Category Archives: All TSTC

TSTC in Waco Student Q&A with Shelby Mauger of Bedford

(WACO) – Shelby Mauger, 20, of Bedford in Tarrant County is studying Web Design and Development Technology at Texas State Technical College in Waco. She is scheduled to graduate with an associate degree in December. She is a 2014 graduate of Trinity High School in Euless.

How did you become interested in web design? “I’ve always been interested in computers and how designs are made. I like the idea of making something that a lot of people will hopefully like and think is cool.”

How did you learn about TSTC? “My high school counselor told me about TSTC because her brother went here. I came to see the campus first and thought it was pretty for a technical college. I realized in high school a four-year academic program would not be possible for me. I figured a two-year technical program would be cheaper and I would get into the workforce faster.”

Why do you think more females do not choose a computer field to major in? “I would say they feel like they will be shown up by the guys and they can’t do it. I think girls are intimidated by the coding. They think it’s hard, but it’s really not.”

What have you enjoyed most about studying in your major? “All the graphic design classes are really fun. It’s important because if you know how to use Photoshop and if you know it like the back of your hand, you should do well in the field.”

What do you wish you knew in high school that you know now? “College is not as bad as I thought it would be. You need to keep up on your work and you will be fine.”

What are your plans after graduation later this year? “I would like to go to Austin and get a job. I would like to go into the designing part of web development, making the websites look pretty.”

The web development field is expected to grow from about 148,000 workers to 188,000 employees nationally up to 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual wage for full-time web developers was $64,970 as of May 2015, according to the bureau.

In Texas, the demand for web developers is expected to grow from about 10,100 workers to 13,810 employees by 2024, according to projectionscentral.com, an information clearinghouse of short-term and long-term state and labor market predictions.

The need for additional workers is driven by e-commerce and growth and usage in mobile devices, according to the federal bureau of labor statistics.

Udacity, an online platform for nanodegree programs supported by technology companies, named web development the second-hottest job in 2016.

For more information on Web Design and Development Technology and other TSTC technical programs, go to tstc.edu.

TSTC Hosts First Open House in Fort Bend County

(FORT BEND) – Nearly 700 high school students and community members recently attended Texas State Technical College’s first open house in its new Industrial Technology Center.

TSTC Director of Recruitment Dora Colvin said these type of events are a great opportunity to show off the college’s services.

“A lot of people haven’t see our campus yet and are first-time visitors, so it’s important for them to see how we’re serving their community,” Colvin said.

At TSTC Open Houses prospective students or community members who are interested in registering for summer or fall classes can get help with college applications and financial aid processes.

TSTC Admissions and Financial Aid representatives, faculty and staff were all readily available to speak with prospective students exploring program and career options and to answer any questions.

“This is one-stop shop that many take advantage of,” said Colvin. “We’re glad to see the interest people have in our campus and programs, many of which have very high job placement rates.”

In addition to completing the application process, Colvin said prospective students also had campus tours available to them throughout the day.

“This is a great way to showcase our state-of-art labs and classrooms,” she said. “Hearing about it is one thing but seeing it in person is another. Many were excited to see what would be accessible to them.”

Those at the open house were also treated to lunch, multiple TSTC promotional item giveaways and a chance to win a $250 scholarship.

Employees from the TSTC Veterans Center and Career Services were also on hand to present their services. TSTC faculty and staff also took this time to introduce the new programs that will be offered beginning Fall 2017.

The Brazos Center, TSTC’s newest building, which will also be ready for the fall semester, will house four new programs: Electrical Lineworker Technology, Robotics/Industrial Automation Technology, Electrical Power and Controls Technology and Environmental Technology – Compliance Specialization.

“We’re excited about the response we received for our first open house,” said Colvin. “And we encourage those who couldn’t make today’s event to call us for a personalized tour. Our doors are always open.”

For more information on the programs offered at TSTC’s Industrial Technology Center call 346-239-3416 or visit tstc.edu to apply or register anytime.

TSTC Reduces Housing Costs to Help New, Current Students

(SWEETWATER) – Texas State Technical College Housing student Zachary Reece will be having a little extra money in his pocket beginning Fall 2017.

TSTC has announced it will reduce the cost of living on campus between $130 and $140 to assist students in lowering their expenses.

Reece, a Diesel Equipment Technology student pursuing a certificate, says that being a full-time student means living on a tight budget. .

“I think what TSTC is doing is a really good idea,” said Reece. “This helps me lower my spending and any bit of money saved goes a long way when you’re a college student.”

The Olney native has lived in a dorm at TSTC since January and said he is glad the college is doing something extra to help its students.

“We know that college is a big investment,” said TSTC West Texas Housing Director Jose Navarrette. “And we believe this change will help students save some money and focus more on school.”

Like Reece there are another 216 students living on TSTC’s Sweetwater campus working toward the same goal: finishing college.

“Our goal as a college is to graduate students and get them good paying jobs,” said Navarrette. “We feel that by alleviating some of the financial stress, they’ll fulfill their goals and that of the college.”

Associate Vice Chancellor of Auxiliary Administration Kevin Dorton said the initiative of reducing housing costs began about a year ago as a way to spur enrollment.

“This is a cost-savings solution for our incoming and current students,” said Dorton. “Our goal is to offer our students affordable housing options. In return, we believe this will increase our enrollment and the number of students living on campus.”

Students in Sweetwater have housing options: a dorm room and student apartments such as Bluebonnet Inn, all of which are shared with other students. Those living on campus also have a meal plan included in their rental package. Internet, cable and utilities are also included.

“Our goal is give our students a comfortable place to call home,” said Navarrette. “We want them to be relaxed and have food on their tables so they can enjoy college.”

Dorton said the housing cost reduction is isolated to West Texas at the moment, but there are studies and research being done for the college’s other campuses.

For more information on TSTC Housing call 325-235-7368.

Registration for Summer and Fall 2017 is already in progress. For more information on TSTC programs offered near you go online at tstc.edu.

Waco ISD, TSTC Commemorate Texas Workforce Commission Grant Award

(WACO) – The Waco Independent School District and Texas State Technical College on Wednesday, April 12, commemorated the awarding of a $220,870 Jobs and Education for Texans, or JET, grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. The funding will be used for Waco ISD to purchase equipment and train 175 high school students to work in the automotive services industry. School district and technical college leaders said the grant will fill a need for qualified and professional automotive technicians in Waco and give them skills sets to make productive citizens. The partnership will enable the automotive technology curricula at TSTC and Waco ISD to better align. The announcement and ceremonial check signing by Julian Alvarez, Texas Workforce Commissioner Representing Labor, took place at Waco High School’s Automotive Technology Lab.

Techsan Day Spring 2017

Techsan Day is a long-standing tradition at Texas State Technical College. It is held every spring semester before final exams to give administration, faculty, staff and students a chance to network and relieve the semester’s stress through games, contests and food. From mechanical bull riding and dunking booths to eating contests and obstacle courses, there is fun for all.

Student Success Profile – Eva Gonzalez

(HARLINGEN) – Eva Gonzalez is a student at Texas State Technical College pursuing an associate degree in Wind Energy and Turbine Technology.

The 32-year-old expects to graduate in Summer 2017 and currently boasts a 3.7 grade-point average.

The Raymondville native said she first became interested in the industrial arena when she worked as an insulation and metal installer and asbestos remover at refineries in Corpus Christi and Victoria. Gonzalez said although she loved what she did, she is ready for a career, not just a job.

What are your plans after graduation?

I’m hoping to have a job position in place upon graduating. Although I’m keeping an open mind about where I may end up, I am ultimately hoping to get a job with Siemens USA, a global company that provides services such as Energy, Industrial Automation and Drive Technology.

What’s your dream job?

My dream is to become a supervisor or some type of leader either at Siemens or whichever company I end up at. I would like oversee a region, especially the South Texas region. It’s home.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC was being able to balance school and maintain a high GPA while working. Until recently I worked at O’Reilly Auto Parts but my school schedule has changed and I want to focus on school and starting my career. I’m proud that I was able to handle both work and school through the majority of my program.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

Several years ago my dad passed away and I went through a depression. I was living in California at the time and that’s when I decided to come home. I learned that it was important to not take anything for granted, especially an education. So I took a continuing education class at TSTC and earned a certificate in Industrial Safety and I never left the college. I hope to make my dad proud of who I’m becoming because I had an unsure path before. And coming from a background of migrant workers I have also learned the value of hard work and determination.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

It’s hard to name only one person because all three of my instructors: David Gomez, Juan Alferez and Alfredo Rodriguez have influenced my success. All three have different experiences and lessons to share. They are always there encouraging us to succeed.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I want to tell future and current students to stick with their goals and dreams and not to get discouraged. Education is the key and it will get you far in life.

TSTC Alumnus Credits TSTC for Career Path

(HARLINGEN) – Michael Foster was a dual-credit high school student the last time he attended Texas State Technical College, but it was at the college where he found the support that got him where he is today.

The Harlingen native finished his general academic core at TSTC in 2009, the same year he graduated from Harlingen Early College High School.

“Honestly, TSTC was the best thing to have happened to me,” said Foster. “During my hardest time, they were there for me and pushing me to go forward.”

The 19-year-old is now a student at St. Edward’s University in Austin, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history and economics, and he also works at the Texas State Capitol as a senate messenger, hand-delivering documents to various departments within the Capitol. With this nonpartisan position, he has the chance to witness the happenings of the legislative session.

However, before finding his way upstate he suffered a great loss.

“My dad passed away from lung cancer during my senior year in high school,” Foster said. “Only one month later, I was diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disease.”

Foster has what is called pemphigus vulgaris, an autoimmune disorder of the skin that causes blistering and sores. With treatment, his disease is now under control.

“I felt like my life was chaos,” he said. “I was so discouraged, but my TSTC instructors were so understanding and were there for me every step of the way, helping in any way they could so I could finish and graduate.”

TSTC instructors like Elizabeth Bryant, who teaches state and federal government, and William Taliancich, who teaches English, would constantly call to check on him.

In fact, it was Bryant who helped Foster discover his love for government and helped him find job opportunities when he moved to Austin.

“Without Bryant, I would have never known about this position,” said Foster. “It was her constant reassurance and guidance that got me through the hiring process. And here I am.”

Foster said TSTC acted as his stepping stone and he is so grateful for the experience.

“Everything I learned at TSTC is conducive to my long-term goals in how it prepared me,” he said. “Stepping into these advanced courses as a high school student was challenging, but it definitely prepared me for everything that was to come.”

Bryant, who has worked with the Texas senate, said she could tell from the beginning that Foster had a true interest in government, but just needed a little push.

“Michael was a great student. He was always reaching out, wanting to learn more,” said Bryant. “Like him, all of my students are special, and I work hard to encourage each of them to have confidence and be proud of their education. Michael was a little hesitant to meet senators and assert himself, but with encouragement he did it. I know he has a bright future.”

As of now, Foster’s long-term goals are to attend law school and become active in politics, including running for public office someday.

“A lot of things for me are still up in the air. There’s a lot I want to do,” said Foster. “But I couldn’t have done it without my support system at TSTC and my mom. And that’s what I want to advise future students: always reach out to instructors or family when you need guidance. You can go far with their help.”

TSTC in Waco Students Await Golden Opportunities in Kentucky

(WACO) – Texas State Technical College in Waco students received gold medals in 20 events during the SkillsUSA Texas Student Leadership and Skills Conference held earlier this month on campus.

The gold medalists qualify for the national SkillsUSA Student Leadership and Skills Conference in June in Louisville, Kentucky. SkillsUSA is a professional organization teaching technical, academic and employability skills that help college students pursue successful careers. Members build these skills through student-led team meetings, contests, leadership conferences and other activities.

TSTC in Waco’s Interactive Application and Video Game Creation team of Charlene Knox, 42, of Austin and Amy Bartlett, 23, of Lorena did not have competition in the state contest because they were the only group entered. Bartlett also placed first in Pin Design.

“Charlene made me do it and said I would sign up for SkillsUSA,” Bartlett said.

The women will continue working on a project to demonstrate and explain at the conference. The students will work on the project after spring semester finals are completed this month.

Some students are already familiar with the national conference.

Larry Johnson, 20, of Mount Pleasant will make his second consecutive trip to Kentucky to compete nationally. He received a gold medal in the state Carpentry contest and had to build a small-scale mock-up of a gable end wall with rafters and a window opening. The project had to be completed in less than seven hours.

“I was ecstatic when my name was called,” said Johnson, a 2015 graduate of Mount Pleasant High School. “It was close.”

Josh Alexander, 22, of Waco will return to the national contest to compete in Computer Programming. In 2015 he traveled to Kentucky as part of the Quiz Bowl team.

“I am studying computer programming and have gotten better and was up for the challenge this year,” he said.

Alicia Rivera, 41, of Waco and originally from Puerto Rico won gold for the second year in a row in Commercial Baking. Her state contest involved baking a yeast bread, making pastries, preparing a pie shell and decorating a pre-made cake with precision and detail.

“For the national competition in Commercial Baking, you know what you need to do because we receive the measurements ahead of time,” Rivera said. “I will practice at least twice a week.”

Other students who won gold medals were: 3D Visualization and Animation: Kayleigh Ekwall and Jeremiah Stones; Architectural Drafting: Jordan Linder; Automotive Refinishing: Teresa Hovath; Collision Repair Technology: Richard Moran; Electrical Construction Wiring: Abraham Perez; Extemporaneous Speaking: Nelson Baldwin; Information Technology Services: Juan Gongora; Photography: Ray Ross; Plumbing: Edgar Hernandez; Quiz Bowl: Christopher Dunn, James Pearson, Cameron Burt, Robert White, Louis Garcia, Pete Baus and Justin Tucker; Restaurant Services: Logan Moore; Residential Systems and Maintenance: Marcus Crespin; TeamWorks: Edgar Cuellar, William Chance, Matthew Peeler and Jose Perez; Telecommunications Cabling: Dax Edmiston; Web Design: Alex Barron and Shelby Mauger.

Overall, TSTC in Waco students received more than 50 gold, silver and bronze medals in 30 events.

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

TSTC Automotive Technology Students Travel to San Antonio for CarFest

(WACO) – Several Automotive Technology majors from Texas State Technical College recently traveled to CarFest in San Antonio to learn and help others.

The two-day event held earlier this month at Freeman Coliseum included car giveaways, workshops, a cook-off and entertainment.

“It went great,” said Rudy Cervantez, statewide chair for TSTC Auto Repair. “The students repaired 25 vehicles in two days. The problems were oil changes to replacing air conditioners. It was a good challenge for the students.”

For some TSTC students, the trip was a homecoming.

Thomas Gil, 42, graduated from Oliver Wendell Holmes High School in San Antonio and spent two decades in the U.S. Army before enrolling at TSTC. He had not been to CarFest before and said it was a chance for younger students to be exposed to vehicle repair work.

“It’s like the auto industry. A customer brings in the vehicle, and you don’t know what you will get,” Gil said. “It’s training for what you will do in the industry.”

Gil said he felt good working on the vehicles owned by people who needed assistance.

“Some people can’t afford dealer work,” he said.

Automotive Technology major Nathaniel Diaz, 18, a 2016 graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School in Austin, spent much of his youth in San Antonio. He said the vehicle problems he encountered at the event would help him think of solutions later in his classes.

Away from the event, Diaz spent time on the city’s Riverwalk and visited relatives.

“San Antonio is a car city,” he said. “Everywhere you look there is a fancy car or a car that needs to be fixed. On almost every street corner you see an auto shop.”

Some of the students returned from San Antonio with tool donations and equipment such as gloves and flashlights.

This was the second year a TSTC group had attended CarFest.

For more information, go to tstc.edu.

Fayette County Student Finds Technical Rhythm at TSTC

(WACO) – Alex Barron remembers the anticipation he had when he went to his first Korean pop concert when he was a teenager.

Barron, 21, grew up in West Point in Fayette County and convinced his father to drive him to Houston to see the Wonder Girls at the House of Blues. Barron did not have a driver’s license, but he and a cousin went to the show while his father visited a relative.

“It was amazing,” Barron said. “I was hit by a wave of surprise.”

Barron is just as excited again because he is about to graduate from Texas State Technical College in Waco.

He will receive an Associate of Applied Science degree in Web Design and Development Technology at TSTC’s Spring 2017 Commencement at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 1, at the Waco Convention Center.

The Web Design and Development Technology program has about 45 students. Students in the five-semester program learn about digital imaging, advanced web programming, web authoring and other topics. Barron said he is a visual learner and grasped coursework quickly.

“The web design field is always changing,” Barron said. “You want to build a site that looks pretty and is not a mess to control.”

Matt Blansit, an instructor in TSTC’s Web Design and Development Technology program, said Barron is a sparkling example of what he wants to see his students become.

“He’s a very motivated student,” Blansit said. “He goes over and beyond what he needs to do. We will miss his laughter.”

Barron was raised in West Point, a town he described as quiet and rural.

“It’s a great place to grow up with your family,” he said.

Barron graduated in 2014 from La Grange High School, where he took as many technology classes as possible.

TSTC did not factor into his post-high school plans until late his senior year.

“My cousin Eric Barron came here,” he said. “He told me about the college and the hands-on training. I looked it up and they had computer programs, and the tuition was not annoying and overbearing. I applied first and then visited before I started in the fall of 2014.”

Traveling to Waco for college was a culture shock, Barron said. But he grew to enjoy exploring Cameron Park and downtown Waco.

“When I came here I didn’t know anybody,” he said. “Now I have made my group of friends and that’s all I need.”

When he is not going to classes or studying, Barron listens to some of his favorite K-pop groups and learns their choreography.

“I first found K-pop when a friend showed me an online video when I was in high school,” he said. “I listen online using music streaming services. I also collect albums and buy online. I have 64 albums.”

Barron will put his web design skills to good use as he represents Texas in SkillsUSA’s National Leadership and Skills Conference in June in Louisville, Kentucky. After his trip there, Barron wants to search for web design jobs in the Austin area and pick up freelance work. And in the future, Barron wants to travel to South Korea, Italy, Spain and Japan.