Campus News

GC Workforce Training Open House draws positive reviews in 2nd year

Both high schools send students; community members also attend

Photo by John Rudd

Josh Hook, Garrett College's coordinator of career and technical education, oversees local high school students using augmented welders during last Thursday's Second Annual Workforce Training Open House at the Beitzel Career Technology Training Center.

Garrett College's Second Annual Workforce Training Open House last Thursday drew attendees ranging from members of the local community to student groups from both Garrett County Public Schools high schools.

"It was a great opportunity not only to learn about our programming but also about scholarships, funding, and supportive services for students of all ages," said Julie Yoder, dean of Continuing Education & Workforce Development at Garrett College.

The event, which took place at the Beitzel Career Technology Training Center, highlighted the wide range of skilled trades and allied health programs available at the CTTC. Attendees were able to try out technology that's enhancing numerous GC workforce training programs, including virtual welders in the welding program and the simulation mannequin in the paramedic studies program.

"The day was really built around active engagement," said Josh Hook, GC's coordinator of career and technical education.

"I was happy to see so many people from the community come in and learn what Garrett College has to offer," said Donna Bittinger, assistant director of workforce development, noting the ability to "taste test" a program through simulation was popular with attendees.

Academic Success Specialist Karen Linton said the open house was an eye-opening experience for people making their first trip to the Beitzel CTTC.

"I don't think a lot of people realized how many programs we offer here," said Linton.

Garrett County Community Action, Garrett County Public Schools, the Garrett County Health Department, and the Western Maryland Consortium were all event partners. Tom Tanis, a career counselor with Western Maryland Consortium, said students seemed quite engaged.

"Students could actually see the classes and talk to the instructors," said Tanis. "The open house also gave us a chance to talk to them about financing their education."

Tanis added that students were "really excited and ready to go. They knew exactly what programs they wanted to see."