(HARLINGEN) – The Education and Humanities Division at Texas State Technical College received a $3,000 Latino Americans: 500 Years of History Grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association, which will be used to promote Mexican-American culture during the first week of April (4-7) with a series of events that are open to students, faculty, staff and the public.

TSTC was one of 203 grant recipients from across the country and the only institution of higher learning in South Texas to get the award.  TSTC will host a public film screening from the Latino American series, discussion groups, oral history initiatives, local history exhibitions and performances that promote Latino history and culture.

“Latino Americans are the country’s largest minority group, with more than 50 million people, and still many people are unaware of their rich and varied history and culture,” said Sociology and Psychology professor Dr. Richard Kirk. “The awarding of this grant provides TSTC the opportunity to explore this topic in our community.”

For more information on the Latino American screening or accompanying events, call Monica Villarreal at 364-4967 or Richard Kirk at 364-4758.

Calendar of Events:

Monday:

Documentary Screening: The Chicano Collection La Colleccion Chicana by Melissa Richardson Banks 10:10 a.m. – 11:05 p.m. Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

Guest Speaker Lecture on Chicano Civil Rights Music 11:15 a.m. – 12:10 p.m. Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

Tuesday:

Artist’s Forum – Chicano Themes in Writing/Art/Music 9:35 – 11 a.m. Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

Exclusive Screening of Latino Episode 5: Prejudice and Pride 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Representative Irma Rangel Science and Technology Building (W-135)

Wednesday: (Evening Movie is for TSTC students, staff & faculty only)

Manuel Medrano Presentation on Americo Paredes (Two Presentations) 9:05 – 10 a.m. &

10:10 – 11:05 a.m. Representative Irma Rangel Science and Technology Building (W-135A)

Insight Poetry Reading 12 – 1 p.m. Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

Evening Movie: Cesar Chavez 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

Thursday:

TSTC Talks – Students/Faculty presentations on Chicano Influences Learning Resource Center Orientation Room

8 – 9:25 a.m. Digital Stories on Religion and Culture

9:35 – 11 a.m. Chicano Leaders

11:10 a.m. – 12:35 p.m. Stencil Workshop

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are your plans after graduation?

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

What’s your dream job?

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

What has been your greatest accomplish at TSTC?

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

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

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

Name a TSTC person that has influenced your success?

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

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(HARLINGEN) – In a recent tour of United Launch Alliance, Texas State Technical College students were introduced to ULA employee and TSTC alumna Brittany Campbell.

Campbell, 21, graduated from TSTC in August 2015 with her associate degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology. The Los Fresnos native said she first became interested in the aviation industry at a young age.

After graduating from Los Fresnos High School in 2013, her plan was to enlist in the United States Air Force. However, when her plans fell through, TSTC was there to give her a future.

“Things happened and I couldn’t take off,” said Campbell. “I found TSTC and the aviation program and decided to give it a try. I ended up enjoying every bit of it and found a job I love.”

Campbell began working with ULA the Monday after she received her degree, although she had officially been hired a few months before graduation. She became familiar with the company at a TSTC job fair and through ULA representative visits on campus.

“TSTC prepared me for this job, there were no surprises,” said Campbell. “The hands-on approach from the instructors trained me for the field. Their help was invaluable to my experience and the skills I gained.”

Tim Pillar, ULA site lead said it is Campbell’s understanding of the industry and abilities that set her apart from other candidates.

“TSTC gives students like Campbell the starting point to take off from when they get to ULA,” said Pillar. “They have an understanding of process and discipline required in the industry.”

During the recent tour at ULA, Pillar told students that ULA’s history with TSTC dates back to 1987 when they opened their doors in Harlingen. The first technicians they hired were trained at TSTC and many more have been hired since then. Pillar added that TSTC is the first place they look for new employees when a position becomes available at their site.

“We see TSTC students as a cut above other candidates,” said Pillar. “By pursuing post high school education these students are already demonstrating they want more earning potential than that from a high school degree.”

More than 70 students who are preparing to graduate within the next two semesters from Aviation Maintenance, Precision Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Telecommunications and Air Conditioning and Refrigeration were invited for the tour.

“The significance of them touring our facility gives students a unique insight into aerospace manufacturing,” said Pillar. “They get a sense for high standards set in the work environment and the importance of our product to mankind and society.”

Viviana Espinosa, interim director of Talent Management/Career Services at TSTC, said the ULA tour was a part of the Employee Spotlight series, a presentation requested by an employer when they are looking to hire TSTC graduates.

“This tour was a little different, usually employers come to campus to talk to our students,” said Espinosa. “But ULA invited us this time and they’re ready to meet and hire our students. We couldn’t be more appreciative of this opportunity.”

To learn more about the services offered by TSTC’s Talent Management/Career Services department call 956-364-4940.

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

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(HARLINGEN) – Roel Gonzalez from Los Fresnos is pursuing an associate degree in Equipment Technology at Texas State Technical College. He expects to graduate Summer 2017 and currently has a 3.0 grade point-average. Gonzalez said he first became interested in the biomedical equipment field when a family friend who owns a business in the industry introduced him to the field. When Gonzalez is not studying he is busy with the Intramural Sport Club, where he serves as the club’s treasurer.

What are your plans after graduation? My plans after graduation are to move to Corpus Christi and continue my education in business. I would also like to work in a hospital as a biomedical technician to help pay for school and get experience.

What’s your dream job? My dream job is to work as a level-three technician in a research hospital and become the head technician in dialysis.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC? My greatest accomplishment as of right now is simply attending college. There were days I felt college was not for me, but I have stuck with it, When I finally earn my diploma I will be able to call that my greatest accomplishment at TSTC.

What is the greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life? I have learned that if I actually try and put my mind to something then there is nothing I cannot do. Nothing in life is handed to you and if you want something you must put the time and effort to get it. The most important thing that life has taught me is that family is everything and they will always be there for me.

Name a TSTC person who has most influenced your success?  Daisy Bujanos, my girlfriend who I met here at TSTC, is someone that has influenced me in a very powerful way. The times I felt like quitting she was there to calm me down and help me get through my tough time. She is someone that I admire and love so much, and because of her I am still here working on my associate degree to become a biomedical technician.

What is your advice for future TSTC students? My advice to future TSTC students is to take advantage of all TSTC has to offer. It’s a great college to attend and I highly recommend it. I also want to advise students to not quit and keep pushing through because the outcome will be rewarding and worth it.

(HARLINGEN) – Nearly 30 student veterans at Texas State Technical College have been awarded veteran scholarships by the Veteran Students Alliance Club, a student-run organization that helps veterans and their families with the transition to civilian life and assists them with getting the veteran benefits available to attend TSTC.

To continue awarding scholarships, a tradition started by the club in 2013, the Veteran Students Alliance Club will host a Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on March 26 at the TSTC campus.

This is the second annual show. The club’s president Maria Rincon, said last year’s show was a success, earning approximately $2,100 and having more than 60 car show contestants.

“Our goal for this year is to get more car show participants,” said Rincon. “With more contestants, we raise more money and increase the number of students we help. This is our way of giving thanks to the veterans for their service.”

All proceeds from the car show go toward veteran student scholarships. Every semester, three students receive a $300 scholarship that can be used to cover tuition, books and supplies, or room and board.

Student veterans who apply for the scholarship must have prior military service, 90 plus days, or 30 days medical discharge; be a part-time student; have a 2.0 grade-point average and complete a 300 word essay.

There are 12 competitive categories car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts can compete in such as muscle, classic and work in progress. There are first and second place awards for every category including three specialty awards: President’s Choice, People’s Choice, and Club Affiliation.

The show is free and open to the public, but for those wanting to contribute to the club’s mission, tickets can be purchased for $1. Each tickets counts as one vote for their favorite car, truck or motorcycle in each competition category.

Food and drinks will also be available for purchase.

“All money raised from competitors, spectators and vendors goes a long way when you’re helping students pursue an education,” said Steve Guevara, Veterans Center director.

Any vendors interested in advertising their services at the show can purchase a table for $50. Sponsorships for gift cards or discounts are also welcomed. Gift cards and discounts will be used as door prizes for car show contestants.

To enter a car, truck or motorcycle in the “Show ‘N’ Shine category preregistration is $10 and ends March 18. The registration price after March 18 is $20. Any vehicle in this category is only eligible for specialty awards.

The “Competition” registration fee is $20 preregistration until March 18 and $30 after that. This category is eligible for specialty awards and first and second place trophies all competition categories.

Registration for “Competition” and “Show ‘N’ Shine” ends March 26.

For more information or to request a registration form contact Jose Villegas at 956-364-4387.

 Event Information:

March 26

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

TSTC Student Center Parking Lot (off Oak St.)

1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, Texas 78550

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WHO: TSTC in Harlingen

WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28

WHERE: TSTC in Harlingen Athletic Field, 1902 N. Loop 499, Harlingen

WHAT: TSTC will hold its 25th Annual Oktoberfest. The event will feature more than 20 student organizations selling delicious food, more than 10 TSTC program booths, eight carnival rides, hayrides, a petting zoo, pony rides, a visit from ninja turtles, a haunted house, costume contests and more. All activities are free, except the food vendor booths.