20
Spring 2012 TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE WACO MAGAZINE ALSO Drafting students give back (Page 8) We all ADD up (Page 11) Vol. 2, No. 2 A A Fresh Fresh Start Start for for C ulinary A rts rts With a new building and more kitchens, this popular With a new building and more kitchens, this popular program is heating up. program is heating up. (Page 5) (Page 5) HNI C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C A A A A A A A A A A A A L L L L L L L L C C C C C C C C C C C C C O O O O O L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L E E E E E E E G G G G G G G G G G E E E E E E W W W W W W W W W W W WA A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A CO IN THIS ISSUE The Life of a Working Graphic Designer (Page 15) New Vision for Career Services (Page 17)

TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

The official Texas State Technical College Waco magazine.

Citation preview

Page 1: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

Sp

rin

g 2

01

2

TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE WACO MAGA ZINE

ALSODraftingstudents

give back (Page 8)

We all ADD up (Page 11)

Vol. 2, No. 2

AA FreshFresh Start Start for for Culinary ArtsrtsWith a new building and more kitchens, this popular With a new building and more kitchens, this popular program is heating up. program is heating up. (Page 5)(Page 5)

HNICCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL CCCCCCCCCCCCCOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLEEEEEEEGGGGGGGGGGEEEEEE WWWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACO

IN THIS ISSUEThe Life of a Working Graphic Designer(Page 15)

New Vision for Career Services(Page 17)

Page 2: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

At TSTC the signs of spring are pop-ping up all over … and it’s not just the fl owers!

From the opening of the new Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center, to the new Airport Control Tower and coming soon, the new Col. James T. Connally Aerospace Center, the growth at TSTC Waco is amazing. It has been more than a decade since we have had this much construction on campus.

In addition to reading about our Culinary Arts program and its move to the new state-of-the-art facility in “A fresh start for Culinary Arts” on pages 5-7, this edition of the TSTC Magazine features an informative article on “Draft ing students give back to Waco community” on page 8; an in-depth look at our Qual-ity Enhancement Plan in “We all ADD up” on pages 11-12; an alumni update in “The Life of a Working Graphic Designer” on pages 15-16; a center spread photo of the Air Traffi c Control new high fi delity tower simulator; a Q&A with new Career Services Coordinator Edgar Padilla on page 17; and much more.

Finally, if you haven’t been on campus in a while, now is a great time to come see what’s blooming at TSTC. Contact our Recruiting Services at (254) 867-2360 to set up a visit or join us for lunch at the new Culinary Arts Center, details on page 7.

As always, thank you for all you do for TSTC!

Dr. Elton E. Stuckly, Jr.TSTC Waco President

PRESIDENT

Dr. Elton E. Stuckly, Jr.

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Jan Osburn

EDITOR

Sarah-Jane Menefee

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary DrennonSarah-Jane MenefeeJan Osburn

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mark BurdineRyan GriponSarah-Jane Menefee

PHONE • (254) 867-3035E-MAIL • [email protected]

NUMBERS TO KNOW

Main (254) 799-3611Recruiting (254) 867-2360Admissions (254) 867-2362Alumni Association (254) 867-2026

TSTC MAGAZINE is published two times a year by the Marketing & Communications offi ce at Texas State Technical College Waco.

Texas State Technical College Waco is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award Associate of Applied Sci-ence degrees and Certifi cates of Completion. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Texas State Technical College Waco.

© Copyright 2012 Texas State Technical College Waco. All rights reserved.

A PUBLICATION OF TSTC WACO VOLUME 2, NUMBER 2

SPRING 2012

MAGAZINE

WRITE TO US:We welcome your letters. The editor reserves the right to determine the suitability of letters for publication and to edit them for accuracy and length. Letters should refer to material published in the magazine and include the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. If an alumni, please include degree and year of degree.

E-MAIL: [email protected]

WRITE:TSTC Waco Magazine3801 Campus Drive Waco, TX 76705 Attn: Marketing & Communications

1

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

From the President

Flowers in bloom at the Golf Course & Landscape Management greenhouse.

New things are blooming at TSTC

Page 3: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

5 A fresh start for Culinary ArtsWith a new building and more kitchens, this popular program is heating up

8 Drafting students give backCommunity-oriented class takes on Waco projects

9 Campus SnapshotNew Air Traffi c Control simulator

11 We all ADD upTSTC’s Quality Enhancement Plan takes a traditional math class for a surprisingly fun twist

15 Alumni FeatureJonathan Gomez creates for a living

17 Campus Q&AEdgar Padilla shares his vision for Career Services

ON THE COVER

Culinary Arts student Austin Lockwood with a plate of roast pork, spin-ach and other sides from one of the weekly Culinary luncheons.

Contents & Calendar

18 People & PlacesPhotos from TSTC events

Campus Snapshot Page 9-10

In This Issue:

APRIL

2 Summer registration begins for returning students

6 Student & employee holiday

9 Summer registration begins for new students

27 Last day to register for summer

End of semester

Spring commencement, 6 p.m., Waco Convention Center

MAY

7 Summer classes begin

22 Fall registration begins for returning students

28 Student & employee holiday

29 Fall registration begins for new students

JULY

4 Student & employee holiday

AUGUST

17 End of semester

Summer commencement, 6 p.m., Waco Convention Center

Last day to register for fall

27 Fall classes begin

SETEMBER

3 Student & employee holiday

OCTOBER

12 Last day to apply for graduation

For more events, go towaco.tstc.edu/calendar

Calendar of Events

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

2

Scan this QR code with your smartphone to view the calendar.

Page 4: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

3

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

tech notesCampus News & Briefs

As the 10-year accreditation period draws to a close, TSTC Waco’s Executive Team is hard at work for the reaffi rmation process with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges also called SACS. SACS is the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. Its mission is to enhance educational quality throughout the region and to improve the eff ectiveness of institutions by ensuring they meet standards estab-lished by the higher education community that address the needs of society and students. The Executive Team submitt ed compliance certifi cation in mid-March and will host an on-site visit in the fall.

TSTC Waco Executive Team leads SACS initiative

JET award provides CNC lathes The State of Texas Comptroller’s offi ce has notifi ed TSTC Waco that a $295,499 JET (Jobs for Every Texan) grant proposal has been funded. The project will be led by Jose Rodriguez, Mechanical Engineering Technology faculty member, and will facilitate the purchase of twelve Manual/ CNC lathes for use in the program’s Machine Shop, Machine Operations and Specialized Tools and Fixtures courses. The lathes that will be purchased with JET grant funds feature electron-ic numerical controls with industry-grade metal gears. TSTC anticipates that 100 students will use the new lathes during the fi rst year of fund-ing. A strong demand for machinists exists in the Central Texas region and throughout TSTC’s statewide service area.

Scout events at TSTC bring technology to next generation Area Girl and Boy Scouts will learn about technology at TSTC events hosted in March and April — the an-nual Boy Scout Heart of Texas Camp-O-Ree/Merit Badge College and the new Girl Genius STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Conference. At each event boys and girls can learn about technologies ranging from aviation to welding and earn a badge or patch. Events are sponsored by TSTC and several local groups.

MCI photography showcased at local exhibit Media Communications & Information Technology (MCI) students showcased their artistic photographs at the Carleen Bright Arboretum in February and March.

Some of the best student and graduate photos were selected for the exhibit. For many students, it was the fi rst time to have their work hung in a public gallery.

For more photos from the exhibit, go to Page 14.

From left: Ron Sanders, vice president for Student Learning; Carliss Hyde, vice president for Institutional Advancement; Paul Wood-fi n, vice president for Administrative & Financial Services; Shelli Scherwitz, executive director of Information Technology; Dr. Ben Cox, executive director of Institutional Eff ectiveness, Research & Planning; Dr. Elton E. Stuckly Jr., TSTC Waco president; Angela Ball, associate vice chancellor of Human & Organization Development; Rob Wolaver, executive vice president; and Becky Musil, executive director of Strategic Initiatives.

Student Ryan Gripon with one of his portraits at the exhibit.

Page 5: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

This annual award recognizes faculty and staff whose outstand-ing contributions and achievements benefi t the TSTC students and community. Along with recognition from the Chancellor, recipients are presented with a 2012 NISOD Excel-lence Award at the National Insti-tute for Staff and Organizational Development conference held at the end of May in Austin.

Campus News & Briefs

Stephen Tanton

Retention Programs & Placement

Services

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

4

2012 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence recipients

employee kudos

Casey Jones

Computer Science

Technology

Jan Osburn

Marketing & Communications

Carson Pearce

Aircraft Pilot Training

With the new year comes a new look for the TSTC website, www.waco.tstc.edu. The site provides visitors with improvements in ease of use, search, navigation and appearance. “The new site bett er refl ects our reputation as a leader in technical education and off ers visitors im-proved graphics with bett er user navigation in order for content to be quickly and easily accessed,” said Jan Osburn, director of TSTC Marketing & Communications. Features of the website include a drop-down menu naviga-tion, graphic map and calendar, landing pages for students and employees and updated copy on programs and services. Based on focus group research and trends in higher education websites, the new site design features a splashy front page with large graphics and photos and an interactive spotlight panel. The design features TSTC’s signature blue and red colors along with gold, a highlight color used extensively in TSTC Waco branding. Osburn said the web update took place in a shortened amount of time due to TSTC’s upcoming reaccreditation. “Our website committ ee did amazing work to create the new site in around three months,” Os-

burn said. “With our reaccreditation right around the corner we needed to work quickly to fi nish the highest priority pag-es fi rst. Some pages are still in develop-ment and we plan to have it all completed very soon.” The committ ee was comprised of staff and faculty from diff erent areas of the campus, including the Web Design & Development program. They started the web redesign by conducting website testing with current students, employees and high school students. Aft er creat-ing the site, the group did more testing with students from A.J. Moore Academy to ensure it was user-friendly. Since the site is still under de-velopment, students, employees and the public are encouraged to submit feedback when they can’t fi nd something or come across an error. A feedback butt on is located in the righthand corner of every page, and copying the URL of the page with the error helps speed up the repair process. “We’ll respond as quickly as we can,” Osburn said. “Your feedback is invaluable to us.”

New look, navigation for waco.tstc.edu

Scan this QR code to visit the full version of the site. Mobile version coming soon.

Page 6: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

... enjoyed a gourmet lunch in what she re-ferred to as the one of the nicest restaurants in Waco. “This is quite beautiful,” she said. “It’s clean and it’s new and it’s light. It has the atmosphere of a very nice restaurant with the tablecloths and china.” Walker and her friends enjoyed their meal in the dining room of the new Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center during one the weekly luncheons. It was her fi rst time to dine at the new facility and she was not only impressed with the atmosphere, but also with the food and the students who created it. “The food was all very tasty and well presented,” Walker said. “I heard some-where that you eat with your eyes fi rst, and they certainly pay att ention to that here. I

also love that students are both our chefs and our waiters. It gives them the opportu-nity to see the progression of how to work with clients before they get in the kitchen. It’s very entrepreneurial that they see what it’s like from all sides, just like if they were running a business.” One of Walker’s waiters, second-semes-ter student Dorothy Galanis, plans to open her own bakery some day and chose TSTC to get the training she needed. Aft er grow-ing up in the restaurant business — her family owns 1424 Bistro in Waco — Galanis said she knows the value of the new facility and equipment. “The new facility is amazing,” she said. “All the great equipment we get to work with is very nice. It’s the kind equipment you always dream of having at your own

5

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

A start

Amid the tinkle of glasses and chatter at different Amid the tinkle of glasses and chatter at different tables, Doloris Walker tables, Doloris Walker and a group of her friends ...

wac

o.ts

tc.e

du

Page 7: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

restaurant some day.” Past the formal dining room that culi-nary patrons see, the main att ractions of the new cen-ter are the three spacious commercial kitchens with industry-grade equipment that are dedicated for instruction in hot foods and baking and for restaurant and catering services. Fift h-semester student Austin Lockwood spent the majority of his time in the old culinary facility and can’t say enough about the change. “It’s like night and day,” Lockwood said. “Before, we were in one kitchen that was separated into three classes. Now it’s more

professional and it’s bett er for learning because we can see our instructors and they

can see us.” And with new equipment and space, Lockwood said, there isn’t the problem of waiting in line to fi nish your assigned lab. For Lockwood, who will graduate in the upcoming summer semes-ter, the building is a dream come true. “For a long time TSTC culi-nary students have done re-

ally good work, but the facility we worked in didn’t refl ect that,” he said. “Now we have something we can be proud of.” That sense of pride is practically univer-sal among the students in TSTC’s Culinary

6

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

“The training here is “The training here is wonderful and it’s a wonderful and it’s a great addition to our great addition to our city and to TSTC. This city and to TSTC. This will rival any other will rival any other culinary school culinary school around.”around.”

Greta W. WatsonGreta W. Watson

for Culinary Arts

Far left: Will Nickle puts together a fi nished plate in a Prep 2 lab class. Center left: Chef Mark Schneider assists student waiter Dorothy Galanis during a culinary lun-cheon. Center right: Students prepare a range of baked goods in the new baking lab. Far right: Tamara Panici fi nishing icing a pan of freshly baked cinnamon rolls.

By Sarah-Jane Menefee

Page 8: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

7

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

Culinary Arts

www.waco.tstc.edu/cul

For more information about the Culinary Arts degrees off ered at TSTC, call (254) 867-4868.

Gourmet luncheons are served from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays during the semester at the Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center located on the corner of 8th Street and Campus Drive.

G e t C o n n e c t e dG e t C o n n e c t e d

Scan this QR code to fi nd out more.

Arts program. Simone Haynes, another fi ft h-semester student, said the new fa-cility provides new learning experiences every day, but keeps the intimacy of the program. For her, cooking has always been about family and community, so TSTC feels like home. “We have a great sense of community here,” she said. “You get to know the chefs and the other students. It’s very close-knit. I just love it.” Back in the dining room, other patrons continue to enjoy their meals, and that same sense of community is present. From the Red Hat Society ladies who came for a good meal and good conversations, to the TSTC employees who have stepped out of their offi ces for an elegant lunch break, everyone who enters the culinary center is a part of

the support team for the future chefs in training. One notable patron and the build-ing’s namesake, Greta W. Watson, also stopped by for lunch with friends. Wife of long-time TSTC supporter Murray Watson Jr., and former home economics teacher, Watson said she is honored the facility bears her name. “To sit at a table and break bread is the highest compliment that you can give,” she said. “Having this building named for me feels like the best compli-ment I could receive.” It also is a great benefi t for Waco, Watson said. “The training here is wonderful and it’s a great addition to our city and to TSTC. This will rival any other culinary school around.“

Culinary patrons enjoy the atmosphere of the new dining room during one of the weekly luncheons.

The new Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center is located on the corner of 8th Street and Campus Drive.

Page 9: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

8

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

Drafting & Design Technology

Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Com-merce, New Hope Baptist Church, Cameron Park Zoo, Historic Waco Foundation and Hewitt VFW — what do all these have in common? These entities and more all have turned to TSTC’s Draft ing & Design Technol-ogy (DDT) students for assistance in major projects. For seven years now, under the leadership of DDT Instructor Chris McCauley, students pursuing either an architectural/civil or a mechanical/electronic draft ing degree have been working on a variety of community projects, gett ing experience they can carry into the workforce. “It was extremely valuable experi-ence,” said Tim McAdoo, 23, a 2011 DDT graduate who worked on the fall 2011 Historic Waco Foundation project along with Bradin Hopper (other students worked on the project

in previous semesters). “Working with an actual client as opposed to a simulation was very benefi cial.” In the most recent community project for the Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the chamber was pursuing a community develop-ment grant and needed a set of plans for retail offi ce space. Three students, Ignacio Rios, Virgil Moore and Aston Owens each submitt ed a plan, and the chamber incorporated elements from each to come up with an overall design. “They were absolutely thrilled with what the students put into them,” said McCauley. ”If they get the grant, they can use the submissions to com-municate with architects and engi-neers about the project.” They weren’t the only ones who have been impressed by the students’ work. Holly Browning, curator of collec-tions for the Historic Waco Founda-

tion, was equally impressed. “The students were wonderful to work with. The fl oor plans they pro-duced were far bett er than what we were expecting,” said Browning. “It’s been a fantastic experience. We’ve recommended the department to oth-ers who need fl oor plans.” It’s more than just giving back to the community, said McCauley. There is no substitute for gett ing vital hands-on experience in a real-life set-ting with real clients. And students don’t always have to go off -campus to get it, either. “The Aviation facility was origi-nally formed here on the backs of our students,” said McCauley. “Our DDT students did a vast amount of research, interviewing each aviation technology, and producing prelimi-nary plans.” There will be more projects to come in the future, too. With McCauley at the helm, you can count on it.

Drafting students give back to Waco community

Left: Students Edgar Andrade and Jeff Hildner take down measurements in New Hope Baptist Church. Top right: Gina Strube and Tasha Kloesel work on the Cattle Barrons’ Ball event layout in class. Bottom right: Tim McAdoo and Bradin Hopper present their plan sheets to Donald Davis and Holly Browning of the Historic Waco Foundation.

By Mary Drennon

Page 10: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

99

ww

w.w

aco

.tst

c.e

du

ww

w.w

aco

.tst

c.e

du

Page 11: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

TS

TC

WA

CO

MA

GA

ZIN

ES

PR

ING

20

12

SP

RIN

G 2

01

2

1010

snapshot Air Traffi c Control Technology’s new high fi delity tower simula-

tor is a 240-degree simulation of an FAA VFR Tower with three

controller positions for training in Flight Data/Clearance Deliv-

ery, Ground Control and Local Control.

Students learn how to control airplanes in a tower environ-

ment by clearing them to taxi to and from active runways and

clearing them for takeoff and landing. The simulator was pur-

chased with a $412,220 Wagner Peyser grant award and features

100 percent voice recognition software and six 55-inch high

defi nition fl at panel televisions to simulate the tower windows.

Page 12: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

11

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

TSTC’s Quality Enhancement Plan takes the traditional TSTC’s Quality Enhancement Plan takes the traditional math class for a surprisingly fun twistmath class for a surprisingly fun twist

ath. That short litt le word conjures up so much fear in people that researchers have developed measurability scales just to gauge anxiety levels. To get an idea of how dreadful many fi nd math, just

“Google” the subject and you’ll see that literally hundreds of websites are devoted to it. But all that could be about to change, if a group of TSTC instructors have anything to say about it. With the help of an innovative classroom and team-taught lessons, students who att end the developmental math class in room 202 at the John B. Connally Technology Center are treated to something extraordinarily diff erent. It’s not your typical classroom. The walls have magnetic paint and are coated with a material that eff ectively turns most of the entire room into a gi-ant whiteboard. The tables, too, are whiteboards, and there’s an iPad for every table. Two giant TV screens also grace the walls, among other features.And it’s not just the room itself that’s designed to change the way people view math. The approach and atmosphere in the classroom is something completely unlike traditional classes. Students

are encouraged to get up and write on the walls. They move around and mingle. They play games to relax. They work in teams. And they’re taught by a special team of instructors who encourage innovation, excitement and creativity. “With this environment we try to make it a relaxed, ‘no-fear’ kind of math,” said Suzanne Auten, assistant department chair of the Math-ematics department and a team member of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) Committ ee — the group responsible for creating the room and brainstorming ways to make math more friendly and approachable. As required for SACS accreditation, the college developed a QEP that would make a diff erence for TSTC students. So, Auten and fellow QEP team member Molly Borgmeyer, along with a commit-tee of employees from across campus, conducted a survey among faculty, staff , students and other stakeholders to see what area needed the most improvement. Math always headed the list. Indeed. Every semester, there are some 1,200 to 1,500 students in one of the developmental math courses — and that’s not even at the college level,

We all ADD Up

M

Students in the QEP math class solve equations in teams using the walls and tables to

write out their work and props such as candy to count.

By Mary Drennon

The goal of TSTC’s Quality Enhancement Plan is to increase student The goal of TSTC’s Quality Enhancement Plan is to increase student success in mathematics by incorporating a team-based, peer-group success in mathematics by incorporating a team-based, peer-group learning process for real-world application.learning process for real-world application.

Page 13: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

Quality Enhancement Plan

said Auten and Borgmeyer. “Sometimes students were spending up to three semesters gett ing up to where they should be when they get out of high school,” said Auten. “It’s not just our campus that needs to focus on math, it’s a nationwide concern,” added Borgmeyer. Of course, when students fi nd out they have to take remedial math they’re not very happy about it, especially when they realize they can’t get into their chosen technology until they pass at least one of the developmental math classes. Thus the need for a novel approach.In addition to an innovative environment and the relaxed, fun atmosphere, each one of the math instructors is paired with a technical instructor.

When students say they can’t see the relevance of math in their lives, the technical instructor can jump in and tell them exactly how relevant it re-ally is.

As exciting and diff erent as this approach is to bring up math scores and change att itudes, the real question is will it work? “I’ve never had it where they got it so fast,” said Auten, a 29-year teacher. “I’m seeing very positive att itudes and less anxiety.” Dental Assistant student Can-dice Snadon agrees. “I love the math class,” said Sna-

don, who added she’s always struggled with math in the past. “This is the fi rst time I ever really got it. It’s my favorite class out of all my classes.” Strong words that bode well for the future of math at TSTC.

“I love the math class ... “I love the math class ... This is the first time I This is the first time I ever really got it. It’s my ever really got it. It’s my favorite class out of all favorite class out of all my classes.”my classes.”

Candice Snadon Candice Snadon

Quality Enhancement Plan

said Auten and Borgmeyer. When students say they can’t see the relevance

Candice Snadon works on an in- class assignment with fel low

classmate Preston S cott in the QEP math lab.

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

12

Page 14: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

13

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

Campus News & Briefs

tech notes

Community, student involvement and improved com-munication are just a few of the ideas new members of the Student Leadership Council (SLC) have in mind as they focus on their charge to make the TSTC campus bett er. The group of 15 students were nominated by their departments and chosen by students in an online election to represent their respective divisions. “We’ve got a good group that represents the campus well,” the group’s advisor Lisa Listach said. “They all had to be elected by their peers. I think that makes a diff erence.”

New Student Leadership Council takes charge

Area Central Texas residents will have new higher education options, thanks to an agreement between Texas State Technical College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas in Killeen. TAMUCT President Dr. Marc Nigliazzo and TSTC Waco President Dr. Elton E. Stuckly Jr. joined together on Mon-day, Nov. 14, to sign a Memorandum of Agreement that will bring greater educational opportunities to students throughout Central Texas. The MOU covered transfer of credit in areas of aircraft pilot training and culinary arts.

Signed agreement with Texas A&M-Central Texas

The Heart of Texas (HOT) Chapter of Texas Chefs Associa-tion has named Culinary Arts Chef Kimberly Fehler the 2011 Pastry Chef of the Year. Chef Fehler is an executive chef and pastry chef, business owner and chef instructor. Her special-ties include artisan breads, desserts, catering, event planning and staff training. In addition to being named Pastry Chef of the Year, Fehler was named a VIP member of Cambridge’s Who’s Who. The special distinction, which was awarded for Excellence in Education, honors individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to achieving personal and professional success Fehler is a member of the American Culinary Federa-tion, the Texas Chef’s Association, the Heart of Texas Chef’s Association, the Women Chefs and Restaurateurs and the American Psychological Association. “It feels really good to have one’s peers give your skills and professionalism such a confi dent nod in this manner,” Fehler said. “I’m very proud to be the HOT Chefs Associa-tion Pasty Chef of the Year. “Chef Kimberly Fehler

Fehler named 2011 Pastry Chef of

the Year by Texas Chefs Association

employee kudos

Page 15: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

More things than cookies and fruitcakes are cooking over at Collin Street Bakery as they continue their partnership with TSTC’s Culinary Arts program. The historic Texas bakery has jumped on board with the program’s new building and donated close to $11,000 for an important piece of baking equipment. Department Chair Chef Mark Schneider said the double rack, proofer-retarder Collin Street donated will help pre-pare TSTC graduates for future jobs in baking and pastry shops where this type of equipment is standard. “We are thankful for Collin Street’s generous donation. Not only will it take our baking and pastry classes to a whole new level, but if our students want to go on and work for a bake shop or as a pastry chef, this is technology they will be expected to know how to use.”

New TSTC Publishing Titles

student kudos

Drag racing club takes on Camaro restoration project There’s not a Drag Car 101 class in the course schedule, but a group of students and employees who enjoy overhauling vehicles and racing them have formed the TSTC Technical Drag Racing As-sociation (TDRA) for racing enthusiasts. The TDRA has nearly 40 members comprised from several technologies on campus. It takes trips to a local drag strip each semester and is restoring a 1976 Camaro to use on the track.

TDRA members with the Camaro they are restoring.

14

Campus News & Briefs

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

TechCareers: Aviation PilotsThis book gives critical information prospective aircraft pilots need to know to gain the expertise required before sett ing off on a path to the skies. Also included are salary ranges for those in thefi eld and the education and training necessary to become a pilot. Writt en by Jodi Wheatley.

TechCareers: Graphic DesignA must-read for anyone interested in the fi eld of graphic design, this book provides important in-formation one needs to know for a career in print or digital design. It begins with an overview of the career, delves into the education and training needed and ends with a list of helpful resources to help you get started on your path to design. Writt en by Mike Jones.

The Art of Listening:Intuition & Improvisation in ChoreographyModern dance has evolved over time to encompass a wide variety of defi nitions. Step-ping out of comfort zones and following the voice of impro-visation are much-needed skill sets for modern choreogra-

phers. Through exploring the unfamiliar and uncomfortable, a dancer is able to fully access an authentic voice and create a true work of art. This book explores how to listen to and express creative voices, engage in creative processes and determine what choreography practices work for you, along with practical advice on rehearsal and performance etiquett e. Writt en by Darla Johnson.

These titles are coming soon in both print and digital formats from TSTC Publishing at select bookstores and online at htt p://publishing.tstc.edu and htt p://www.amazon.com.

To follow the group’s progress, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tstctdra or scan this QR code.

Collin Street Bakery partners with Culinary Arts, donates $11,000 piece of equipment

TEXASgenuine is a statewide mar-keting campaign to brand the qual-ity career and technical education that is Texas-focused and off ered by Texas public two-year community and technical colleges. TSTC has had employees serving on the advisory committ ee since its inception, helping guide the development of the campaign. The campaign not only will help build awareness of quality technical education and career training, but can serve as a reminder of the number of critical jobs that skilled technicians fi ll in Texas. Funding for this eff ort has been provided through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board with Discre-tionary Leadership funds received from the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006.

New TEXASGenuine campaign takes off statewide

Page 16: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

15

ww

w.w

aco

.tst

c.e

du

2010 Alumni Jonathan G omez 2010 Alumni Jonathan G omez

Page 17: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

TS

TC

WA

CO

MA

GA

ZIN

E

SP

RIN

G 2

01

2

16

Alumni

THE LIFE OF A THE LIFE OF A WORKING GRAPHIC WORKING GRAPHIC

DESIGNERDESIGNER When you’re just starting out as a graphic de-signer, earning a competitive wage is challenging. Unless you’re a really big name or have an inside track, fi nding steady work is even harder. Just ask Jonathan Gomez. The 2010 Advertising Design & Print Technology graduate had a number of short term contractual jobs before he got a call from another TSTC gradu-ate, James Brown. “During my fi nal semester at TSTC, our portfolios were reviewed by people who worked in the indus-try,” Gomez said. “James was one of the reviewers and he called to see if I was interested in working at The Dwyer Group.” Now if that name sounds familiar, it might just be because the company recently was featured on an episode of CBS’ “Undercover Boss.” Based in Waco, The Dwyer Group is the holding company of seven service-based franchise organizations: Aire Serv, Glass Doctor, Mr. Appliance, Mr. Electric, Mr. Rooter, Rainbow International and The Grounds Guys. With that many franchises, it’s easy to imagine that Gomez has his work cut out for him in his position as a graphic designer. But he doesn’t mind. He’s happy to have a good job with a company he calls ”well-grounded.” “The staff I work with is probably the best I’ve ever worked with,” he added. “The people I work for are very special people.” On his day-to-day job, Gomez works on an exten-sive variety of projects. From stylizing newslett ers to creating advertisements for billboards or news-papers, Gomez describes his position with Dwyer as “fun.” Recently, he even created – and wore – a mascot costume for The Dwyer Group’s newest fam-ily member, The Grounds Guys. Gomez said the experience at TSTC and guidance he received gave him a strong foundation in graphic

design. He gives particular credit to his Instructor Michael Lewis. “He really kept us connected with the outside world,” said Gomez, adding that it was important to see what others were doing to know for sure if his work was on par. Through the Graphics Design Club, Gomez went to conferences, competed in contests and saw what other students were doing. “It’s really an eye-opener,” said Gomez. “You’re trying to be the top person in class when you graduate. There’s going to be 10 or 15 people competing for the same job.” Gomez didn’t originally plan to att end TSTC. He was searching for a col-lege in the Dallas area and his aunt talked him into visiting TSTC on the way back home. He didn’t really want to, but he gave it 30 minutes. That 30-minute talk with the late Mike Torres, the Digital Media Design department chair at the time, turned into three hours and changed Gomez’s path forever. So, what would he say to students seeking to enter the fi eld? “Take advantage of the tools, expertise and guid-ance you’re given,” said Gomez. “Then push for quality work and consistent improvement in your designs.” Good advice from one who knows.

By Mary Drennon

TAKE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ADVANTAGE OF THE TOOLS, THE TOOLS, EXPERTISE EXPERTISE AND GUIDANCE AND GUIDANCE YOUYOU

,RE GIVEN. RE GIVEN.

THEN PUSH THEN PUSH FOR QUALITY FOR QUALITY WORK AND WORK AND CONSISTENT CONSISTENT IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT IN YOUR IN YOUR DESIGNS. DESIGNS.

JONATHAN GOMEZJONATHAN GOMEZ

Page 18: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

Q&A withEdgar PadillaCareer Services Coordinator

What are your goals for TSTC’s new Career Services Center? What will it off er students? Our goal is simple — to prepare students with the essential skills necessary to gain a competitive advan-tage in the job search process. Our focus will be on soft skills, those that all employers agree are lacking in college graduates. These include communication, inter-viewing, networking and the ability to adapt eff ectively in the workplace. Services include: resume and cover lett er writing, interview training and preparation (in-cluding mock interviews), job search and networking skills and business etiquett e and presentation. As the department grows, additional services and initiatives will be launched in close consultation with faculty and industry.

What can students do to improve soft skills such as interviewing well? It’s very important for students to pull themselves out of their comfort zone. Inherently, we all have common fears that may impede our employability — public speaking for example. Students should understand why these skills are so crucial and make an eff ort to practice them. A student can improve these skills by at-tending workshops, becoming involved on campus and preparing before they interview or att end a job fair. I would encourage students to visit Career Services for a one-on-one consultation. This gives us an opportunity to measure individuals’ communication abilities, and can lead to more structured feedback.

What can make a student stand out when hundreds apply for the same position? The feedback and research we conduct tells us that it is very apparent to an employer when a student has properly prepared. Conversely, an employer can eas-ily see lack of preparation. A well-constructed resume

with keyword inclusion, eff ective objective statement and proper articulation of skills will stand out from the crowd. The power of a strong cover lett er should never be underestimated. And interview research and preparation is arguably the most important skill. It’s our job to communicate to students that this chain of preparation can lead to a very rewarding career, so it’s worth the hours upon hours of planning. This is what will result in an advantage over their peers.

Is there opportunity for industry to interview students or visit with a department? We have dedicated facilities for industry to interview students, and we highly encourage visits from indus-try to our campus. Our faculty has profound ties to their respective industries, and they are very active in partnering with employers who recruit our students. Visits and interviews are an excellent way to provide a tangible product to students; it’s helpful for them to see that they can have a great career upon graduation and that companies are recruiting them aggressively.

What role can TSTC alumni play in helping soon-to-be graduates fi nd jobs? We envision an initiative that will partner TSTC alumni with students who currently are training in their fi eld. Not only does this serve to strengthen the bond that alumni have to TSTC, but it also creates a knowledge base of alumni who have proven them-selves in the industry. No amount of research can provide the information that an industry professional can, and we know that alumni can play a key role in the career prospects of our graduates.

Campus Q&A

17

ww

w.w

aco.

tstc

.edu

To learn more about TSTC’s Career Services offi ce, contact Edgar Padilla at (254) 867-3023

or [email protected].

With overarching vision for preparing students for the job hunt and connecting them to industry, Edgar Padilla, TSTC’s new Career Services Coordinator, shares plans for his department.

Page 19: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E FA

LL 2

010

14

Event Photos

TSTC

WAC

O M

AGA

ZIN

E SP

RIN

G 2

012

18

people & placesBusiness After Hours at the Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center

Col. James T. Connally Aerospace Center Progress

Fall 2011 Graduation

Recent Student Events

Dr. Stuckly honors Murray Watson Jr. and his wife Greta W. Watson.

Executive Vice President Rob Wolaver talks with local business people.

Attendees enjoy a buffet of hot appetizers in the dining room of the Culinary Arts Center.

The aerospace center’s front entrance.A view of the aviation maintenance hangar.The new TSTC Air Traffi c Control tower.

Rachel Easterling carries the TSTC banner. Chancellor Michael Reeser gives an inspira-tional commencement speech.

Students listen to the graduation speakers.

Basketball intramurals Phi Theta Kappa Induction MCI Student Art Show

Scan this QR code to see more event photos on TSTC’s Flickr:www.fl ickr.com/tstcwaco

Page 20: TSTC Magazine Spring 2012