TSTC students practice social distancing during lab sessions

(SWEETWATER, Texas) – A limited number of Texas State Technical College students returned to campus Monday, May 4.

Students allowed back on campus are studying in programs that require them to complete hands-on lab work in order to finalize their semester. While on campus, students and instructors practiced social distancing guidelines and wore face coverings at all times.

Students were glad to be back on campus and have social interaction with classmates.

“I am excited to be back,” said Diesel Equipment Technology student Jacob Rambo, of Wichita Falls. “While we were away, I did a skills test and had to align my own vehicle.”

Devyn Johnson from Lubbock, who is also a Diesel Equipment Technology student, said he spent time at work and with his family while away from campus.

“It feels good to be back. I missed the bonding with my friends and the coming together we had before getting started with class,” he said. “I have learned a lot from these guys.”

The return to on-campus instruction is specifically authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which has identified career and technical education as one area of education that may continue under the Texas governor’s Executive Order No. GA-16.

“CTE programs that require hands-on instruction that cannot be delivered online can continue to be delivered, but in strict accordance with CDC guidelines,” the executive order states.

“It is good to be back in the groove,” said Diesel Equipment Technology student David Wilson, of Brownwood..

Welding students in Sweetwater were also excited to be back on campus. Brian Naza, of Colorado City, admitted he did not do any welding at home.

“It is important that I improve my cutting and torch skills,” he said about what his focus would be on during the on-campus lab sessions.

Welding student Hector Mendez, of Senora, said returning to campus was a fresh start.

“I am looking forward to finishing what I started. I want to make good grades and put my skills to use,” he said.

Mendez said that before starting the lab session, his classmates talked about what they did during the past five weeks.

“We were really glad to see each other, but more importantly we want to finish and graduate,” he said.

For more information about how TSTC has prepared to return students to campus, visit https://tstc.edu/coronavirus.

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

Small number of students head back to TSTC to complete coursework

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – On Monday, May 4, Texas State Technical College was a little less lonely as some students made their way back to campus to finish lab hours required before they graduate.

 

The return to TSTC was authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which has identified career and technical education as one area of education that may continue under Gov. Abbott’s Executive Order No. GA-16. Following strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the implementations set forth by the governor, TSTC was allowed to open its doors to students for the first time in seven weeks.

 

“It feels a little weird because it’s so quiet,” said Emergency Medical Technician student Justin Vasquez.

 

Vasquez, who is about to wrap up hours for the Emergency Medical Services program, expressed appreciation for how TSTC helped students adjust to continuing their education remotely.

 

“The virtual meetings with our instructors were awesome,” he said. “We were kept up to date not only on coursework, but also on potential returns to campus. The communication in general was maintained really well.”

 

Aviation maintenance instructor Leo Guajardo shared the eagerness students are experiencing as they get back to work.

 

“My students are excited to get back into a rhythm,” he said. “The team and I are ready to make mechanics.”

 

Several protocols were put into place to ensure that students and instructors were able to get back to learning in a safe environment.

 

“They’re disinfecting everything before and after we use them,” said Vasquez. “The labs that we’re doing are primarily solo, but the fact that they got us back on campus with all the safety guidelines is amazing.”

 

The anticipation to get back to campus wasn’t only felt by TSTC students.

 

“I love my job,” said Guajardo. “I am ready to get to work.”

 

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

 

TSTC Students Return to Campus in Waco

(WACO, Texas) – Some students returned to Texas State Technical College’s Waco campus on Monday to a new way of conducting classes due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The students who returned will be taking intensive labs to complete the spring semester, which is projected to end May 29. The return to on-campus instruction is authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which has identified career and technical education as an area of education that can continue under Gov. Greg Abbott’s Executive Order No. GA-16. Programs must meet guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“I am excited to welcome back our students to the Waco campus,” said Patti Tate, interim provost. “I cannot wait to see the different face coverings that our students have made or purchased. We have a creative student body, and I know they will not disappoint.”

Classrooms and labs looked a little different upon the students’ return.

Jannifer Stimmel, an instructor in TSTC’s Auto Collision and Management Technology program, said she rearranged work tables so students could be 6 feet away from each other. She also emphasized to students the need to sanitize and wear safety glasses, gloves and face coverings.

Students in Stimmel’s Basic Paint Techniques, Equipment and Environmental Practices class walked in Monday morning having already heard the semester’s lectures online. They began the day sanding and scuffing panels.

Stimmel said she was glad to see the students in class. .

“As a teacher without students, you are missing a part of yourself,” she said.

Mason McClanahan, of Tomball, an Auto Collision and Management Technology – Refinishing Specialization major, said it felt great being back on campus.

“Hands down, it feels good to get work done,” he said.

Cody Musia, lead instructor in TSTC’s Welding Technology program, said he and other faculty members designated entrances and exits where students sign in and out of their portion of the Industrial Technology Center. 

Yellow and orange stripes were painted on the floor in front of each welding station. The colors indicate a morning and an afternoon session for students as they convert to six-hour “shifts” in the lab.

Musia said students heard lectures while they were away from campus. And, he said online lectures will continue this summer, with students coming to campus to work in extended labs.

Michele Brown, lead instructor in TSTC’s Culinary Arts program, said she met each Monday since late March with her Fundamentals of Baking class to conduct lectures and give quizzes. The students even sent photos and videos to her to show off their progress.

She said she understood the challenges some students had, including having to share a computer at their home, poor internet service and balancing family life. Upon the students’ return, the class has adjusted to new social guidelines by being split into two groups that meet on different days of the week.

Students in other programs also were eager to return to campus.

Colleen Jones, an Instrumentation Technology major from West, said she was ready to go back to the classroom.

“We are excited to get back together,” said Jones, who is also a campus general academics tutor. “We have to stay 6 feet apart. We are excited to finally see each other and collaborate on our projects to finish. It has been hard to do on our own.”

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

TSTC Culinary Arts Students Have Online Celebration

(HUTTO, Texas) – Five candidates for graduation in Texas State Technical College’s Culinary Arts program in Williamson County were honored Friday with a teleconference celebration.

Nelson Adams, a TSTC Culinary Arts instructor, said the online gathering was an idea the students developed and brought to him to implement. 

The candidates for graduation are Victoria Cruz, Chasey Davis, Davyn Garcia, Nicole Hanks and Luis Rodriguez. Most of them already have jobs in the Austin area.

“That has been par for the course for this group, and I have been lucky to simply be a conduit to make their great ideas come to life,” Adams said. “They are a phenomenal group of students that I am proud to say are ready for the workforce.”

The celebration’s guest speaker was Chad Blunston, executive chef at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Round Rock. He encouraged the students to respect their work and listen to others to learn.

“Make good decisions, be dedicated to your team, yourself and to your owner,” Blunston said. “Your role is to master and learn and pass it on to someone else.”

Lissa Adams, TSTC’s associate provost in Williamson County, thanked the students for their work not only in class, but  also outside of it — baking cookies to decorate at Halloween, preparing Thanksgiving dinner for employees and catering special events.

“You are a special cohort,” she said. “We hope that you will come back and visit us. We do accept deliveries.”

Mark Schneider, statewide director of TSTC’S Culinary Arts department, told students to share knowledge with humility and keep practicing their skills.

“It is special how you bonded and supported each other in the kitchen,” he said. “I think that will flow into your work sites.”

Schneider encouraged the students to compete in culinary contests.

“I can tell you through experience, once I got in the competition arena, I met those chefs, judges and mentors that saw something special and put me in the right place at the right time and moved my career forward,” he said.

Michael Smith, senior field development officer for The TSTC Foundation, surprised the students by announcing the organization will cover their first year of membership in the American Culinary Federation. He also encouraged the students to join the TSTC Alumni Association.

“You have a local leadership that truly cares about this program,” Smith said.

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

TSTC graduate finds career in computer programming

(ABILENE, Texas) – Haley Howdeshell started taking Computer Programming Technology classes at Texas State Technical College only knowing the basics.

Howdeshell is graduating this semester with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Even before receiving the degree, she has found a career opportunity at Funeral Directors Life in Abilene.

“They have so many career paths available,” she said. “I am pretty much set for life. It is thanks to TSTC that this happened, and I have a goal of staying here and working my way up.”

Howdeshell said that even though she did not have much experience with computers, Computer Programming Technology was a perfect fit.

“The more that I looked into the program, the more in love with it I became,” she said. “The only experience I had was turning on my computer at home and working on it. A lot of people do not even know how to hook up a printer. I really enjoyed my time in class and the labs.”

She credits her instructors, including Julie Rhoades, for opening her eyes to a different career.

“TSTC has a lot of different people there to help you,” Howdeshell said. “They helped me with my resume and coached me for interviews. TSTC showed me how to carry myself and provided me with a lot of good tips and tricks during the interview process.”

Rhoades knew Howdeshell would succeed.

“Haley has been a responsible student who’s dedicated to getting her work complete and submitted on time. She actively sought employment before she graduated and was able to dedicate hours to the job search, and the position she landed, while continuing her school work,” Rhoades said. “She has the self-discipline required to complete her goals and succeed in life.”

Rhoades had pulled Howdeshell aside to tell her about the Funeral Directors Life job opening.

“She was always helpful and encouraging to the students,” Howdeshell said. “I really appreciated what she did for me.”

TSTC prepared Howdeshell for a career, and she hopes more students, especially high school students, take advantage of the available programs.

“TSTC does some amazing things for students,” she said.

Howdeshell said she had one goal when she started at TSTC.

“I knew I was going to have to work hard. Graduation was my goal, and I graduated,” she said.

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

Instructor celebrates one year of giving knowledge at TSTC

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Jaime Romo is not your average physics instructor. With a background in bioengineering and astronomy, his livelihood includes bringing stellar learning straight into the classroom at Texas State Technical College.

“I have always been curious about nature,” he said. “I wanted to know how things work and why things work. This initially led me down my path to my interest in physics.”

While that interest was initially sparked by curiosity about his surroundings, it was lending a helping hand to those around him that ultimately guided his path to education.

“I realized that I found it easy to help my former classmates when they were struggling with something,” he said. “I genuinely enjoyed their feedback when they mentioned the clarity of my explanations to them; it was during these moments that I knew teaching would be perfect for me, especially in higher education.”

While his journey with TSTC only began one year ago, the 27-year-old reiterated that he already feels embraced by his new higher-education family.

“I was always shy and kept to myself, but the faculty and staff at TSTC are so heartwarming,” he said. “They welcomed me to their team with open arms, and since then I’ve met many interesting people who have given me the courage to be the best I can at what I do.”

Romo believes that instructors are some of the most vital keys in providing the gift of education.

“We are the foundation of knowledge for potential learners,” he said. “I find so much satisfaction in instilling just a bit of curiosity to people so that they can go on and experience nature through a different point of view.”

Outside the classroom, Romo enjoys staying active. The competitive nature of playing soccer is one of his biggest passions.

“It’s so exhilarating to take the field,” he said. “I am so focused on what’s going on between those white lines that it feels like I teleport to a completely different world that is worry-free, and I only have one goal: to win.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

 

TSTC counselor helps students during social distancing

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Licensed professional counselor Angela Dunn makes it her mission to help Texas State Technical College students whenever and wherever the need arises.

Serving both the Fort Bend County and Harlingen campuses, Dunn aims to provide mental health counseling, programming and awareness to students. In helping to deal with our new normal, she discussed a few beneficial strategies that people can use to cope with social distancing.

“I have a heart for helping, and I love seeing that spark that happens when a student finds their passion and life falls into place,” she said. “I enjoy the process of self-discovery and watching someone learn to love and accept themselves.”

Currently, we are all adjusting to a new normal.

“Things are so uncertain right now, but one of the easiest things we can control is our schedule,” she said. “Having a sense of control can lower your anxiety levels, and knowing what to expect from day to day can lower your stress. Set a schedule where you wake up at the same time every day and go to sleep at the same time every evening.”

This advice also is great for parents to help children whose school schedules have been disrupted.

“Children crave predictability, and having a set schedule will make them feel more comfortable during this time.”

While an essential part of social distancing is making sure we stay inside and away from others, it is important that we step outside safely for a few moments when we can.

“Sunlight helps us in two ways,” she said. “We absorb vitamin D from the sun, which boosts our mood levels. Sunlight also helps regulate our melatonin production, which is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a role in sleep. Take a walk outside, open a window, sit on your back porch or take your pet for a walk.”

Above all else, social distancing practices have made utilizing new technology optimal during this time.

“Use (social media) to connect with friends and family,” she said. “Try to check on someone every day. It is OK to feel lonely during this time. Many people feel the same way that you do. Reaching out and talking about your feelings or asking how others are feeling will make you feel better.”

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

 

 

Health Information Technology graduate ready to step into the health care field

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Inspired by her mother, who was a nurse case manager, Natalie Hudson-Rapp knew as a teenager that she wanted to work in health care. Texas State Technical College’s affordability and Health Information Technology program enticed the Colorado native to further her education. Along that journey, she achieved many accomplishments, including wrapping up her time at TSTC in an exceptional way.

“If someone had told me two years ago that I would be graduating with honors, I would have said they were crazy!” she said. “If they had told me that I would be president of the local chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, I would tell them they were insane.”

Hudson-Rapp’s time at TSTC has not only well-equipped her for the future, it has also given her the chance to expand her leadership before this chapter of her life comes to an end.

 What motivated you to choose TSTC?

 I chose TSTC because it allowed me to return to school without breaking the bank.

 Who at TSTC has had the most influence on your success?

 My instructor Ana Gonzales. She has been my sounding board when I needed to vent. She has pushed me to my fullest potential because she believed in me. She let me cry in her classroom when I was so stressed that I thought I would break. Mrs. Gonzales not only did this for me, but she is willing to embrace all her students this way. She is part of what makes the Health Information Technology program successful and great.

 What are some unique aspects of the program at TSTC?

 I was drawn by the smaller size of the college. I am a hands-on learner, and the prospect of being able to apply what I am learning in a real-world setting was appealing.

 What is one of your favorite memories about the program?

 My favorite memories include my group of the most amazing ladies that have now become friends. We all entered the program at the same time, but it wasn’t until three semesters in that we really clicked. We have supported each other through school and personal issues. I would not have made it without them.

 Do you have any advice for future TSTC students?

 Get involved on campus. Take advantage of all the resources that are available, such as tutoring and the library.

To learn more about programs and extracurricular organizations at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

TSTC Program Offers Pathway to Water and Wastewater Work

(MARSHALL, Texas) – A fascination with chemistry, environmental science, health and safety can lead to jobs in Texas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators.

Graduates of Texas State Technical College’s Process Operations program in Marshall can pursue these jobs, along with those at chemical, gas and petroleum plants. The program exposes students to blueprint reading, industrial processes, physics, process instrumentation, and other topics.

“Our training is very broad-spectrum and can be applied to several industries that have a product requiring monitoring and control as it moves from raw material to finished product,” said Nicholas Cram, an instructor in TSTC’s Process Operations program.

The week of May 3 is Drinking Water Week as proclaimed by the American Water Works Association. The week’s theme, “There When You Need It,” celebrates the people  who keep our drinking water supply safe.

“It is important to recognize the critical role water infrastructure plays, every day, in ensuring our tap water is there when you need it for drinking, cooking and hygiene,” said David LaFrance, the AWWA’s chief executive officer.

Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators work to disinfect water, take samples, record meters, gauge readings and do equipment cleaning and maintenance.

Texas has more than 10,800 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Workers are tested and licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which also offers online and in-person continuing education courses for workers.

The city of Marshall’s water treatment facility can produce 10 to 15 million gallons a day, while its wastewater treatment plant can handle eight to 9 million gallons a day. 

Eric Powell, the city’s public works director, said his plant operators work 12-hour shifts during the round-the-clock operations.

The water treatment plant staff uses a supervisory control and data acquisition, or SCADA, system to monitor flow rates and other measurements.

“We do this via wireless and cellular connections and computer software,” he said. “That technology provides us an opportunity to manage remotely. Before that, you had to go to each facility and read a pressure gauge.”

Powell said technology for water treatment changes quickly and can often be costly.

“Wastewater treatment is very traditional,” he said. “The technology is the pumps, motors, filters and screens. It is not software- and computer-based.”

The federal bureau has projected more than 120,000 jobs nationwide up 2028, with people having automation and mechanical skills gaining better opportunities for employment. Powell said college internships are great opportunities for students to learn about water and wastewater work.

“You will always have a job because you need drinking water and there needs to be a place for wastewater to go,” Powell said. “You have to have a sense of public service in your head. We will always need young people to follow the retiring group.”

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

Kahl receives TSTC Chancellor’s Excellence Award

(ABILENE, Texas) – Carly Kahl believes in Texas State Technical College’s values.

Kahl, who has worked at TSTC for the past 12 years, received a 2020 Chancellor’s Excellence Award for her dedication to the college and willingness to help others.

“The teammates who win this award model excellence for us all and are recognized for both their sound character and for advancing TSTC’s mission,” said TSTC Chancellor & CEO Mike Reeser. “Due to their caring and dedicated efforts, TSTC continues to make a difference in the employment success of our students.”

Kahl, a graduate of Andrews High School, is a Social/Behavioral Science master instructor in Abilene. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from McMurry University and a Master of Arts degree from Georgia College in Milledgeville, Georgia. She is currently working on a Ph.D. at Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this award, and I am excited to join the ranks of previous Chancellor’s Excellence Award winners,” she said.

As an assistant department chair, Kahl does more than teach students. She leads the TSTC General Education department at the Abilene, Breckenridge, Brownwood, and Sweetwater campuses, as well as with other department chairs statewide within the department.

“I love that I get to do so many things at different levels,” she said. “I enjoy meeting and working with various departments and divisions across the state who all have a common mission: Place more Texans in great-paying jobs. The General Education department is full of wonderful faculty, and I couldn’t ask for better team members. I also love teaching students, and I especially love seeing that moment when students get it, when something they’ve been thinking about clicks and understanding happens.”

Kahl’s willingness to help her students and others is among the reasons she received the award.

“Each year TSTC employees have an opportunity to nominate fellow employees who display our core values on an ongoing and consistent basis. Regardless of their daily demands, these nominees have risen to the top through their dedication to TSTC customers, both internal and external,” said Rick Denbow, provost at TSTC in West Texas. “With multiple levels of vetting, only a small percentage of those nominated are awarded the Chancellor’s Excellence Award.”

Kahl said she is excited about TSTC’s new commitment campaign, “Shaping You to Get Hired.”

“I believe our new commitment campaign is a game changer. Companies want employees with good communication and professional skills, and (the) campaign ensures that all our students have the chance to learn those essential skills,” she said.

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.