”

Coffman said that the department also makes sure to stay competitive in the industry.

“We work closely with our departmental advisory board to ensure we teach the skills and topics that industry is looking for in prospective employees,” he said. “Our goal is to produce graduates that are ready for the workforce.”

According to the Texas Workforce Commission and https://www.onetonline.org/, the field is expected to grow by at least 10 percent over the next 10 years.

Both instructors have advice for students who are curious about the program.

“If you are interested in technology, how software works and can approach problems as solvable challenges, then you can be successful as a computer programmer.”

To learn more about the programs available at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

Photo caption: Computer Programming at TSTC is offered 100 percent online. (Photo courtesy of TSTC.)

Army veteran’s commitment to service continues at TSTC

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Once a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army, Kenneth Buford is utilizing his military skills to resonate with fellow veterans at Texas State Technical College as director of veteran recruitment at the Fort Bend County campus.

For the past 11 months, the Rosenberg native has brought his worldly experience to TSTC, and he is eager to continue helping those who have served in the U.S. armed forces.

“My military experience makes it easier to relate to the changes and challenges facing active-duty personnel,” he said. “It also helps with challenges of those who are transitioning out of military services and service members making career changes.

Buford said that assisting those with the same life experiences as his has made his job very rewarding.

“The ability to continue to serve, guide and assist my sisters and brothers in arms is a very humbling experience,” he said. “Although our contracted time in the service expires, the commitment that was made by each of us never will.”

As he rounds out his first year at TSTC, Buford thinks back on some of his favorite memories with gratitude.

“Working with the soldiers to create strategic plans capable of meeting their financial needs, while ensuring each of them receives the technical training necessary to sustain success, continues to be my fondest memory,” he said.

His commitment is easily recognized in his work.

“Words are not enough to describe that one moment in time while taking soldiers through a campus tour and you see their eyes light up with excitement,” he said. “That’s the moment you know that soldier just found their next great adventure and path in life.”

As far as his advice on education, Buford said that you cannot go wrong with following your passion.

“Do what you love and love what you do,” he said. “Never pass up an opportunity to help another student or ask for help yourself. Not only are we all truly in this together, but no one can do it alone and claim true success.”

To learn more about veteran services offered at TSTC, visit https://tstc.edu/veterans.

February is Career and Technical Education Month. To learn more about the programs offered at TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

 

Kenneth Buford served in the U.S. Army for eight years and is now serving as director of veteran recruitment at TSTC. (Photo courtesy of TSTC.)

TSTC hosts digital event to educate students about abusive relationships

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College’s Office of Counseling and Student Rights and Responsibilities will host a digital event called “Love Is Not Abuse” on Thursday, Feb. 11, at noon in an effort to give students advice and statistics about abusive relationships.

TSTC student counselor Angela Dunn discussed what she hopes students will learn from the event, as well as what students should do if they have additional questions or are seeking more resources.

“Attendees will learn about healthy relationships and boundaries,” she said. “They will also learn about resources if they are experiencing dating violence or stalking.”

She said that college is a pivotal time in the personal lives of students, and this information will be beneficial to those in new relationships.

“It’s a crucial time for individuals to learn about red flags when they date,” she said. “Dating violence does not discriminate and can affect all genders, races, ages, cultures and socioeconomic levels.”

According to LoveIsRespect.org, dating violence affects 43 percent of female college students, and, according to JamaNetwork.com, it affects 27 percent of males.

Dunn wants students to utilize the digital event to ask as many questions as they need to.

“Our goal is to empower the attendees to reach out to resources if they are experiencing dating violence, as well as being able to provide resources to others,” she said. “Dating violence is typically not a singular incident, so it is important to know the steps to make sure students can safely exit a relationship.”

Should students have additional questions or want to talk to a counselor personally, Dunn said they should not hesitate to contact the Student Counseling department.

“Counselors are available at TSTC to assist students,” she said. “All communication with a counselor is confidential and at no cost to currently enrolled students.”

TSTC students who wish to participate in the “Love Is Not Abuse” digital event can go to https://tstc.edu/staysafe.

To learn more about TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

 

TSTC student triumphs over adversity

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – The encouragement of a friend and a charismatic instructor helped Shyann Kocurek make the decision to enroll at Texas State Technical College.

The El Campo native recently earned her Associate of Applied Science degree in Environmental Technology – Compliance while experiencing one of the greatest hardships in life. Now she is eager to get to work, and she is grateful for the help she received at TSTC.

“My best friend had just started working at TSTC and encouraged me to talk with an instructor named Ms. (Maria) Vaughan,” she said. “I ended up loving what she had to say about the Environmental Technology – Compliance program, and I enrolled the following semester.”

Vaughan spoke fondly of Kocurek.

“Shyann has shown a great amount of initiative from the very beginning of the program,” she said. “She is always striving to improve and get ahead of the game. She is strong, dedicated and motivated.”

Students in the Environmental Technology – Compliance program learn about how environmental and safety standards are combined. Vaughan said that the creativity involved in the curriculum made for class time that was never boring.

“Students learn about the environmental regulations, what they mean, how to implement rules, and in essence how to be compliant with federal and state regulations,” she said. “Sometimes it is like ‘Bill Nye the Science Guy’ in my lab.”

Kocurek was determined to complete the program, even as she suffered a devastating loss.

“My mom passed away in June,” she said. “I had a hard time trying to keep going to finish with my goal I had set for myself.”

But Kocurek persevered. She received TSTC’s Texan Success Scholarship, which she says helped alleviate much of the worry she felt about paying for the program she grew to love.

“That scholarship helped me,” she said. “At the time, I did not have the money to pay for the first payment on the payment plan that I was on, but that scholarship took care of almost all of my tuition. It saved me.”

Vaughan recalled the resilience shown by Kocurek.

“She is an amazingly strong young woman,” she said. “Seeing her pain and loss, and seeing her good work ethic come through during that time, she reminded me how important it is to remember our ‘why.’ It was easy to see that her ‘why’ is her love for her family.”

Kocurek has some advice for those who follow in her footsteps at TSTC.

“Set goals for yourself, and do not let anything deter you from those goals,” she said. “Always ask questions, no matter the situation. There is always someone at TSTC who is willing to help. Without asking questions, you do not learn, and if you do not learn, you do not grow.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC instructor receives Chancellor’s Award for Excellence

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Alan Sulak has been quietly imparting his vast knowledge of cybersecurity to Texas State Technical College students for a little over four years. His efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Recently he was named a recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence, a recognition given to TSTC staff and faculty who have shown selfless dedication to TSTC’s mission.

In an email, TSTC Chancellor and CEO Mike Reeser said that Sulak’s colleagues described him as being an exemplary leader and a trusted colleague.

Sulak discussed what the recognition means to him, and the importance of cybersecurity.

Why did you decide on a career in cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the subject of everything that is information technology-related today. With many years of experience in designing and implementing systems, including infrastructure and security appliances, it was a natural progression for me to move into the cybersecurity field.

What does it mean to you to have this recognition from your peers?

It is pleasing to see that my peers at TSTC have confidence in me and what I have been part of since I started. We really try to work together as a family at TSTC.

What do you think makes the cybersecurity program at TSTC different from that at any other college?

The Cybersecurity program tries to ensure that our students get hands-on experience in the latest technologies. We are also recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love making a difference to our students, as well as helping everybody at TSTC get their job done with excellence.

 

TSTC recently introduced a fast-paced Workforce Training cybersecurity boot camp that will feature eight industry-grade foundational courses to equip students with the knowledge they need to get them into the world of cybersecurity. To learn more, visit https://tstc.edu/workforce/bootcamps.

For more information about TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

 

TSTC’s Cybersecurity program prepares students for rapidly growing career

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – The world’s shift to all things digital means that cybersecurity will play an even bigger role in how we spend our time online.

Texas State Technical College’s Cybersecurity program is dedicated to teaching students what they need to know in order to thrive in their careers as cybersecurity analysts.

TSTC Cybersecurity instructor Alan Sulak said the curriculum that students are introduced to is similar to what they will experience once they begin their careers in the real world.

“We strive to ensure that our students get hands-on experience in the latest technologies,” he said.

Additionally, students are given insight into the process of job hunting.

“Students are assisted with resume writing and dressing for success, and they go through an interview practicum with TSTC’s Career Services,” said instructor Cesar Ibarra.

Sulak added that TSTC’s program boasts an important credential.

“We are recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.”

To receive such recognition, institutions must establish standards for cybersecurity curriculum and academic excellence, value community outreach and professional development, and actively engage in solutions to issues that may arise in cybersecurity.

“Cybersecurity is not just important for our safety, but it is a way of life that we have to live,” Ibarra said. “I usually tell my students to follow two important ways of living: Keep things confidential, and have integrity.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst jobs are expected to grow by 31 percent through the end of the decade.

TSTC recently introduced a fast-paced Workforce Training cybersecurity boot camp that will feature eight industry-grade foundational courses to equip students with the knowledge they need to get them into the world of cybersecurity. To learn more, visit https://tstc.edu/workforce/bootcamps.

To learn more about TSTC, go to tstc.edu.

 

TSTC welcomes back students for spring semester

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – On January 11, Texas State Technical College welcomed back students to its Fort Bend County campus for the spring 2021 semester.

Some students, staff and faculty returned to campus on a limited basis, following TSTC’s coronavirus safety guidelines. While some courses are being taught online only, others are a combination of online classes and in-person labs.

TSTC Associate Provost Bryan Bowling was eager to welcome students to TSTC and said that a new semester is the steppingstone to a gratifying career.

“This will be the year you recall as a new beginning,” he said. “A student’s decision to enroll at TSTC represents a critical point of origin on a life-altering journey that can lead to a lucrative career.”

Environmental Technology instructor Maria Vaughan added that she knows this year will be a positive one.

“As we start the year, students should be curious about their purpose,” she said. “It is going to be a great semester.”

TSTC is dedicated to helping enhance the Texas workforce by equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in the most in-demand careers.

Established in 2016, the Fort Bend County campus offers more than 10 technical programs that can give students the training needed for a successful career.

TSTC’s coronavirus safety protocols include wearing face masks while on campus, social distancing, and designated entrance and exit doors.

To learn more, go to tstc.edu.