TSTC Instructor Leaves Behind a Business to Pass On His Knowledge

(FORT BEND) – Gary Voelkel, a seasoned professional in the field of diesel technology, has been with Texas State Technical College since 2003 as the Diesel Equipment Technology – Heavy Truck Specialization instructor. However, this is not Voelkel’s first time at the college.

Voelkel graduated from Texas State Technical Institute (TSTI) in Waco in 1978 with a certificate in heavy truck mechanics. TSTI was renamed TSTC in 1991 and in 2006, Voelkel graduated from TSTC in Waco with an associate degree in Heavy Truck Specialization.

Prior to coming to TSTC, Voelkel worked for Halliburton in the marine division traveling around the world and maintaining vessels out at sea, and Coca-Cola as a lead mechanic, before opening his own shop in El Campo working on heavy equipment such as tractors and trucks for a decade.

“At or around 10 years, one of my suppliers told me TSTC was needing help,” said Voelkel. “It was perfect timing for me to make a change. So I took the opportunity. I just waited for my employees to find jobs elsewhere before closing.”

Voelkel said he does not regret the decision he made. He was excited to share the extent of his knowledge with others to help build successful careers. Voelkel describes his first year of teaching as an “experience of a lifetime.”

“It’s impossible to learn everything there is to know about diesel mechanics, but my job is to teach the basic concepts and functions and give them the hands-on training they need,” said Voelkel. “I teach them everything the truck industry needs and the skills the truck industry is looking for, so when they leave TSTC they get hired.”

Students in Voelkel’s class have the opportunity of graduating and landing positions with big companies in the industry such as Walmart, Holt Caterpillar, Peterbilt and Kenworth.

“Mechanics is not a trend that will not die any time soon. We’ll always need clothes, food and other supplies transported,” said Voelkel. “The trucking industry is here to stay.”

Voelkel said his overall goal in the classroom is to teach students all of the latest technologies, since trends are always changing.

“With our new campus opening this fall, I hope to see my program grow,” said Voelkel. “I want to remind students to make sure when choosing a major they choose something they love. This isn’t just a job, it’s a career and future.”

Diesel Equipment Technology is also offered at the Marshall, North Texas, Sweetwater and Waco campuses.

For more information on Diesel Equipment Technology with a specialization in heavy trucking at TSTC in Fort Bend County call Voelkel at 281-239-1588.

Registration for summer and fall 2016 begins April 4. Apply or register anytime online at tstc.edu.

Gary Voelkel has been with TSTC since 2003 as the Diesel Equipment Technology – Heavy Truck Specialization instructor.

TSTC Making a Texas-Sized Difference

(HARLINGEN) – According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, almost half of all students who attend college drop out before ever getting a degree. Texas State Technical College is making sure its students do not become part of that grim statistic.

The TSTC Foundation has kicked off an innovative fundraising effort challenging supporters and alumni to Make a Texas-Sized Difference by donating to the Texan Success Scholarship.

“The goal is to grow TSTC, get our students in school and on track to complete a program and eventually enter the Texas workforce, explained Beth Wooten, vice president of Institutional Advancement. “This is bigger than just TSTC, this is about filling the skills gap in Texas and providing industry with the skilled workers desperately needed.”

All monies raised in the Make a Texas-Sized Difference Campaign will go to help students get a technical education. Those struggling through family or financial hardships might benefit most from this effort. For a student already on a tight budget, dreams of an education can easily be derailed by unexpected expenses brought on by a car accident, illness, a death in the family or other tragedy.

Last year, TSTC student Damian Salinas of Harlingen, Texas found himself homeless after his father lost his job and subsequently the family apartment. Thanks to a TSTC scholarship established by a generous donor, TSTC was able to help Salinas continue his studies.

“I was able to move into the dorms and stay in classes. Without the help given to me, I would literally have been on the streets,” explained Salinas. “I was about to drop out and instead because of a generous donor I was motivated to keep going. It changed the course of my life.”

Robinson, Texas native Casey Fitzgerald found himself in financial trouble when he had to cut his work hours by half in order to attend the required classes. Fitzgerald says the scholarship money he received from TSTC was a godsend.

“The money went to pay for tools needed for the program and everyday expenses like fuel to get to school,” said Fitzgerald. “I hope to get a good job when I graduate and be able to give back and help a future student who may be struggling like I was.”

TSTC is so committed to making sure students like Salinas and Fitzgerald have every opportunity to complete their studies, that administration leaders have announced every donation will be matched dollar per dollar. It’s an investment TSTC Chancellor and CEO Mike Reeser believes will pay off big for the state of Texas.

“A large number of well-paying jobs go unfilled in Texas because employers cannot find workers with the right blend of technical skills,” said Reeser. “At TSTC we teach those skills needed for these great jobs. We hope more students will be encouraged to consider the benefits of a technical education and the great jobs that result from them.”

To promote the statewide fundraising campaign, The TSTC Foundation has turned to industry leaders, long-time supporters, and alumni for support, especially in the ten communities that are home to TSTC campuses – Abilene, Breckenridge, Brownwood, Fort Bend, Harlingen, North Texas, Red Oak, Sweetwater, Waco and Williamson County.

“Community and business leaders are very involved in soliciting pledges in their prospective communities,” said Wooten. “And, industry, has been very supportive of our efforts. We are confident of getting major commitments and pledges from the very companies that hire many of our well trained graduates.”

To make a donation to the Make a Texas-Sized Difference Campaign, learn more about TSTC or giving opportunities to the college, go online at http://www.tstc.edu/tstcfoundation/annualscholarship/ or call 254-867-3900.

TSTC Student Hopes to Carry Out Dad’s Dream

(FORT BEND) – Houston native Salman “Sal” Maredia is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County studying Precision Machining Technology, a field his father inspired him to pursue.

“My dad always had a dream of opening his own automotive engineering shop,” said Maredia. “But he was our family’s provider so he needed to work and needed something with a quick turnaround. He went into real estate instead.”

Now, Maredia, who holds an impressive 3.8 grade-point average is working toward graduating in Fall 2016 with an associate degree, with hopes of transferring to a local university to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

“My dad has always told me that there is no such thing as impossible as long as I work hard and push myself,” said Maredia. “I’ll take this with me as I carry on with my dad’s dream.”

After graduating in the fall, the 25 year-old has his eye on a few companies he hopes to work for. He said he would like to improve his skills and gain experiences at places such as Schlumberger, Halliburton or General Electric.

But ultimately, Maredia’s dream job is to own an automotive engineering company, where he can manufacture parts for the automotive industry.

At the moment, Maredia said his greatest accomplishment has been being able to quickly learn the different types of machines he will be using in the field someday.

“The more I learn, the more skills I gain needed to build my career,” said Maredia.

The greatest lesson Maredia said he has learned is that he can do anything as long as he applies himself.

“There’s always going to be people who try to discourage you,” said Maredia. “But I just need to work hard to prove myself and remember my worthiness.”

In addition to his dad, who has always pushed him to do his best, Michael Barnes, Maredia’s Precision Machining Technology instructor, is another great influence in his current success as a student.
“He (Barnes) always pushes me, us, to do better,” said Maredia. “He really helps us hone our skills so we become all-around learners.”

Maredia said he hopes one day he can become an inspiration to others, as Barnes has been for him and his classmates, but for now he has some advice to share.

“Ask a lot of questions,” Maredia advises. “When I first enrolled I was a bit shy, but as time went on I learned it’s better to ask questions, it helps me understand everything so much better. Getting help is nothing to be ashamed of. There are no stupid questions.”

Precision Machining Technology is also offered at the North Texas, Waco and Williamson County campuses. For more information on Precision Machining Technology at Fort Bend County call 281-239-1548.

Registration begins April 4. Apply or register anytime online at tstc.edu.

Houston native Salman “Sal” Maredia is a student at Texas State Technical College in Fort Bend County studying Precision Machining Technology. He will be graduating Fall 2016 with his associate degree.

TSTC Student Pursues Interest in Global Communications

(HUTTO) – Marc Marzan has already gotten a taste of the telecommunications world during his first semester at Texas State Technical College.

Marzan, 23, of Hutto moved a telephone jack in a computer lab at the college’s East Williamson County Higher Education Center in Hutto. The work was good practice for the certificate he is working on. TSTC began the Global Communications System Installer certificate this semester.

“It has to do with transferring data to servers and how everything in the world connects with the data,” he said about the growing job field.

Claude Dyson, an instructor in the certificate program, said Marzan should not have a problem with his job hunting because there are not enough networking and fiber optics technicians in the country. Dyson said certificate holders can earn up to $35 per hour. The 2014 median pay for telecommunications equipment installers was $55,190, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Dyson is teaching Marzan in his classes.

“It one of a kind because I don’t think there is anyone that can get this kind of teaching,” Marzan said. “We go through the syllabus and once I understand and pick up something quickly, we move on. If there is anything I’m struggling on, I stop the instructor and make sure I understand and he clears it up for me.”

Marzan has enjoyed the hands-on work in the electronics and telecommunication classes he is taking.

“We are ahead in our syllabi so there is free time to do cool projects,” he said. “Right now I’m building a radio with the transistors, resistors, capacitors and circuit board.”

Marzan is originally from central Florida and joined his parents in Texas after visiting them. Before enrolling at TSTC, Marzan installed fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm panels and rebuilt fire extinguishers. He learned about TSTC and the certificate program after a relative told him about the Hutto campus.

Marzan has already interviewed with Austin-area businesses in the fiber optics field. But, he has bigger plans for his future.

“I want to work for somebody for now to figure out how the world works and the global communications terminology,” he said. “I look forward to one day starting my own company installing new phone systems, fiber optics and having contracts.”

The College Preview at TSTC will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 14. For more information go to tstc.edu/openhouse.

Apply today at tstc.edu. Registration for summer and fall semesters began Monday, April 4.

TSTC Uses the Latest Technology to Train Students

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College continuously aims at providing all of its students with training that includes the latest technologies being used in the industries. Recently, two programs at TSTC have made big investments for their students to prepare them for the workforce after graduation.

Telecommunications Technology and Architecture Design and Engineering Graphics have purchased drones that are the same ones used by companies their students have the possibility of working for after graduating from their programs.

“Having the opportunity of making this purchase and investment for our students in invaluable,” said David Sanchez, instructor for telecommunication technology. “This allows us to expose them and get them familiar with equipment they will use when they enter the workforce.”

The classes within telecommunications currently incorporating the drone into curriculum is Wireless Fundamentals and Introduction to Telecommunications. Students are given step by step instructions on how to properly handle the drone. This latest technology is then used to teach students how to complete aerial inspections of sub towers, compile the photos taken during flight and translate them into inspector reports.

“These drones are already being used by prominent companies such as AT&T, which hires a large number of our students,” said Sanchez. “This not only makes an inspector’s job easier, but it also reduces accidents out in the field.”

Sanchez said his department is also using the drone for research and recruitment purposes, to attract more students to the program.

“Everything is telecommunications, we use it every day,” said Sanchez. “And it’s not going anywhere as long as we all want to stay connected.”

With similar use, but under a different concept, Architecture Design and Engineering department chair David Campos has also included a drone in a couple of his classes.

Currently, the students in his Civil Design and Surveying courses use a drone to study land patterns and elevations. Students design the program that will control the drone and the readings it provides for their reports. Because this drone is designed to break apart at landing, they also learn how to assemble it.

“This is new technology in the Valley in terms of industry,” said Campos. “Our job is to expose our students to the changing technology.”

Campos said the drones cut the surveying workload in half, but he still makes it a point to train students on the traditional surveying systems.

“In order for students to truly appreciate the advantages of technology, they need to know traditional systems also,” said Campos. “It’s important that they become well-rounded in all aspects of surveying equipment.”

Francisco Gallegos, a student in Architectural Design and Engineering Graphics, said the training he received in this program has prepared him for the workforce. He expects to graduate in August 2016.

“Everything we’re learning how to use, like the drone, definitely opens doors for us,” said Gallegos. “Not a lot of programs have this type of opportunity, but here at TSTC we have every option available to us.”

For more information on Telecommunications Technology call 956-364-4732.

For more information on Architectural Design and Engineering Graphics call 956-364-4694.

Registration for summer and fall 2016 begins April 4. Apply online anytime at tstc.edu.

Student Success Story – Chris Calmes

(FORT BEND) – Chris Calmes, a Needville native, began his college career at a four-year university. He soon realized that he had made the wrong decision for himself. Calmes has always considered his learning style as hands-on, which helps him better understand the material he is studying, but he was not receiving that at a university level.

After much consideration, Calmes made the decision to enroll at Texas State Technical College, where he is currently studying Precision Machining Technology. He is slated to graduate this fall with an associate degree. Calmes said TSTC has been his best decision and looks forward to his future.

“I’ve always considered myself a hands-on learner,” said Calmes. “I tried pursuing a four-year degree, but it wasn’t for me and that’s ok, I know it’s not for everybody. I hope through my experience, others can see that a technical education is just as good, if not better.”

After graduating from TSTC, Calmes hopes to find a position in his field, where he can use his skills as a machinist to become a machine operator for a major manufacturing company. He said his ultimate goal is to become a mechanical engineer to take his career to the next level.

“Going back to a university may be an option for me in the near future,” said Calmes. “I love machining and I would like to grow within my field.”

Calmes said he is proud of his accomplishment this far. He has been receiving A’s and B’s and holds a 3.6 grade-point average.

“It hasn’t always been easy, especially constantly learning new material,” said Calmes. “But I’ve pushed through and realized just how important an education is.”

Calmes said he has learned that it is his education that will him support himself and live a good life.

“As long as I continue doing what I’m doing, I know I’ll be able to move up in life. No one can take this education away from me,” said Calmes.

Calmes’ biggest influence in his success at TSTC has been his instructor Michael Barnes. He said Barnes, from what he has seen, is a big influence for many and his program has led to success for numerous students.

“Mr. Barnes is the man with the knowledge,” said Calmes. “He’s always willing to lend a hand and he has a solution for everything. I couldn’t ask for a better instructor or better college experience.”

Precision Machining Technology is also offered at TSTC’s North Texas, Waco and Williamson County campuses.

For more information on Precision Machining Technology in Fort Bend call 281-239-1548.

Registration begins April 4. To apply anytime visit tstc.edu.

TSTC Instructor Finds Success and Love

(FORT BEND) – Success and love is what Kalli Ford found at Texas State Technical College in Waco. The Katy native graduated in 2011 with her associate degree in Welding Technology. After leaving college for several years to pursue her career she finds herself back at the place that started it all, this time as the welding instructor for TSTC’s new Fort Bend County campus.

Ford, a first generation college student, had several career options she wanted to pursue while she was in high school, until she took a welding class that changed everything.

“You could say I grew up in the garage with my dad,” said Ford. “He was a diesel mechanic and I was always helping him with something. So when I took welding in high school, it wasn’t too farfetched. I just didn’t expect to love it as much as I do.”

Ford’s interest in welding grew during this time in her life. So much so, that she let go of her dreams of enlisting in the military and becoming nurse, pursuing a career in marine biology, and becoming a teacher.

Ford said besides her love for welding, the cost of a college education was also a deciding factor.

“I didn’t grow up with a lot of money,” said Ford. “So to have my parents pay thousands of dollars for a university didn’t seem right to me. At TSTC, I got to study what I love and it was affordable.”

Immediately after TSTC, Ford was offered a position with Acute Technological Services, a Houston company that provides welding services to energy industries on- and-offshore. In her three years there, Ford had the opportunity to participate in a one-year NASA project working on the James Webb Space Telescope.

“If I had not studied at TSTC there’s no way I would have made it at Acute,” said Ford. “I learned all the skills I needed at TSTC and my instructors really prepared me for the workforce.”

Not only did Ford find her career at TSTC, but she also found her partner in life.. Her husband is also a welder and sat next her during class. They have been married for two years and are excited to see what the future holds for them.

As for Ford’s career, the future looks bright. She has accepted a position as the welding instructor at TSTC’s new Fort Bend County campus and will officially start August 2016..

“I’ve always loved teaching and now I can combine it with welding,” said Ford. “I also have a passion for helping people and this will definitely allow me to help others build successful careers.”

Ford said this career path was unexpected, but knows it was meant to be.

“TSTC definitely changed my life for the better,” said Ford. “I’ve already seen it change other lives as well and I’m ready to be a part of that.”

Welding Technology is offered at eight TSTC locations and will be offered in Fort Bend County beginning August 2016. For more information on the program in Fort Bend call 281-239-1548.

Registration for summer and fall 2016 begins April 4. You can apply online anytime at tstc.edu.

TSTC Culinary Arts Students Host First Food Festival

(HARLINGEN) – It was a full house at the Texas State Technical College Culinary Art’s first Food Festival. More than 50 people gathered at the TSTC Cultural Arts building to taste and experience cuisines from across the globe.

“I’m so impressed with what our students did here today and how they handled the crowd,” said Chef Emma Crepps, culinary arts department chair and instructor. “We didn’t expect to have this many people. The main objective was to help students learn how to showcase their food, and today’s event has made that possible.”

The food festival consisted of 14 teams made up of culinary art students who prepped and cooked dishes based on their chosen location. There were more than 40 items that attendees were able to sample. Everything from Peruvian, Indian to French and German cuisine was available.

TSTC Culinary Arts advisory board member and owner and chef of Rio Grande Grill Stefani Trimboli-Wright said she was impressed with what students had to offer.

“I make it my responsibility to get involved with these students. This is my hometown and we have a great culinary program here,” said Wright. “I’m impressed so far with a few students here and although I’ve only been able to hire one to help me with restaurant events, I can’t wait to hire and work with so many more.”

Wright called this event a perfect opportunity for the students to showcase their talents and for potential employers to see who stands out and who has real passion to take their career and food to the next level.

One team definitely made an impression with their German cuisine. Winning the People’s Choice Award, team leader Marianne Sanchez and her team Mike Meriwether and Nicolas Perez, earned the most votes from attendees to take home the medal. What did they cook?

“This win for our team today, is actually a win for all us,” said Sanchez. “I’m proud to accept this award for our team and for TSTC. Everything was well executed and all of our instructors are here today making sure we succeed while getting the experience we need.”

From Harlingen High School culinary students to Winter Texans, the feedback was positive and the food was enjoyed.

“This event was a great success,” said Crepps. “A lot of people have already approached me and asked if we’re going to do this again. This was amazing.”

For more information on Culinary Arts call 956-364-4755.

Culinary Arts is also available at our Abilene, Waco and Williamson County campuses. Registration starts April 4, apply online anytime at tstc.edu.

Student Success Profile – Jerry Gallardo

(HARLINGEN) – Jerry Gallardo from San Benito is a student at Texas State Technical College pursuing his associate degree in Auto Collision Technology. He is expected to graduate in Fall 2016. Gallardo recently received third place in the Auto Collision category during SkillsUSA. He earned a spot to compete at the SkillsUSA State Competition in April.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m looking forward to moving to San Antonio after I graduate. I plan on beginning my career in the auto collision industry there and getting the experience I need in the field.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to one day come back home and open my own auto collision shop in the Rio Grande Valley. I hope to build a successful business and in turn a successful life for myself and my family.

What has been your greatest accomplish at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC has been being able to keep up my high grades. Attending class to be able to do this has not always been easy because on some days it is tough finding a ride to school, but I have managed.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I learned that without an education my life was not going to get any easier for myself, or my family. Getting an education and earning that certificate or degree is the only way we will be able to live the life we deserve.

Name a TSTC person that has influenced your success?

The person who has influenced me the most is my instructor Mr. Jose Vasquez. His support and help really motivate me to succeed and work hard to do my best for my future career.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I would like future TSTC students to know that coming to TSTC is a great opportunity to move closer to the goal that they have set for themselves to become a successful person.

TSTC Employees Recognized for their Continued Excellence

Texas State Technical College has recognized two Harlingen employees for their efforts in starting up a new campus almost 300 miles away in Fort Bend County.

“They’re perfect examples of what our Harlingen culture brings to our statewide organization and of how Harlingen is helping us lead this statewide college,” said Texas State Technical College’s Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer Jonathan Hoekstra.

Both Mary Castañon, director of instructional administration and Fort Bend County project manager; and Gisela Figueroa, associate vice chancellor for financial services were the proud recipients of the much coveted Challenge Coin.

The Challenge Coin is a tradition that started during TSTC’s 50^th celebration last year and was initiated by Chancellor Mike Reeser as a way for TSTC’s senior leadership to recognize and reward employees who demonstrate an excellence in service and dedication to their duties.

“We wanted to recognize these two employees for their remarkable and continued contributions to statewide initiatives that are of high priority for us right now,” said Hoekstra.

.Hoekstra said there are three major priorities this fiscal year for TSTC and one is the opening of the new campus in Fort Bend County. He said Castañon, who has been with TSTC for 12 years, has worked endlessly on this project with her team and felt it was time to recognize her for her tireless efforts.

“Mary is the tip of the spear for our Fort Bend project,” said Hoekstra. “I have received a lot of positive feedback from her colleagues regarding her management and leadership over this initiative.”

Castañon is distinguished for her professionalism, her work ethic and positive attitude. Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning Ray Fried has been working closely with Castañon and said she is doing an excellent job at managing the startup of the new Fort Bend campus.

“I appreciate her organization of all the subject matter constantly being presented to our experts,” said Fried. “She has the most effective time management I have witnessed and has set a new standard for effective and efficient use of time.”

Figueroa, who has worked with TSTC for 13 years, is Hoekstra’s team lead in the finance division. Hoekstra said there have recently been some major changes that are critical to TSTC’s success and Figueroa has been a constant, positive and persistent leader for her team, even while struggling though significant obstacles.

“We’ve really had to move fast to serve the changing organization in procurement and Gisela really inspired her team to move rapidly in response to the change,” said Hoekstra. “She’s very dedicated to our mission and what we need to get done. Her incredible attitude, loyalty and dedicated service to the college is invaluable.”

Both Castañon and Figueroa said they were surprised and humbled to be recognized for such a prestigious honor.

“I am honored to receive such an award and surprised nonetheless,” said Castañon. “When I was given the opportunity to work with on this project a year ago I did not hesitate, rather I asked how I could be of service for such a grand initiative. We have faced challenges, but I’m fortunate to work with great people at TSTC and am happy to see great strides we are making in opening our campus in Fall 2016.”

“When my name was called I was very surprised. I did not expect such an honor,” said Figueroa. “I got excited and could hardly believe all the nice things that were being said about my contributions to the college. I am humbled and this gives me more fuel to continue working hard for TSTC.”

For more information on TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus and the programs offered visit www.tstc.edu/campuses/fortbendco.

Registration for Summer and Fall 2016 semesters begins April 4. Apply or register online anytime at tstc.edu.

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