Category Archives: Fort Bend County

TSTC Medical Office Specialist certificate program offers virtual hands-on learning

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Health Information Technology instructor Sarah Brooks has taught at Texas State Technical College for 17 years. Her excitement upon discovering the many opportunities available in health information guided her to a career as department chair at TSTC.

Brooks discussed the advantages of earning a Medical Office Specialist certificate online, as well as the paths available for someone who studies the expansive field of health information technology.

What is the day-to-day career like for a medical office specialist?

It can vary, depending on job title and work setting. You spend the majority of your day in front of the computer, with little or no direct patient contact. Your main job function is to ensure the information found in the patient’s electronic medical record is timely, complete and accurate. This is typically a fast-paced working environment with little downtime.

What do you think the advantages are of earning a medical office specialist certificate online?

The advantages of earning any certificate or degree online is the flexibility that this learning environment offers. Many of our students work full time and have families of their own while taking courses online. Students are able to work on their course when they want, from where they want.

What are some of the best traits that a student should have to succeed in the program?

 Self-discipline, self-motivation and time management are traits that are critical in being successful as an online student.

Is the learning for this certificate still hands-on?

 Absolutely. In our program, the instructors make themselves readily available to each student by offering virtual office hours and virtual learning labs every week at various times throughout the day and evening. The program also utilizes a variety of real-world software applications that students will gain hands-on experience in.

What advice would you give to somebody who was considering enrolling in this program?

 Students need to know they are not alone. The instructor and students work together as a team, sharing their work, life and educational experiences during the online learning process.

To learn more about Health Information Technology at TSTC, visit https://www.tstc.edu/programs/HealthInformationTechnology.

Female receptionist working the computer.

TSTC student’s love of technology guides him to cybersecurity

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Texas State Technical College student Zachary Powers is about to receive his Associate of Applied Science degree in Cybersecurity and has some sound advice for those about to embark on their college journey: Never give up.

The Sugar Land native said that his love of technology is what pointed him in the direction of TSTC’s hands-on program.

Why did you decide to attend TSTC?

I knew TSTC would provide me with the hands-on learning experience that is going to allow me to succeed.

Who was your biggest support system during your time in college?

My instructor, Mr. (Timothy) Janssen. There were times that I wanted to quit, but he would challenge me, and this led to me excelling in my coursework.

Do you have a favorite TSTC memory?

In the Personal Computer Hardware course, we would have computer teardown and repair build-offs, which challenged us to learn about each other and taught us to work together.

What advice would you give to somebody who is about to start their first semester in college?

No matter what life throws at you, never give up. Use all the resources available, do not be afraid to ask your instructors for help, and create study groups.

What will you do after you graduate from TSTC?

I hope to get a career started in cybersecurity. My goal is to eventually be employed by the National Weather Service as a meteorologist or a researcher to help improve early warning systems to prevent loss of life.

To learn more about TSTC, visit https://www.tstc.edu.

 

 

 

TSTC begins new holiday tradition

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Texas State Technical College students are the heart of the “Culture of Caring” that TSTC prides itself on. Recently TSTC’s Advocacy and Resource Center in Fort Bend County gave Thanksgiving meals to some students to make their holiday a little cozier.

Advocacy and Resource Center coach Larissa Moreno discussed the importance of TSTC being there for students when they need it, and the start of a new tradition for TSTC in Fort Bend County.

Who received the Thanksgiving meals?

Several students who are attending TSTC in Fort Bend County received the meals. The groceries were free to the students and delivered by a local grocery store.

How did you decide who would be the recipients of the meals?

Several names were given to us by faculty and staff. We also utilized our own caseload.

Why did the Advocacy and Resource Center decide to give away Thanksgiving meals?

Part of TSTC’s Culture of Caring is to support and assist students who are food insecure. Hunger should not be an obstacle in reaching their academic goals.

Providing a Thanksgiving meal for students is a tradition I wanted to start for our campus. This year, we had groceries delivered to students so they could enjoy a safe and fulfilling Thanksgiving meal in their own home. When I speak to our students, they have such a positive attitude and are focused on getting their education. I want them to stay that way. I want our TSTC students to know that the Advocacy and Resource Center is here to help them if life throws them a curveball, or if they need assistance with food, child care, books or tools. We can find the resources.

The Advocacy and Resource Center is available to TSTC students who are in need of assistance on their collegiate journey. For more information, visit https://tstc.edu/student_life/caring.

 

Environmental Technology at TSTC offers industry-specific training

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Environmental Technology at Texas State Technical College offers training for a diverse array of career opportunities, ranging from environmental field technician, environmental consultant and environmental specialist.

The program is not only extremely hands-on, but it is also taught by instructors who are just as passionate about education as they are about the fields they love.

“The Environmental Technology program provides students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of subjects related to how we manage the protection of our environment, communities and wildlife,” said instructor Maria Vaughan. “It encompasses multiple industries and provides the candidate with industry-specific training.”

The program delves into fundamentals of environmental safety and protection in ways that can fully prepare students for their careers after they graduate.

“Students can expect to learn how to decipher complex regulations and how to apply them,” Vaughan said. “For example, they will learn how to handle and manage waste, and they participate in specialized training and laboratory exercises for industrial hygiene.”

Students also train in labs that instruct them on how to perform air, water, soil and waste sampling. Students even learn how to perform site assessments and perform mock audits across various subjects related to environmental technology, which make those who enjoy the technicalities of analytics great candidates for the program.

“Analytical thinkers, students with mathematical skills and who are detail oriented will enjoy environmental technology — someone who enjoys and cares about the environment and people, and who wants to make a change in the world,” she said.

The Environmental Technology program is always progressing to add even more skill sets to the curriculum. Beginning in fall 2021, the Environmental Technology and Occupational Safety Compliance Technology programs at TSTC will merge to generate a new and improved Safety and Environmental program.

Students enrolled in this program will learn the skills required for environmental technology, as well as safety prevention, safety training and job site hazard-control methods. They will also be required to obtain an internship prior to completion.

“This is a huge benefit to our students because it gives them the best of both worlds,” Vaughan said. “More companies are looking for individuals who can perform both environmental and safety duties and comply with both sets of regulations. Safety and the environment go hand in hand.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

 

TSTC hosts Rosenberg Army recruiting station on Veterans Day

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Texas State Technical College welcomed an Army recruiting station to its Fort Bend County campus on Veterans Day.

An avionics system vehicle was situated on the parking lot in front of the Brazos Center on Wednesday afternoon. Upon request, the Army recruitment team gave tours of the vehicle to any present military personnel and TSTC students while following coronavirus safety guidelines.

TSTC’s Director of Veteran Recruitment Kenneth Buford said this showcase is yet another way that TSTC can show its commitment to our service members.

“Highlighting this showcase enhances transparency and reaffirms our commitment to the community and to our veteran population,” he said. “It provides an extraordinary opportunity for our TSTC family to extend an open and warm invitation for any who may be willing to join us in celebrating our military service members of the past, present and future.”

He added that the showcase also brought about a chance for surrounding areas to see what TSTC can do for veterans in the community.

“This presents TSTC with the opportunity for increased public awareness, visibility and military support,” he said. “It is vital that we come together, support our military, support one another, and create pathways capable of securing more Texans and Texas veterans in higher-paying careers.”

One of TSTC’s goals is to help military personnel with a seamless transition when their time in the service is over.

To learn more about TSTC and the options available to veterans, visit https://tstc.edu/veterans.

 

TSTC to host virtual job fair for its students and alumni

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College is committed to helping its graduates find jobs in their respective fields. Next week, TSTC students will be given the opportunity to find their new careers during the college’s Virtual Job Fair.

The event, which is online due to TSTC’s coronavirus protocols, will take place on Oct. 29 and is open to TSTC students and alumni.

TSTC’s director of Planning and Special Events, Hannah Luce, said that despite not having a physical location, the job fair will work much as it traditionally would have.

“Those attending will still be able to visit with attending employers and network just as if it were an in-person event,” she said. “One of the differences is the format.  The job fair starts at 11 a.m., and each employer will be in their virtual booth every hour for 45 minutes.”

Luce said that because of this, students will have to be selective about which prospective employers they decide to visit. She also suggested that students be prepared with interview-related materials and dress appropriately, just as they would if the event were in person.

“Students should have a resume prepared before the job fair and make sure to dress to impress,” she said. “There will be video capability at the Virtual Job Fair, so students and alumni should make sure they look professional.”

TSTC’s director of Talent Management, Viviana Espinosa, said that students should also make sure they test their login information prior to the job fair.

“Students and alumni should make sure they can log in to hireTSTC,” she said. “They should make sure their profile is up to date, upload their resume, and register for employer sessions they are interested in.”

Ultimately the Virtual Job Fair aims to continue TSTC’s mission of helping students and alumni find well-paying jobs.

“Our purpose is to help our students and alumni find great-paying jobs in their chosen field,” Luce said. “It is very important that we continue to have a way to connect them to companies that are hiring in their fields.”

Espinosa added that despite the job fair being online, the dedication to making sure that students get hired is still the same.

“It is of utmost importance that we host the Virtual Job Fair and give our students the opportunity to connect with employers,” she said. “This is our first one, and we have over 100 employers from all over the state registered to participate. We are excited that our students will have the opportunity to access a wider network of employers.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

 

 

TSTC Environmental Technology instructor brings experience to the classroom

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Texas State Technical College Environmental Technology instructor Maria Vaughan brings knowledge and a passion for environmental safety into her classroom every day. Her time at TSTC has brought her not only many wonderful memories, but also a stronger sense of purpose as she continues to educate the future employees of the industry that she loves.

What inspired you to get into teaching?

Actually, I fell into teaching. One of the reasons was because most of the people I encountered within my industry did not understand the “how to”: How to take a water sample; how to take an air sample; how to write a sampling plan, an emergency response plan or other environmental and safety plans. It was amazing to me to see companies not know what environmental and safety regulations they were subject to or how to apply them. Teaching gave me the opportunity to give back the “how to” to students before they went into industry.

What did you do before teaching at TSTC?

Before TSTC, I worked with Parks and Wildlife, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and as a consultant. Each position had its merits and molded me into the environmentalist I am today. I am grateful for each experience and thankful that I am able to share my experiences with others.

What do you enjoy most about working with students?

A student once told me, “Ms. Vaughan, you are actually teaching us and training us for the real world.” I definitely enjoy when students realize that the education they are receiving at TSTC exceeds their expectations. There is a change in their demeanor and attitude toward the courses and with each other. Their want for education and the drive to get all they can from their instructors grows exponentially.

Do you have a favorite TSTC memory?

I think my most favorite memory was during an Environmental Toxicology class. The lesson included learning about chronic and acute illness, and the differences or similarities between the two. One of my students, out of the blue, said, “Ms. Vaughan is acute.” That brought the entire class to laughter.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC Graduate Profile: Marisela Ferrer

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Succeeding in a predominantly male field is nothing new for Marisela Ferrer. After taking welding courses in high school, the Beasley native wanted to further her skills in another surprising industry, and she chose to attend Texas State Technical College to receive a certificate in Diesel Equipment Technology. The 20-year-old is ready to get to work and has proven that she is not afraid to get her hands dirty.

Why did you decide to pursue Diesel Equipment Technology?

I took welding courses in high school. Welding is a male-dominated field, and it showed me the perspective of entering a male workplace. While I enjoyed the work, I enjoyed proving people wrong more. I then decided to prove a point by getting my degree.

Do you have any favorite TSTC memories?

My favorite memory is when I was a part-time worker. We had on-campus events, and the other programs got to interact with one another. We had a water dunk tank and snow cones. The staff and I participated in the dunk tank.

How has TSTC helped prepare you for your career?

They helped me by showing me what day-to-day scenarios would be like in a real-life situation. I was given a lot of insight on jobs and what to be aware of.

Did you face any challenges on your journey to graduation?

The most challenging thing that happened on the road to graduation was becoming a mother and having to balance new parenthood while having schoolwork.

What has been your greatest sense of accomplishment to date?

Despite all the hardships and setbacks of working full time and being a parent, I managed to get my certificate before age 21.

What words of advice would you give to others who are about to start their journey at TSTC?

Take the experience seriously, and attendance is key. While the campus is fun and offers a lot to do, don’t get too distracted.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC Graduate Profile: Stanley Harris

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Stanley Harris recently received his Associate of Applied Science degree in Welding Technology from Texas State Technical College. The job security that comes from a career in welding is what motivated him to pursue welding technology, and he is thankful for the education he received while at TSTC.

What was your experience like at TSTC?

My experience at TSTC was great. The instructors really showed a lot of care when it came to the education of all us welders in the class, and they pushed us beyond our limits when it came to the skill of welding.

Do you have any favorite TSTC memories?

My favorite TSTC memory has to be all the hard work I put into welding every day, and learning via Moodle, allowing me to become a better welder. That made me very proud.

How has TSTC helped prepare you for your career?

TSTC equipped me with all the tools and knowledge I need to know in the field, so I know I will succeed.

 What words of advice would you give to others who are about to start their journey at TSTC?

Every day, put your focus toward mastering your craft. It is your future.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC Graduate Profile: Frederico Luna

(ROSENBERG, Texas) – Frederico Luna knew he wanted to become a lineman after seeing the disaster brought on by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. This semester, he graduated from Texas State Technical College with a certificate of completion in Electrical Lineworker Technology.

What was your experience like at TSTC?

My experience at TSTC was amazing. The instructors work with you one-on-one, and as a student you begin to understand that once you begin this career path, there are no shortcuts to becoming a lineman. You have to be 100 percent focused and dedicated all the time. While in school, I learned through hands-on experience and by observing our instructor show us how to do something. All of us would observe one another through the courses and learn from our mistakes as a team.

Do you have any favorite TSTC memories?

My favorite memory I have is when I was finally capable of going sideways on the lineworker pole. It seemed scary at first, but you trust in your gear to hold you, and it makes you feel safer. It felt amazing, and I enjoyed that memory.

How has TSTC prepared you for your career?

TSTC has prepared me for the journey once I start working. I was taught the basics about how to set up crossarms, double crossarms. I now know my knots and my transformer connections, and so much more. Our instructor taught us so many methods to do these processes because not every company does things the same way.

What would you say is your greatest accomplishment?

My son, Jonah. A month after I graduated high school, my son was born, and I became a teen dad. Juggling school, work and the new responsibility of being a parent was not easy. But I knew that I wanted what was best for my family, and that pushed me to focus on my education.

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