(HARLINGEN) – A Samsung virtual lab and a car with wireless capabilities are only a couple of the exhibits that more than 100 high school students had the opportunity of experiencing during the AT&T Showcase hosted by Texas State Technical College and AT&T.

“We’re excited that AT&T chose our campus as the host site for this event,” said David Sanchez, lead instructor for Telecommunications Technology. “This gives us an opportunity to show students what we offer here at TSTC.”

The showcase is the first of its type for TSTC and the Rio Grande Valley. It is an initiative set forth by HACEMOS, an employee relations group within AT&T that works to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers and provides scholarships for minority students.

AT&T Director of External and Legislative Affairs J.D. Salinas said the goal with this event is to increase awareness nationwide on the importance of STEM careers and show students first-hand what types of career opportunities they can pursue.

“It’s important to continuously keep parents and students exposed to STEM fields,” he said. “And a lot of the employees that work for AT&T are graduates from TSTC and so partnering for this event was a great opportunity to get students familiar with a college that provides the hands-on training needed for our industry.”

La Feria and San Benito high school students got the chance to explore STEM careers at the AT&T Showcase, which was also being held in nearly 35 cities across the country, including Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Mostly juniors and seniors, students invited to the showcase already show an interest in telecommunications or networking and are currently enrolled in related classes at their high school.

San Benito High School senior Robert Anderson said he is interested in pursuing a career in computer networking or maintenance after graduating this year. Anderson said TSTC is among his college choices.

“I’ve learned so much today from cutting fiber optic wires to being introduced to new tools and technologies,” he said. “The hands-on activities make a difference.”

In addition to being exposed to virtual reality labs and vehicles of the future, students also had hands-on activities such as learning how a DIRECTV dish works and how to work with and cut fiber optic wire. Students also heard from Louisiana’s AT&T President Sonia Perez.

In her presentation, Perez mentioned that by 2020 there will be a shortage of 40 million high skilled workers in their industry, making trained employees a high demand.

That is why TSTC and AT&T are long-time partners in industry. AT&T representatives sit on the Telecommunications Technology advisory board at the college, guiding faculty and students in the changes and updates in technologies and industry policies.

“It’s important that we partner with industry because our goal is to train students and get them looked at and hired by companies such as AT&T,” said Sanchez. “And introducing high school students to these types of opportunities early is the key.”

Telecommunications Technology is also offered at TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus, and those who pursue either a certificate or associate degree can expect to learn how to design and configure voice and data communications systems, test and evaluate hardware and software and provide user support by diagnosing network and device problems.

For more information on Telecommunications Technology call 956-364-4843 or visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Pablo Perez is a Digital Media Design student at Texas State Technical College. The Brownsville native anticipates earning his associate degree in Fall 2019.

The 19-year-old is a full-time student who is working full time to pay for college. He said that although it is not easy, he knows it will all be worth it in the end.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I plan on transferring to Texas State University or the University of Texas at San Antonio to pursue a double major in graphic design and music.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become a freelance graphic design artist for advertising companies and to become a private music teacher on the side. My love for the arts stems back to middle school when I discovered my talent. I haven’t looked back since.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment so far was completing my first semester, because it has encouraged me to move forward with my education by showing me that I can complete and surpass my goals here at TSTC.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I’ve learned a couple lessons. First, I have learned that by doing what makes me happy I will be led to many new things in life. Second, I have volunteered with soup kitchens and food pantries and it has opened my eyes to those less fortunate and how we have to show and spread love.

Who has influenced your success the most?

My parents are the two people who continuously influence me to be successful. They are my support and have always encouraged me to go for what I want in life. Finishing college and getting a good career will be my way of thanking them for all they have done for me.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

Find something that gives you the motivation to keep moving forward, and do not listen to the people who try to bring you down.

(HARLINGEN) – At least 35 Building Construction Technology and Skills USA students from Texas State Technical College are building a house to help give someone a home.

The Green Building and Construction Technology 2 classes, and Skills USA community service team gain real-world experience as they work closely with Habitat for Humanity to help make families’ dreams come true.

TSTC Building Construction Technology Instructor Rolando Cuellar said when the opportunity to partner with Habitat for Humanity was introduced one year ago, he knew it was a perfect match.

“We’ve been working with Habitat and building homes across Harlingen, while reinforcing what we teach in the classroom with hands-on experience every semester,” Cuellar said.

This is the program’s fourth house and counting. Cuellar said Habitat for Humanity has assigned them three more houses, with the next one in Primera. He added that it generally takes the students about one month to finish a house.

“This partnership has allowed our students not only to work toward their career goals, but also to help the community,” he said. “We’re excited for the future of this partnership because it is definitely worthwhile.”

Building Construction Technology student Denisse Godinez agrees that this opportunity has been a great experience and an eye opener for her.

“Being given this type of hands-on experience is invaluable to me,” she said. “Everything I’m learning I’ll be able to apply when I graduate and join my dad in the construction business.”

The mother of two said it also gives her a sense of satisfaction knowing she is helping to provide a home for a family.

“We’re not only building houses, we’re creating a place that a family can call home,” Godinez said.

Habitat for Humanity Program Director Eriberto Orta said he appreciates all the hard work and dedication TSTC has put into this partnership and helping families.

“TSTC has really become a huge support for us in Harlingen,” he said. “They have been with us literally every step of the way since our initial home in the community. They are an outlet we can count on.”

Orta said TSTC has been able to fill the volunteer gaps he faces during the week.

“During the week they’re there, no questions asked,” Orta said. “Our construction site is their learning site, and they are doing a remarkable job. They are really making a difference for our organization and the families we serve.”

Orta said he can only see this partnership growing and getting better.

To learn more about Building Construction Technology at TSTC, call 956-364-4468 or visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Francisco Vega just graduated from the Texas State Technical College Professional Driving Academy and is waiting to take his certifying exam, but he decided to get a head start on his job search during a trucking information session and job fair recently hosted by TSTC’s Workforce Training and Continuing Education department.

“It’s not just about driving a truck,” he said. “There is so much more to being a truck driver than most people realize, but TSTC has prepared us for that, and by hosting this event it shows that they really do care about our success.”

This is the second year that TSTC has hosted the job fair, but it is the first year that government agencies have made presentations to academy Commercial Driver’s License students and alumni.

Those in attendance heard from representatives of the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Transportation (DOT). The representatives spoke about the increase in drug trafficking and human smuggling, as well as the rules and regulations that need to be followed while on the road.

TSTC Continuing Education Special Projects Coordinator Adan Trevino said there have been changes and updates to Department of Motor Vehicles rules and regulations that students and alumni need to be aware of.

“It’s important that our students become well-rounded drivers,” he said. “And by providing this type of outreach, we can keep them updated on changes and increase awareness on the issues drivers come across.”

Steve Rodriguez, DOT motor carrier safety inspector, said many of the challenges and accidents truck drivers face on the road are preventable.

“Our mission is to save lives by teaching safety,” he said. “And by TSTC giving us the opportunity to have these one-on-one discussions with future drivers, we get to spread our message — because it all starts with them.”

Recruiters from trucking companies Heyl, Paschall Truck Lines, Trailboss, Unimex Logistics and Werner Enterprises also took the stage to talk about their companies and the qualifications they look for in new hires.

Trevino, like Vega, said academy students and alumni want to begin their careers in the industry, and the opportunity to meet recruiters from some of the leaders in the trucking industry is an advantage many do not get.

“Looking around at today’s event, I see how engaged our students and alumni are,” he said. “It’s safe to say we’ve made an impact, and this is something we’ll continue doing for them.”

As for Vega, he was glad many of the recruiters he met were local. He hopes to stay in the Rio Grande Valley and already has a list of possible employers.

For more information on TSTC’s Professional Driving Academy, call 956-364-4503 or visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College student Alyssa Cantu is pursuing her General Academic Core and expects to complete it in 2018. She currently boasts a 3.6 grade-point average.

When the 18-year-old is not busy studying, she volunteers with her church, Lifeline Heart of Worship, as an usher and greeter.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduating from TSTC I plan on transferring to Sam Houston State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to become a Forensic Psychologist. After completing my first psychology class I was interested in learning more. I did some research and came across forensics and noticed I could combine both, and since then I’ve been hooked.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment has been maintaining my grades, my GPA and making my mom proud.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

My mom has always taught me that it is important to be resilient in life, and I have always carried that with me.

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

The person at TSTC who has influenced my success the most is my Government Instructor Elizabeth Bryant. She is a very independent woman and is very dedicated to her job, teaching me and other students that dedication is important no matter what we decide to do in life.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is to attend class every day. I also encourage students to get involved and attend activities on campus because this helps you meet people new people.

By Debra Gonzalez

(HARLINGEN) – Graduates of Texas State Technical College’s Medical Assistant program achieved a 100 percent passing rate on their credentialing exams last semester.

The 13 students who took the test had the option to become Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) through the American Association of Medical Assistants or Registered Medical Assistants (RMAs) through American Medical Technologists. All 13 students passed.

“Some of them decided to be certified through the American Association of Medical Assistants and some of them decided to go through American Medical Technologists,” said instructor Cinthya Valdez. “These are the two best nationally recognized credentials for medical assistants. To take those tests, candidates must be graduates of accredited programs.”

Members of the department worked together to help students prepare for their credentialing exam.

“We offered a review course. We met for three hours once a week and went over everything they learned throughout the program,” Valdez said. “We also utilized Northstar learning, a web-based review program, where they prepared with practice test questions.”

Valdez said the passing rate speaks to the quality of education the students received.

“These two are the most challenging tests out there,” she said. “Knowing that our students are fully prepared for the workforce is an advantage to our program and our students.”

Starting in the fall, the program, which currently takes 16 months to complete, will become a 12-month program.

“They can become a credentialed medical assistant in less than 12 months,” Valdez said. “The 16-month program is very draining for the students. With the new program, we’re going to prepare students at a faster pace to get them ready for the workforce in less time.”

TSTC’s Medical Assistant program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and is the only accredited program in the Rio Grande Valley.

For those interested in the Medical Assistant program, information sessions will be held starting on Monday, Feb. 20. Sessions are from 4 to 5 p.m. in room 112 and are held every two weeks on Mondays. Participants are asked to bring their immunization records, an ID and their TSI scores.

For more information on the Medical Assistant program, stop by an information session or visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Maribel Tovar is in her last semester at Texas State Technical College. The La Feria native will be graduating Spring 2017 with her associate degree in Health Information Technology.

The 25-year-old said she became interested in Health Information Technology when she realized her dream of working in the medical field could come true without the needles or blood. She said she has a knack for helping others and she feels that through this career she will still be able to help patients.

When Maribel is not studying for class, she is attending meetings and staying active with the American Health Information Management Association chapter in the Rio Grande Valley, learning more about policies and procedures in her field.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I hope to get my Registered Health Information Technician Certification, a national certification that will prepare me for  more job opportunities and allow me to work anywhere in the United States.

What’s your dream job?

My dream is to find a good job in my field here in the Valley where I live.  However, if I have to, I am willing to move to San Antonio or Austin. I would also love to do humanitarian work in my free time.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

I’ve always been an introvert, really quiet and shy, but during my time here at TSTC I have really grown as a person and have become more social. This is a huge accomplishment for me.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I’ve learned to not give up so quickly when things don’t work out. Eventually, everything comes together because if there is something I really want then I have to try hard to get it.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

My instructor Ana Gonzalez has been my greatest influence at TSTC. She is always pushing us to do better and motivating us to do the best we can.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I want to tell future TSTC students to find a field they really enjoy, something they can see themselves doing for a long time and to move forward with their goals until they realize their dreams.

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College alumnus Jose Rangel did not always know what he wanted to be when he grew up, but thanks to TSTC he has found his passion and a new career he loves.

The San Benito native graduated from high school in 2007 and immediately enrolled at what was the University of Texas at Brownsville and at TSTC.

“I tried college right after high school, but I couldn’t find my calling,” said Rangel. “I felt lost. I didn’t know what to do.”

So, the 28-year-old decided to work odd jobs. Every part-time and full-time job was temporary, and Rangel knew the answer to his problems was going back to school.

“There was never a doubt I wanted a college education,” said Rangel. “My parents came from Mexico and wanted me to have a better life and I wanted to do this for them.”

Rangel said he not only wanted a college degree, but he was a first-generation college student and he wanted to be the first in his family to graduate.

“My parents only completed up to the fifth grade and neither of my three older sisters went to college,” he said.

One of Rangel’s motivating factors was being a good example for his nieces and nephews. He said he wanted to show them that anything is possible; even going back to school.

In the fall of 2013 Rangel enrolled again at TSTC to pursue an associate degree in Wind Energy Technology.

Rangel said he made his program choice based on his research. He found Wind Energy to be one of the top 10 jobs to have a high rate of employment. In fact, according to the American Wind Energy Association and the U.S. Department of Labor, Wind Energy technician is the fastest growing profession in the United States.

“I wanted a stable job and I was ready to take the next step,” said Rangel. “It may have taken me awhile to get here, but I made it.”

Rangel took the untraditional route of leaving in the middle of his program to work in his field as a traveling Wind Turbine Technician with Cooke Electric.

“It wasn’t my dream job, but it gave me the experience I needed,” said Rangel. “I learned a lot about myself, what I wanted and how we all start at the bottom, but if I wanted to move up in my field I needed to finish college.”

After one year at Cooke, Rangel returned to TSTC to earn his associate degree in Spring 2016.

“I don’t know who was prouder, my parents or me,” said Rangel.

The alumnus credits a lot of his success to Wind Energy Technology Lead Instructor David Gomez.

“There were many times throughout this journey that I second guessed myself and my path,” said Rangel. “But he kept pushing me and telling me I could do it and that he believed in me.”

Gomez said Rangel was one of his best students.

“Despite his difficult background, he worked hard and it paid off,” he said. “And I have to give him kudos for returning. Most students who leave to work, never come back. He has a bright future.”

Ultimately, Rangel realized his dream of staying in the Valley and working with Duke Energy in Lyford, where he is now a Wind Turbine Technician.

“Coming back to school and earning my degree was definitely a challenge, but it was worth it,” he said. “The hands-on training, the lessons in the classroom and the instructors prepared me and gave me the confidence I needed to pursue a career at Duke Energy.”

Rangel said finding a career and getting hired at Duke Energy is his perfect love story.

Wind Energy Technology is offered at TSTC’s Harlingen and Sweetwater campuses.

For more information on Wind Energy Technology call 956-364-4729.

(HARLINGEN) – If you need one-on-one help completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) join Texas State Technical College for its Fourth Annual Super Saturday on February 11.

The event will be held at the TSTC Student Support Service building from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  It is open to any new or current college student needing assistance completing his/her FAFSA or Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) no matter what local institution of higher education a student attends or decides to attend: TSTC, Texas Southmost College, South Texas College or the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

“When it comes to financial aid, the earlier a student applies the better,” said Fred Peña, financial aid director at TSTC. “We can award aid earlier and be sure that students are prepared when it comes to paying tuition and other expenses for the upcoming Fall 2017 semester.”

Prior to Super Saturday students and at least one parent need to apply for a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID and bring it with them to complete their FAFSA. The FSA is a number used to access personal financial aid information and is used as an electronic signature for Department of Education websites.

Students and parents are also encouraged to come prepared with their completed 2015 tax return with W-2 statements, or if a tax return was not completed, a W-2 with any other income forms such as a 1099.

Peña said Super Saturday also serves undocumented students who are looking to receive financial help for college by providing them and their families with information on TASFA and help completing the forms.

“There is help available for everyone, we don’t want anyone to feel discouraged,” said Peña.

Super Saturday will also include financial literacy workshops, campus tours and a college information fair with instructors and students from TSTC’s programs on hand to provide course information and answer any questions. Veteran Services will also be readily available to help veterans with benefit questions.

Students at the event will also have the opportunity to register to win one of two $250 scholarships being raffled that day. The scholarship can only be used if the student is or will be attending TSTC.

“We are looking to promote change in the time frame students apply for financial aid,” said Peña. “We’re aiming to bring awareness on the benefits of applying early.”

Super Saturday is the combined effort of RGV Focus, an organization committed to uniting communities for education success, and a creating a partnership created between the institutions of higher education in the Rio Grande Valley.

For more information on Super Saturday contact the TSTC Financial Aid office at 956-364-4330.

(HARLINGEN) – Kassandra Martinez is pursuing an associate degree in Business Management Technology. The Brownsville native expects to graduate Fall 2019.

The 19-year-old said it was at TSTC that she began to realize her dream of becoming a fashion designer and business owner.

“In high school I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life,” said Martinez. “But after starting my business classes I thought why not combine it with my love for fashion and become a business owner. I finally felt like I had something to work toward.”

When time permits Martinez volunteers with the TSTC Service Squad and the Wellness Sports Center.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate from TSTC I hope to attend the Art Institute of California-San Francisco to earn a degree in Fashion.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to own my own fashion business and with both degrees I know this is feasible. I want to design and sell clothing, shoes and accessories. I hope to grow this company nationally as well as internationally, because I’ve always dreamed about traveling the world.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC has been finding my dream and successfully passing my classes with A’s and B’s.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I’ve learned patience. It’s important to remember that things always fall into place and happen when they’re meant to happen.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

My College Success Instructor John Hensley has influenced my success the most. At one time I was working and going to school full-time and I started falling behind in my courses. He was always there for me and he gave me advice. He taught me time management. This has been one of the greatest lessons he could have taught me because it will serve me well for  the rest of my life.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I advise future TSTC students to always go to class, be prepared, get involved and make friends. Your college experience is what you make of it.