(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Although Edna Claus has taught Business Management Technology at Texas State Technical College for 19 years, her time in higher education exceeds that. Before she came to TSTC, she served as associate director for academic computing at another institution.

Nearly three decades in higher education have brought her countless memories, and she is happy that this part of her journey has brought her to TSTC as lead instructor for Business Management Technology.

What inspired you to get into teaching?

My parents were teachers, and I was inspired by them. I found that I enjoyed developing curriculum and engaging with students. I love to hear from former students when they tell me that they are doing well and that they are successful in their endeavors.

What do you enjoy most about working with students?

I enjoy it when students have their own aha! moments. Whether it be with understanding the concepts of a course or with what they plan for their future, it is a joy to experience that with them.

Do you have a favorite TSTC memory?

My favorite TSTC memory was when I graduated with my associate of applied science in Information and Management Technology, and my father gave me my diploma. He was an instructor in the department.

What have your years of service at TSTC taught you about yourself?

I have learned that adaptation is the key to success. Things change, and one must be able and willing to adapt to change. Change can seem like chaos at times, yet it is in this chaos that one has the opportunity to shine.

To learn more about TSTC’s Business Management Technology program, visit https://www.tstc.edu/programs/BusinessManagementTechnology.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College Culinary Arts students recently gave back to first responders by way of homemade meals that also served as a learning experience for their American Regional course.

In the class, students prepare recipes from six different regions of the United States. The course prepares them with the essential skills to conquer large-quantity cooking, such as catering. When the meals are finalized and prepared, students are then tasked with choosing an organization in the community to deliver them to.

The students decided to send the meals to Harlingen Medical Center to say thank you to the medical professionals who are currently on the front line of the fight against the coronavirus. The delivery consisted of homemade chicken enchiladas with authentic refried beans, Mexican rice, and caramel flan.

“This particular gesture allowed our students to see how important it is to connect with their community,” said Culinary Arts instructor Emma Creps. “They are the future leaders of this industry, and it is vital that they learn the necessity of community involvement.”

Students learned other vital skills through this experience, such as communication, organization, and attention to detail when safely putting together a large amount of food.

“People getting together for a common goal is a great example of the importance of working together,” Creps said. “Communication skills also come into play during this lesson because we all had a responsibility to one another to finish this lesson in the safest way possible.”

Instructor Omar Duran reiterated that it is essential to remember that all of us are going through this time together.

“We need to share what we have with others, especially right now that we are all experiencing this crisis,” he said. “Medical professionals are putting themselves at risk on a daily basis to fight this.”

Creps shared the same thoughts about serving others during this time.

“Giving back to the community feels like we are showing our gratitude to the people who are working tirelessly through this pandemic,” she said. “I could tell that the group of nurses and medical technicians appreciated the gesture.”

To learn more about TSTC’s Culinary Arts program, visit https://www.tstc.edu/programs/CulinaryArts.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College recently welcomed two new staff members to the TSTC Police Department.

Officer Juan Lucio and dispatcher Naisa Trevino were celebrated during the socially distant ceremony, which is a tradition bestowed upon those who serve in law enforcement at the college.

Others in attendance to celebrate were TSTC Provost Cledia Hernandez, TSTC Police Chief Eduardo Patino, TSTC Safety and Security Police Commissioner Aurelio Torres, and Cameron County Justice of the Peace Eloy Cano Jr.

Lucio worked as a correctional officer prior to his duties at TSTC — a position that he credits with helping him continue to strive toward TSTC’s core values of excellence, accountability, service and integrity.

“I thought deeply about why I wanted to work for TSTC before getting hired,” he said. “I realized that becoming a police officer for students and the TSTC family is special. It is special because I get the privilege and responsibility of ensuring that students have a safe environment so that they may reach their educational career goals.”

Lucio added that the TSTC community can count on him to offer help when needed.

“This position has given me the responsibility to perform at a high level, and I will give 100 percent to this family-oriented community, which I am humbly honored to serve.”

Trevino said that her role as a dispatcher is a vital component to the safety of those on campus.

“My duties consist of answering phone calls, which can consist of something as simple as unlocking a building, to traffic stops, and even to someone being hurt,” she said. “This role can change immensely in the blink of an eye, so I always have to be prepared for any type of incoming call.”

Both Lucio and Trevino expressed appreciation that they were able to share the special moment with their families.

“It was surreal to have my parents present at the ceremony,” Lucio said. “My wife has also been my greatest support system since day one. She inspires me to be persistent and courageous. Having my family at the ceremony was fulfilling and an honor.”

Aside from being nervous, Trevino was also grateful that her loved ones were in attendance.

“I kept thinking to myself, don’t mess up and don’t fall,” she said. “I was super excited that they were there for me at this pinning ceremony because it was also a show of appreciation from me to them. I would not have gotten this far if it wasn’t for their support throughout all my accomplishments.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – For Texas State Technical College Business Management Technology instructor Cynthia Mata, the last three decades seem to have flown by. “It does not feel like 35 years,” she said. “I was between jobs, and my parents mentioned that I should apply at TSTC. I started as an instructor in the Business Skills program, which is now Business Management Technology.”

Mata has worn several hats at TSTC, including being a statewide department chair for the past five years.

“I went from being an instructor, to a program chair, to working in Human Resources,” she said. “Ultimately I wanted to go back to teaching. I love to teach. I thought it would be my temporary job, and it ended up becoming my dream.”

Though being an instructor has brought her many special moments, the times when she knew she was changing a student’s life are those she remembers most fondly.

“Years ago I took several students to a competition in Illinois for Business Professionals of America. Some of them had never been on a plane. When the plane took off, one of the students had to hold my hand because she was so nervous. That moment was unforgettable for me because I knew that would be one of the moments that would change her life.”

Being a department chair has given her the chance to oversee some changes happening within the program, including the transition to remote learning.

“We are moving into the future,” she said. “The world around us is constantly changing, and if we don’t move on that, we risk becoming obsolete. The Business Management Technology program is evolving and is now 100 percent online, which allows us to serve the entire state of Texas.”

The program offers a hands-on approach to learning the skills required to help keep a business running.

One of Mata’s colleagues at TSTC, Edna Claus, said that graduates of the program are beneficial to all areas of the business community.

“Regardless of the type of business, they all need to have a business manager or supervisor who understands how to use the latest software and can understand the basics of accounting and marketing strategies to assist in making their organization a success,” Claus said. “Whether a student wants to work for an organization or start a business of their own, the skills that they will gain in our program will assist them in becoming a valued employee.”

In addition to Mata’s focus on keeping the Business Management Technology program thriving, she is thankful for what her time at TSTC has taught her not only about her role in education, but also about herself.

“TSTC has made me a better me,” she said. “My time here has allowed me to understand people better, how to continually treat people with respect and integrity.”

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Precision Machining Technology instructor Isaac Gonzalez has been teaching at Texas State Technical College for 10 years.

Precision Machining Technology is an intense, hands-on program in which students learn skills such as precision measurement, blueprint reading and the heat treatment of metals, making them highly employable and work-ready from day one. Graduates can find jobs in commercial and military aircraft industries, automotive tool manufacturing and, of course, oil tool manufacturing.

With the rise in demand for skilled machinists, Gonzalez is excited that his career allows him to share his expertise with students who will eventually become part of the growing field.

What inspired you to become an instructor? 

After being in the industry for almost 15 years, I received a call from my former instructor, Mr. Steele. He said that he was wanting to retire and needed me to come in and interview as a lab assistant. Now, here I am loving teaching the new generation of precision machining professionals what it takes to make it out in the field.

What did you do before your time with TSTC? 

Before TSTC, I was in transportation at various companies, and the majority of the time I was in a position in tool and die. I was mold making, making fixtures, and welding on the molds for companies.

What do you enjoy most about working with students?

I get to teach them the important things about our industry and all about what precision machining technology has to offer.

Jobs in machining are expected to increase steadily through 2029.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) recently gave $100,000 to The TSTC Foundation at Texas State Technical College.

The donation will be used for The TSTC Foundation’s Goal Line Assistance program to help TSTC students who may be facing financial hurdles during the final year of their education. Economic hardships brought on by the pandemic have impacted some students across the TSTC community, and these funds will ensure that affected students are able to get help when they need it.

Richard Mesquias, TSTC’s senior field development officer, said that the contribution is an illustration of how much the Harlingen EDC cares about the community.

“This generous donation is just another example of their commitment to our community,” he said. “The Harlingen EDC clearly understands the importance of a technical college education and knows that our graduates fill essential positions in the workforce, which allows them to contribute to the economic growth of our city.”

He went on to explain that while some students receive assistance to attend college, awards do not necessarily cover the hardships that may come while a student is already enrolled.

“In many cases, financial aid does not cover all the expenses a student might face in their pursuit of an education,” he said.

Some TSTC students experience hardships that can mean the difference between continuing their studies and dropping out.

“A lot of our students are just a flat tire away from stopping their education,” said TSTC Provost Cledia Hernandez. “Opportunities like this allow our students to finish their journey and go on to be great citizens in their community.”

Harlingen EDC CEO Raudel Garza complimented the efforts put forth by TSTC to ensure that students obtain the education needed to leave an impact.

“TSTC has excellent programs and training,” he said. “Together, with the help of this (Goal Line Assistance) program and others like it, we are accomplishing student and community success.”

TSTC Chancellor Mike Reeser expressed gratitude for being able to work with other organizations that share the same ideals as TSTC.

“Fortunately at TSTC we get to work with companies who feel the same way about making an impression on our students — companies who know that students sometimes just need a hand to become productive members of society and also great employees,” he said.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Representatives from AEP Texas paid a visit to Texas State Technical College at the end of October to present a check for $300,000 to The TSTC Foundation on behalf of the AEP Foundation.

The gift will make a difference for deserving students who are pursuing a degree or certificate in Electrical Lineworker Technology at TSTC. It will also be used to purchase equipment and additional supplies needed for students to complete the program.

AEP Texas External Affairs Manager Daniel Lucio said that companies appreciate the dedication and effort that TSTC puts into ensuring that students are well-equipped for their careers as lineworkers.

“Electrical Lineworker Technology at TSTC will provide students the education and on-site training that will prepare them for the grueling, but rewarding, opportunity to serve their community as an essential worker,” he said. “At AEP Texas, we understand and appreciate the need for committed linemen.”

That commitment comes not only from students and instructors, but also from dedicated professionals like Richard Mesquias, a TSTC senior field development officer who understands the difference that college funding makes for students in South Texas.

“This life-changing gift of $300,000 to The TSTC Foundation will go directly toward helping students pursue an Electrical Lineworker Technology certificate or degree, as well as other technical degrees offered at TSTC,” Mesquias said. “The generosity shown from the AEP Foundation will impact students for years to come.”

AEP Texas President and Chief Operating Officer Judith Talavera expressed excitement about the potential benefits that will result from the funding.

“It gives me so much hope to imagine all the possibilities that will come from this grant,” she said. “This is an industry that is growing as our communities grow, and we are here to help you support it.”

TSTC Provost Cledia Hernandez spoke about the importance of partnerships between TSTC and industry leaders.

“TSTC is proud and honored to have a close relationship with business and industry leaders to keep the Texas economy moving,” she said. “This grant will provide critical financial assistance where it is needed.”

TSTC Chancellor Mike Reeser said that a career as an electrical lineworker is not like the average day job.

“This is a career with adventure,” he said. “It is a career that allows you to make a giant difference in your community while giving you the opportunity to make an outstanding living. The place to get started is at TSTC.”

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – In Texas, drafting and design is an occupation that is constantly growing. In fact, Texas employs the second-most drafters in the nation, and Texas State Technical College is equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in this career.

TSTC’s Drafting and Design program offers a chance to put creativity to work and make ideas become reality. Students are taught by industry-experienced instructors who understand what employers are looking for in potential employees.

“The Drafting and Design program revolves around the transformation of someone’s ideas and translating them to paper for actual creation and use,” said instructor Mark Rosas. “Our graduates have gone on to find careers as architectural, mechanical or civil draftsmen.”

The program prides itself on being hands-on so that students are learning all they can prior to graduation.

“Students in our degree will learn how to design residential and commercial structures, mechanical parts, subdivisions and topographical maps,” Rosas said. “They do this all while learning how to design these items and so much more. We get into the codes and common mishaps to give the student a better understanding of design intent.”

Drafting and Design lab assistant Stacey Perales said that the experience that TSTC instructors bring to the classroom adds to the benefits of a student’s education.

“The courses are being taught by instructors that have industry experience and who have brought that experience back into the classroom,” she said. “The assignments are constantly changing to give students exposure to real-life scenarios based on those industry experiences.”

She added that Texas employers know the potential that TSTC students bring to the table.

“We take pride in the students we produce in our program,” she said. “Because of the knowledge they are exposed to during the courses, TSTC students are often specifically requested by industry partners.”

Rosas said that connecting with students is one of the best perks of his job.

“I like finding how best to connect the material to the individual so everyone can understand and progress,” he said. “Problem-solving is the best skill to have, and teaching someone how to mentally break down an object and attack it in pieces is a lot of fun.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.