Western Nevada College’s Tech Prep Consortium has been recognized nationally for its Career Pathways program. The National Association for Career Pathways Leadership selected WNC for the 2013 Rigorous Programs of Study National Award for exceeding what other states offer students in career and technical programs. The award recognizes the college’s collaboration with industry and work by faculty and staff to provide the essential curriculum and instruction in technology-automated systems, construction, machine tool technology and welding.
One important and innovative online tool that WNC has developed to assist students and the public in preparing for technical careers is the Career Pathways section of the college website: www.wnc.edu/career_pathways/. Users can explore current career requirements, resources, and real time regional job availability in Business & Marketing, Health Science & Public Safety, Information & Media Technologies, and Skilled Technical Sciences.
“This is recognition for our programs in not only meeting the rigorous standard, but exceeding that in many areas,” said Kevin Edwards, WNC Tech Prep coordinator.
Sherry Black, WNC director of Career and Technical Education, said after finishing the program, students often complete industry certifications and licenses, which employers recognize and value.”
WNC’s program components include partnerships, professional development, accountability and evaluation systems, college and career readiness standards, course sequences, credit transfer agreements, guidance counseling and academic advisement, teaching and learning strategies and technical skills assessments.
By virtue of receiving the award, WNC’s Tech Prep/Career Pathways program submission will be presented on the NACPL website at nacpl.org.
