Access Magazine Fall 2019

FALL 2019

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E-Commerce AAS Degree

First in the

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SUCCESS TERMS Semesters

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Practical Nursing Program Ranked #4 in Georgia Albany Technical College’s Practical Nursing (PN) Program has been ranked as one of the best in Georgia

by PracticalNursing.org in the annual rankings list for 2019. Out of 21 schools analyzed, 10 were ranked and Albany Tech was ranked fourth in the state. Nursing programs were assessed on several factors which represent how well a program supports students towards licensure and beyond.

PracticalNursing.org analyzed past and present first time NCLEX-PN “pass-rates” - weighted by year. Methodology used included: • Retrieving NCLEX-PN pass rates from all the LPN & LVN programs • Pass rates were analyzed going back to the most recent years of data available up to 5 years • Schools pass rates were averaged together and weighted by the recency of the exam, e.g. pass rates in 2018 count more towards overall rankings than scores from 2014

publishing our annual rankings list since 2014,” stated officials at PracticalNursing.org.

The NCLEX-RN exam is used by all state boards of nursing across the United States to help assess a student’s competency and is required for licensure.

Also, many state boards of nursing use the total, overall NCLEX-RN pass rate for a school as one of the main ways to approve a school’s ability to provide a nursing education in the state. The pass rates are looked at as one of the best measures to determine a nursing program’s student preparedness.

“To be selected as the number four in the top 10 PN nursing programs in the state of Georgia is truly an honor,” said Teresa Darity, Chair/Instructor Practical Nursing at Albany Tech. “We attribute this distinction to a devoted nursing faculty and staff who are focused on ensuring student success. The credit also goes to our committed and hard-working students that we proudly assist in entering the local workforce.”

“We pride ourselves for being the leading LPN advancement and ranking agency. We have been For more information about the ATC Nurses Week or the Practical Nursing Program at Albany Technical College, contact Teresa Darity at 229.420.1025 or email tdarity@albanytech.edu.

WELCOME

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Welcome to the latest issue of ACCESS! According to the Roman General Vegetius, the time to prepare for war is during peace (Si vis pacem, para bellum). Thomas Jefferson is credited with saying, “The eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.” In the Hebrew Bible, Joseph recommends to Pharaoh that Egypt store grain during seven years of plenty to prepare for seven years of famine. To quote John Kennedy, “it is an unfortunate fact that we can secure peace only by preparing for war.” The motto of the Boy Scouts of America is “Be Prepared.”

It may not seem immediately apparent, but each quote or statement is applicable to the contemporary circumstance related to workforce preparation. Of course, those who do not have a rewarding career because they do not have the needed skill sets should attend a Technical College System of Georgia institution (preferably Albany Technical College).

However, those who are doing well should prepare for the inevitability that the landscape around them will change and that their skill sets will become stale or obsolete. Not only will the skills needed to secure a rewarding career change, the change will occur at an accelerated pace.

Before the earth cooled, when I was a high school and college student, I worked several jobs that didn’t provide an income sufficient to comfortably raise a family. I worked as a department store salesclerk, a fast food fry cook, a construction laborer, a school bus driver, and a hospital orderly. The skill sets I learned in order to become an accountant were obsolete 10 years after I graduated from college. The same can be said for almost every baby boomer.

Workforce obsolescence is likely to occur at a faster rate for generation Xers and millennials. Continued economic affluence can only be achieved through adapting ahead of the technological curve.

FEATURE STORIES

Read insights about the following programs at Albany Tech.

Frank Flanigan

Program Chair, Fire Science

O’Brien Arnett

Program Chair, Marketing Management

There is as much uncertainty in a strong economy as in a weak one.

Complacency is the enemy. One can never over prepare for change. ®

Success Terms 7+7 Semesters

Dr. Anthony O. Parker President

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CDL Thank You Letter

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ACCESS is a news magazine published by the Marketing and Public Relations Office at Albany Technical College.

Send inquiries to publicrelations@albanytech.edu

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FEATURE

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COMBINING FIRE & EMS INTO ONE DEGREE ®

An Innovative New Approach to Workforce Demands in the Community and Statewide

Interview with Frank Flanigan, Department Chair, Fire Science Division, Fire Services – 18 Years

Q: What is offered under the Fire

Science Program at Albany Tech?

Frank Flanigan: There is a variety of

opportunities for Fire Services and the Emergency fields at Albany Technical College. A candidate coming in wanting to study just the fire side of the program can take the Professional Firefighter Diploma program. There is a Fire Officer program offered also. If there is a desire to become EMS personnel, we have a new Fire and Emergency Services Occupational degree. It gives you both components of the Fire and EMS and is a degree designed for promotional purposes at the occupational level.

Today’s industry requires both certifications and Albany Tech’s programs are designed with this in mind. Entry levels are Firefighter I and Firefighter II on the fire side and Basic EMT and the Advanced EMT on the EMS side.

A student who comes in and takes the program has both entry level occupational certifications and they also have a degree component attached to it for further promotional purposes.

This is why it is called the “Entry Level Occupational Degree.” At this point, a person can decide if they would like to further their education on the Paramedicine side or the Fire Science side. Each one bridges into the other.

Q: Out of 22 Technical Colleges in the

State of Georgia, Albany Tech is the first one to start this program?

FF: We are the first one to see a need

for dual certification and a degree concept. There are programs out there that provide both certifications, but it is at a diploma level. Yes, this is the only degree of its kind offered in the Technical College System of Georgia.

Q: What is the job placement percentage in this field?

FF: Placement in this field in the area

we serve is 99%, but this program has firefighters all over Georgia and Florida.

Q: When are classes offered?

FF: We offer both day and evening

classes. Evening classes allow working students to have a more flexible schedule. Instructors teach four nights a week Monday through Thursday.

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and Savannah State University. This can be a bridge into a four-year bachelor degree of Fire Administration.

Q: What is involved

in the courses? Is it all just book work?

“Albany Tech is the first college in the state of Georgia to combine both Firefighter and EMT and create a new degree.”

Q: What is the demand for this

combined degree?

FF: The demand in the Public Safety

field is growing. 70% of the fire services workforce it is on a volunteer basis.

Those currently in this field are aging and retiring. This creates a need for a younger and new work force to take the place of the individuals retiring. EMS is growing at an even faster rate because you have a growing elderly population demographic.

We need more quality, qualified students to actually serve the future needs of the industry. Albany Tech is offering the solution to this growing need in an industry driven concept. The industry demanded it and the industry is getting it through the program at the college.

Q: Are Fire Services the first on the scene?

FF: Typically, yes. It is becoming more cost effective to have both Firefighter and EMS dual certified individuals on the same truck. There are more fire departments than there are EMS departments. The demand is for the dual certification which is more cost effective for the counties and cities that hire these individuals.

Q: With this new Fire and Emergency Services Occupational Degree there seems to be more entry level opportunities?

FF: That is the big picture. There are so many entry points into gaining certifications. We have options to move up in Fire Services. If a person must have further certifications and education, there is certainly a variety of possibilities.

Albany Tech offers the Firefighter I and Firefighter II, Fire Officer I and Fire Officer II and even Instructor I certifications.

These are the industry standards for positions in the field. It really depends on the entity that hires the student and what the need is at that location.

The objective is to fill the needs in the easiest way possible in order to meet the workforce demands in this industry.

The idea is to be a one stop, one shop location at Albany Tech, to get all of the training at one time in one location.

Q: Are there 4-year options to advance your degree?

FF: Yes. We have variety of continuing education pathways through East Georgia State College, Valdosta State University

FF: No. It’s hands on, practicals, and bookwork. As a student you go through the life of learning how to become a firefighter.

We do not make you a firefighter. That is something that must be learned on the job.

Our program is set up on Success Terms.

The first semester (seven weeks) a student will be bombarded with Firefighter I materials. Students will be required to do live hands-on training, classroom work, and will be introduced to live fire. That’s just in the first seven weeks. After passing all exams, students are now employable.

In the second term, students will be immersed into the Firefighter II curriculum involving more hands-on live fire action.

Q: How does the program work?

FF: Everyone who takes the Fire Science curriculum takes the Fire Officer core classes. The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) offers three embedded certificates in the fire science program; Basic Company Fire Officer, Fire Officer I and Fire Officer II. Albany Tech’s program allows students who have taken those courses and are registered as certified Firefighters in the state of Georgia to actually take the National Professional Qualification Standards Test on Fire Officer I and Fire Officer II. Many of the students taking classes already work in fire services and are qualified to take those tests. The average student coming in is not a certified firefighter, so they do not get to test out at the Fire Officer I Pro Board level, but they go through the same curriculum.

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Q: Tell us about state requirements. Can you be a firefighter but not certified?

FF: TCSG cannot

certify candidates.

We can prepare them by training them and getting them nationally tested to become state certified from the entity that hires them. TCSG technical colleges are basically the training divisions (academies) for the fire service in the state of Georgia. We get the students prepared for certification.

Q: Is there a new Fire Science and EMS degree?

FF: Yes, there is a new degree for graduates to be dually certified in Fire Science and EMS. It saves taxpayers money by having a dually certified workforce, operating from one department or one building versus two separate buildings.

Q: Are you seeing more and more

fire stations having an ambulance on location?

FF: It really varies from department to department. For example, Lee County has both fire and EMS based out of one of their stations because they are truly a combined department. Other area departments have dually certified personnel, but they do not have an ambulance to maintain.

When transporting a victim, you must follow certain guidelines. It requires a certain license and certain components have to be in place before you can transport a patient. A lot of fire services do not have a license to be able to transport patients. As first responders they can treat, but they cannot transport.

The industry is pushing to have more personnel certified to treat patients.

Q: Will there be more entry points with the new Success Terms?

FF: Yes, it allows more entry points, especially on the firefighter side both for fall and spring classes. It allows for a smooth transition into the next portion of

the program without a delay or break in their studies.

The new program is designed for the person already in the industry as it offers credit for on-the-job experience. If an EMS employee needs fire education, they may get credit for the EMS job experience. If a fire service employee needs EMS education, then credit may given for the job experience in fire services.

Q: Are there pathways to higher degrees offered?

FF: The industry requires more education in order to be promoted. The Fire and EMS degree program has pathways to both Paramedicine and Fire Science and even further to a bachelor’s of Fire Administration.

We have a variety of colleges we have built higher degree pathways to, such as, Valdosta State University and East Georgia State College.

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photographer.

My parents provided me with all the means.

They provided me with camera equipment.

I worked on the school newspaper, catalogs the whole 9 yards.

I built a strong portfolio. When I graduated, I applied in 1984 the week after graduation to the Albany Herald.

I was offered a position that day just off of a portfolio that I developed in high school.

Q: Online classes have been a topic of

conversation. How does that apply to the Fire Science program?

FF: Certification is not offered online

for this program. Certification requires evaluation and students cannot be properly evaluated in an online environment. In this particular field, we have tried online classes and it is not as effective. The online concept does not allow the student to retain the information they can get in a classroom setting.

I have seen and done just about everything Albany has to offer as a professional photographer. Some of the things that I covered included residential fires. I got to the point where I wanted to know what it was like on the other side of the yellow tape. I researched and reached out to a few people already in the system.

In 2001 I put my letter of resignation in at the Albany Herald and accepted a position at the Albany Fire Department.

placement?

A question I am asked is what made you want to get into the fire service? Of course, I wanted to see what was on the other side of the yellow tape, but the big thing was, and it came up in the interview, “I want to drive the big red truck.”

FF: Once students are certified, they get

Q: You could see as a firefighter you were

Q: What have you seen in terms of job employed. Our record of job placement is 99%.

Q: How did you decide to get into Firefighting?

FF: Firefighting was not my first choice as a profession. I wanted to be a

helping people and saving lives, right?

FF: It’s truly not an individual thing. It’s a

team award and I went to work every day wanting to be there for my team and be there for the community, and the residents of Albany and Dougherty County.

We don’t go to work wanting to be heroes. As firefighters, we don’t go to work looking for accolades. When we are called, somebody is usually having a bad day, so we just try to make it better.

Q: What stands out in those years

working with your team on the big red truck?

FF: I can honestly say one of the more

memorable moments in my career was the day I was teamed up with one of my former students. We actually got to work together.

“When it comes down to it when we are called somebody is having a bad day so we just try to make it better.”

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COSMETOLOGY AND ESTHETICS

A REFRESHED PROGRAM AT ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE COSMETOLOGY PROGRAM DEFINED Cosmetologists offer a wide range of beauty services, such as shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling of hair. They may advise clients on how to care for their hair at home. In addition, cosmetologists may be trained to give manicures, pedicures, and scalp and facial treatments; provide makeup analysis; and clean and style wigs and hairpieces.

The Cosmetology program emphasizes specialized training in safety, sanitation, state laws, rules, and regulations, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, skin, hair, and nail diseases and disorders, hair treatments and manipulations, hair shaping, hair styling, artificial hair, braiding/ intertwining hair, chemical reformation and application, skin and nail care, hair coloring, hair lightening, reception, sales, management, math, reading, writing, interpersonal relations development, computer skills, employability skills, and work ethics.

FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY Employment of hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists will increase by about 20 percent, much faster than average. This growth will primarily come from an increasing population, which will lead to greater demand for basic hair services. Additionally, the demand for hair coloring and other advanced hair treatments has increased in recent years, particularly among baby boomers and young people. This trend is expected to continue, leading to a favorable outlook for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists.

REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A COSMETOLOGIST All states require barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists to be licensed.

To qualify for a license, candidates are required to graduate from a stateapproved barber or cosmetology program and then pass a state exam for licensure.

The curriculum meets state licensing requirements of the State Board of Cosmetology. Program graduates are employable as a cosmetology salesperson, cosmetologist, salon manager, or a salon owner. We admit both Ability to Benefit (ATB) and High School Dual Enrollment students.

ESTHETICIAN Students will perform facials, waxing and many other skin care treatments. These non-invasive treatments are related to the health and beautification of the skin. Estheticians are state-licensed health and wellness professionals and must pass specific written and practical state examinations to earn licensure through the state board.

SALARY EXPECTATIONS The median hourly wage for barbers was $12.33 in May 2017. The median hourly wage for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists was $11.95 in May 2017. * Source: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes351011.htm#st CONSIDER YOUR NEW CAREER Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists work mostly in a barbershop or salon. Physical stamina is important, because they are on their feet for most of their shift. Many work full time, but part-time positions are also common.

BENEFITS TO ENTERING THE CULINARY ARTS PROGRAM • Low Cost of Tuition and Books (Hope Grant eligible and part of the Governor’s Initiative) • High Placement Rate • State-of-the-art lab for Teaching

• Timely Completion of Program • High Career Demand • Flexible Scheduling (Day and Evening Classes)

Contact Arniecesha Price at 229.430.6140 or aprice@albanytech.edu for more information or visit albanytech.edu

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STATE AND NATIONAL WINNERS STATE WINNERS DENTAL ASSISTING

GOLD Kimberly Adams (center) SILVER Sarah Braziel (left) BRONZE Laporshia Turner (right)

STATE WINNER MASONRY

GOLD Khalif Collier, Sr.

NATIONAL WINNER DENTAL ASSISTING BRONZE Sarah Braziel (left)

Pictured with Ivey Spears, Dental Assisting Chair/Instructor

NATIONAL WINNER MASONRY

SILVER Khalif Collier, Sr. (right)

Pictured with Clifford Sindgleton, Masonry & Construction Chair/Instructor

SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA provides educational programs, events and competitions that support career and technical education (CTE). SkillsUSA empowers its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens. SkillsUSA improves the quality of our nation’s future skilled workforce through the development of Framework skills that include personal, workplace and technical skills grounded in academics.

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

NOREEN MCGEE Mathematics Instructor

2019 National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Award Winner

Noreen McGee, Mathematics instructor for Albany Technical College, has been teaching for the past seventeen years, with the last seven at ATC. She earned a both bachelor’s and master’s degree in Secondary Education/Mathematics from Thomas University in Thomasville, Georgia. Additionally, she received a master’s degree and certificate in middle grade education from Lesley University and is certified in middle grades and secondary education mathematics as well as being a certified proctor. In addition to teaching at ATC, her teaching experience includes serving as a substitute teacher & proctor for Thomas County City Schools, math instructor for the GEAR UP program at Thomas University, and Math/Engineering Teacher at Monroe Comprehensive High School. Currently, she is a mentor/coach for the Albany Tech Middle School Robotics Team and a member of the Professional Development Committee at Albany Tech.

In 2017, Noreen was a Rick Perkins nominee, a statewide award designed to recognize technical college instructors who make significant contributions to technical education through innovation and leadership in their fields.

Her love of teaching extends beyond the traditional classroom and provides tutoring for students of various ages in math and science in her spare time.

Defense Grant Awarded to Assist Veterans and Their Spouses in Southwest Georgia in the local community. Albany Technical College will enter into a one-year agreement with City and County Governments of Albany, Dougherty County. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed Tuesday morning, June 11, 2019.

Under the agreement, Albany Technical College in collaboration with the City and County Governments of Albany, Dougherty County will provide career and technical training services to the military personnel and/or their spouses who are transitioning out of service.

Albany Technical College has been selected as the fiscal agent of a Defense Grant, offered by the Technical College System of Georgia Office of Workforce Development.

This Defense Community Economic Development Fund will directly impact the lives of military veterans and their spouses

The Defense Grant amount is $59,646 and Albany Technical College is responsible for meeting all financial and programmatic requirements for this grant. The period of performance for the grant is June 1, 2019 - May 31, 2020.

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HONORED ATC PATHWAYS STUDENTS: MYKIYAH DANIELS DOUGHERTY HIGH – FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY JAYLA FOWLER WESTOVER HIGH – US AIR FORCE ESHAUN HARVEY TERRELL CO. HIGH – TROY UNIVERSITY VALENCIA HILL WESTOVER HIGH – KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY TAYLOR HUFF DOUGHERTY HIGH – XAVIER UNIVERSITY – NEW ORLEANS

@ ALBANY TECH

PATHWAY SIGNING NINE STUDENTS SIGN AGREEMENTS

On Monday, April 22, 2019, nine dual enrollment students to continue their education at various universities to complete their bachelor’s degrees. One Dual Enrollment student has plans to join the US Air Force.

Dual Enrollment allows high school students to begin their post-secondary education while still attending high school. Albany Tech has articulation agreements with several colleges allowing students to smoothly transition into obtaining their bachelor’s degree.

MARKASHIA NEWBILL MONROE HIGH – FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY ERIN SIBLEY WESTOVER HIGH SCHOOL – ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY TYRELL SMITH RANDOLPH-CLAY HIGH – FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY CANDICE TEAL DOUGHERTY HIGH – VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY

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JEANETTA MILES Drafting Technology Diploma (2013) Drafting Technology Associate Degree (2015) with an Architectural Drafting Specialization

JOB TITLE: CAD Drafter - at SRJ Architects Inc. AT ALBANY TECH: Drafting Technology Diploma (2013) and Drafting Technology Associate Degree (2015) with an Architectural Drafting Specialization THE ALBANY TECH EXPERIENCE: Albany Technical College helped me to obtain a stable life and a career that I love. The training and education I’ve received enabled me to become a good provider for my two children.

I feel that I’m finally self-sufficient after being able to realize the “American Dream” of home ownership. I’ve recently purchased my first home which sits on one acre of land with 15 pecan trees. Albany Tech makes dreams become reality.

OTHER EDUCATION/JOB EXPERIENCES: Currently employed as a full-time CAD Drafter at SRJ Architects Inc., I am assisting

with major projects in our local and surrounding area, including Albany Housing Authority, Pike County School System, and the Stewart County School System.

Through professional development with SRJ Architects, I have obtained numerous certificates relating to my profession including, but not limited to, Commercial Roofing and Metal Building Components.

FUTURE: My short-term goal is to enroll at Kennesaw State University in the School of Architecture, and obtain a Bachelor of Architecture degree. After obtaining my bachelor’s degree, I hope to become a Project Manager with SRJ Architects Inc. in Albany, Georgia and continue my passion for architectural drafting.

ROBERT HURD 2018 Industrial Systems Technlogy Degree EMPLOYER: Tift Regional Medical Center AT ALBANY TECH: Industrial Systems Technology Degree (2018) THE ALBANY TECH EXPERIENCE: Albany Tehcnical College has given me the education necessary to obtain a career and grow as an Industrial Technicain.

OTHER EDUCATION/JOB EXPERIENCES: I worked at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and M&M Mars in Albany, Georgia in their maintenance departments.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS: I am a GASHE, Georgia Society for Healthcare Engineers, member.

FUTURE: My goal is to eventually advance into a supervisory position.

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CHANGING WITH THE TIMES ®

KEEPING UP WITH THE DEMANDS OF BUSINESS

E-Commerce is now being offered at the degree level for the first time in the Technical College System of Georgia at Albany Technical College Interview with O’Brien Arnett, Marketing Management and E-Commerce Program Chair and Instructor at Albany Technical College Albany Technical College has new opportunities for students starting in the fall of 2019. A new E-commerce Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is now a part of the program offerings.

E-commerce AAS degree is five terms in length, designed for students who are interested in entry-level employment in the fields of Internet Marketing

in business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) transactions. This degree program is a blend of business, management, marketing, and information technology courses. Individuals seeking initial employment in the electronic commerce field or already employed in a related area and seeking career advancement will benefit from this program.

“The Marketing Management Program here at Albany Tech is designed for students to enter into entry-level positions

in the management and marketing fields. Some of the areas we focus on are sales, consumer behavior, marketing research and visual merchandising. As everything is shifting with technology, we have incorporated how to place ads on social media, working on different aspects of marketing, allowing students to be versatile. These students can go into different areas that interest them. There are many entrepreneurs coming through the marketing program here at Albany Tech” says

O’Brien Arnett, Program Chair of Marketing Management Program at ATC. Many organizations are shifting to E-commerce as the brick and mortar environment is moving to more online.

Online sales have increased tremendously. Thus, it would be beneficial for most businesses to shift to an online presence in addition to brick and mortar.

Arnett goes on to say, “E-commerce is the new focus that we see evolving currently. With retail shifting to

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E-commerce is the new focus we see evolving currently. With retail shifting to more online sales, it allows consumers more opportunities to search, preview and purchase online from the comfort of their own homes. more online sales, it allows consumers more opportunity to search, preview and purchase online from the comfort of their own homes. Online sales were

at $2.3 trillion in 2017 and the growth rate is expected to continue over the next few years. People who are currently in business or want to go into business should consider an omnichannel approach in their marketing to allow consumers to connect with them in different ways. If your business is not considering this, then you could be losing vital sales.”

“Current consumer climate is to be able to shop from the convenience of their own home. Retailers have to create these virtual spaces for people to shop on the consumer’s terms of time and location.

This online approach is vital in a marketing plan,” stated Arnett.

A student can work from home to obtain this degree. The E-commerce program is multidisciplinary: Computer Information Systems Technology is included with some business background and multiple areas in Marketing. With all of these areas covered, there is a creation of an employee or entrepreneur that has an excellent E-commerce preparation.

The E-commerce program is a “Flex” program which allows students to do the majority of their classes online, but there will be some classes where the student may desire to be in person for a better hands-on understanding of the processes. A person may be busy, have a family or many obligations in any given day.

Albany Tech allows a person to obtain a degree, but in a way that works with the student’s schedule. Most of the classes will be online, but there are opportunities for a face-to-face interaction with the faculty.

Once a student gets an associate degree at Albany Tech, there are agreements with different colleges that allow them to move on with their education. Opportunities to get a bachelor’s degree are already set in place and Albany Tech will guide that process. Some of the colleges that have agreements include Albany State University, Andrew College, Georgia Military College, Georgia Southwestern State University and Valdosta State University. Students have an array of options when it comes to continued education beyond the associate degree.

It is easy to see O’Brien Arnett is pleased about his graduates, “It’s always exciting as an instructor to see your students move on into the community and become successful. Outside of the classroom environment, we have a marketing lab where they have a chance to create window displays, hands-on opportunities creating presentations, and even a retail lab experience as if they own the business. There is also website development where we create and structure online pages and social media relating to a business. Branding is discussed concerning products or services.”

With this shift into more of a dual online and in-person sales environment, jobs are expected to increase in the following areas: advertising copywriter, e-commerce consultant, programmer, webmaster, web designer, market research analyst, e-commerce analyst, and a host of administration careers.

For More Information on how you can get started on your new career in E-commerce call O’Brien Arnett, Marketing Management Program Chair, at 229-430-1823.

�

Some of the areas we focus on are sales, consumer behavior, marketing research and visual merchandising.

As everything is shifting with technology, we have incorporated how to place ads on social media, working on different aspects of marketing, allowing students to be versatile.

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COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS

CYBERSECURITY A REFRESHED PROGRAM AT ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Computer Information Systems’ Cybersecurity program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts, principles, and techniques required in the acquisition, recording, organization, retrieval, display, and dissemination of information. The need for cybersecurity is more important now for practically every business no matter the size. Program graduates are qualified for employment as Information Security Specialists.

INFORMATION SECURITY SPECIALIST The Information Security Specialist protects systems by defining access privileges, control structures, and resources. Additionally, an Information Security Specialist recognizes problems by identifying abnormalities; reporting violations. Upgrades system by implementing and maintaining security controls.

A Security Specialist is a catchall description for a wide variety of entryto intermediate-level IT security jobs. In the majority of cases, a Security Specialist is responsible for designing, testing, implementing and monitoring security measures for a company’s systems as well as the responsibility of administrative tasks.

In addition, Security Specialists tend to be all-rounders. Security Specialists will configure firewalls and implement compliance measures as well as being adept in pen testing, auditing, and post-incident analysis. In some cases, Security Specialists may be the one responsible for developing an infosec strategy, recommending security products, and even training other employees. (source: https://www.cyberdegrees. org/jobs/security- specialist/)

REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME AN INFORMATION SECURITY SPECIALIST For many professionals currently in the cybersecurity field, education came by way certificate programs and in-the-field training versus degree programs. Educational opportunities at the college level are now becoming available. Albany Technical College offers cybersecurity in a technical college certificate (26 hours), a diploma (57 hours) and a degree (72 hours).

ONLINE OR ON-CAMPUS DEGREE The Associate of Applied Science degree in Cybersecurity, offered online and on campus, prepares students to begin or advance technology and network security careers in government, military, manufacturing, service, education and other private, public and nonprofit sectors. Instructional coursework teaches students how to create and execute a digital security strategy that supports and defends data resources managed by an employer.

• Learn how to gather data and evidence employed in prosecuting cybercrimes, and to develop security safeguards and disaster recovery plans.

• Develop ethical, innovative and practical intelligence, and networking solutions based on strategic technology applications and data-driven assessments.

• Learn how to defend computer networks against attacks by worms, viruses and other criminal acts.

CYBERSECURITY Cybersecurity is the state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data, or the measures taken to protect a computer or computer system against unauthorized access or attack from the internet.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: • Network or Systems Administration • Digital Forensics Engineering • Digital Security Project Management • Information Technology & Assurance • Computer Programmer • Cyber Risk & Strategy Analysis • Cyber Intelligence

FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY “Cybersecurity is very obviously a job sector of the future. Official estimates put job growth in the sector at 37% per year at least through 2022 – and that is probably conservative. At the start of 2018, there were an estimated half million cybersecurity jobs unfilled in the U.S. alone.”

Stated Taylor Armerding on Forbes.com (Cybersecurity: Not Just “A” Job - Many Jobs Of The Future Oct 9, 2018)

BENEFITS TO ENTERING THE COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS’ CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM • Timely Completion of Program • Low Cost of Tuition and Books (Hope Grant Eligible and part of • High Career Demand • Flexible Scheduling the Governors Initiative) • High Placement Rate (Day and Evening Classes) • State-of-the-art lab for Teaching

Contact Tim Edwards at 229.430.3615 or tedwards@albanytech.edu for more information or visit albanytech.edu

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NEW HIRES REQAIL ASHBURY

ReQail will be responsible for assisting state, secondary and postsecondary instructional leadership in the planning and development of career programs of study, with the dual enrollment opportunities to high school students in the service delivery areas that lead to either an industry recognized credential, postsecondary certificate of credit, diploma or associate degree. She also provides Dual Enrollment Program admissions information to high school, home school, and private school students and their parents, ensuring that the parents have adequate information.

She is responsible for coordinating recruitment and enrollment activities for future students and the community, assisting with information dissemination, parent/student/community outreach, recruitment, advisement, admissions, and course registration. She will also monitor the academic progress of Dual Enrolled students and communicate information

KIMBERLY AUMSBAUGH

Kimberly Aumsbaugh accepted the position of High School Coordinator in the department of Student Affairs effective May 1, 2019. Kimberly is responsible for assisting the high school students participating in the Dual Enrollment program. She will recruit, enroll, and monitor progress of the students while they are in the program.

Kimberly graduated from Georgia Southwestern State University with a B.S. in Education.

Prior to accepting this position, she served as a fifth grade teacher at Lake

Park Elementary. She has also served as a Family and Consumer Science teacher at Lee County High School.

MARCHELLE BENTLEY

Marchelle Bentley accepted the position of Purchasing Coordinator in the Business Office/Administrative Services, effective May 1, 2019. Marchelle is responsible for coordinating the purchase of equipment and services and ensures compliance with State of Georgia Purchasing Guidelines. She prepares purchase orders and receives and reviews purchase requisitions from various departments, prepares necessary paperwork for all purchases, performs or coordinates the maintenance of files and record keeping systems. Marchelle graduated from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural CollegeAssociates of Science, Accounting, Albany State University-Bachelor of Science, Business Management, and from Albany State University with a Masters degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management & Health Administration Policy. Marchelle is a recipient of Masters of Public Administration Program Academic Achievement Award.

BIANCA KIERCE

Dr. Bianca Kierce accepted the position of Full Time Instructor in the Associates of Science in Nursing Program, effective July 1, 2019. Dr. Kierce, will be responsible for both clinical and didactic instruction, with expertise in a multitude of nursing subspecialties. She graduated from University of Central Florida with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 2008. She went on to obtain a dual Master’s of Science in Nursing with national certifications as an

Adult/Gerontology and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner in 2014. Later obtaining a Post-Master’s certificate as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015. She completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practitioner with an additional Teaching Certification in 2018.

Prior to accepting this position, she held adjunct faculty position at Albany State University in the BSN and MSN-FNP program. Clinically as a nurse practitioner she was worked in Cardiology, Nephrology, and General Surgery. She currently maintains clinical practice as a Hospitalist at Crisp Regional Hospital.

TONYA L. THOMAS

Tonya L. Thomas accepted the position of Titan Café Manager in Student Affairs, effective May 1, 2019.

Tonya is responsible for recruiting and training employees, work study students and interns, assigning tasks, enforcing cleaning & safety standards, maintaining inventory and ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction. Prior to accepting this position, Tonya served as Co-Owner/Manager of The Lunch Room and an In Home Expert with AT&T. to secondary education officials, assist in the coordination and/or administration of the Accuplacer college entrance exam, and collect and analyze Dual Enrolled student participant data. She will assist in attaining books for dual-enrolled students, to include coordinating book orders with campus bookstore and ensuring student accounts remain accurate. She will serve as the liaison with educational, industrial, and community partners to encourage cooperation and partnerships for dual enrollment within the service delivery area.

ReQail graduated from Columbus State University with a bachelors degree in Management.

PROMOTIONS MATTHEW BEARD

Matthew Beard was promoted Chair of the Culinary Arts program. Beard received a bachelors degree from Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina in 2003. His experience includes working at numerous bed and breakfasts and country clubs/golf courses including The Tarrer Inn in Colquitt, Georgia, Home of the Swamp Gravy Dish and Storytelling Play, River Pointe Golf Club and Doublegate Country Club. Additionally, Beard was former owner/chef/manager of My Downtown Bistro in Albany, Georgia.

For the past eight years, Beard has served as a Culinary Arts instructor at Albany Technical College.

KEISHA GEORGE

Keisha George accepted the position of Engineering Prep Academy Academic Coordinator in the Academic Affairs, effective May 1, 2019.

Keisha is responsible for coordinating activities with middle and high school personnel, industry representatives, community partners, and internal departments to include all ATC engineering technology academic programs, Student Services, and Institutional Effectiveness.

Keisha graduated from both Albany State University and Albany Technical College with a Associate degree in Liberal Arts and Administrative Office Technology.

Prior to accepting this position, she served as an Administrative Assistant with Albany Technical College and as a Testing Assistant with Albany Technical College as well.

BEVERLY GRIMSLEY

Beverly Grimsley accepted the full-time position of Administrative Assistant for in the Associate of Nursing and Practical Nursing, effective July 1, 2019. Beverly is responsible for intake of application, assisting students and visitors with questions regarding the ASN and LPN programs. Creating spreadsheets/ reports to enhance tracking abilities of data required for ACEN. Day to day secretarial duties as required and/ or requested and assists the Dean of Healthcare division’s administrative assistant. Beverly graduated from Albany Technical College with an associate degree in Business Administration. Prior to accepting this position, Beverly served as an Admission’s Assistant with Albany Technical College and Center Director with Phillips, CDC. Additionally, Beverly has been an Assistant Pastor for 20 years of the Temple of Refuge, EPC. She is an Advisor and member of the non-profit organization Cutting Edge Epic Center International, Inc. She has been a facilitator at various conferences for women (young and not so young) throughout the country over the past 15 years.

(TCSG) Office for Adult Education Federal National Reporting System goals and other specific directed activity. Dwana graduated from Albany State University with a bachelors degree in Computer Science w/Emphasis in Business. Prior to accepting this position, Dwana served as Transition Specialist with Albany Technical College Adult Education and Enrollment Services Counselor at Albany State University. She is actively involved in the community and is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

TERESA MCDONALD

Teresa McDonald accepted the position of Administrative Assistant to Dean of Academic Affairs in the Academic Affairs, effective July 2, 2019.

Teresa graduated from Albany Technical College with an associate degree in Business Logistics Management. Prior to accepting this position, Teresa served Registrar Assistant in her previous position.

DWANA TRIMBLE

Dwana Trimble accepted the position of Adult Education Coordinator in the Adult Education, effective July 1, 2019.

She is responsible for overseeing the administration of assessment and student placement tests of Adult Education students, maintains the maintenance of student records, plans and organizes the service delivery area work to meet the Technical College System of Georgia

Consider your next career in education. We are committed to creating a positive supportive and diverse work environment in which faculty and staff can excel, and hope you will consider joining us as we strive to become a renowned first choice for technical education. albanytech.edu

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ALBANY

T R A N S P O RTAT I O N

ACADEMY

at ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

SATURDAY 2019

TOUR DATES

Each month, faculty and staff will be conducting campus tours. If you or someone you know are interested in seeing what is behind “these walls,” then make plans to attend one of the dates below.

August 31 September 14 October 19 November 16 December 7 Tours will be held at 9am

®

For more information:

229.430.3500

albanytech.edu

kbell@albanytech.edu

1704 S. Slappey Blvd.

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FEATURE

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Albany Tech will be the first TCSG institution to switch over to this approach

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This new approach creates six entry points during an academic year when students can start classes, rather than the three currently available in the traditional semester format. The shortened format will allow students to take classes and earn credits more frequently, while giving them fewer classes to focus on per seven-week period. Albany Technical College is making a bold move to ensure success for its students. Starting in the fall of 2019, the current semester system will be modified to two seven-week academic terms that have been labeled “Success Terms” or “7 + 7 Semesters.”

Albany Tech will be the first TCSG institution to switch over to this approach, which creates six times during an academic year when students can start classes, rather than the three entry points available in a traditional semester format.

The shortened format will allow our students to take classes and earn credits more frequently while giving them fewer classes to focus on per seven-week period.

Students will never be too far away from the next set of starting classes.

Research shows that the new format can improve student performance with fewer subjects to focus on per seven-

week period; increase the number of Fall 2019 credit hours a student can earn per time period; and provide employers with employees more frequently each year.

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If the number of courses that a full-time student is taking is reduced at any given time, and there is an increase the number of block terms per year, then this creates a system where student success is likely, and the College will have more students taking full-time credits each semester.

This will generate a win-win environment for students, the College, and employers in the community.

In the conventional semester system, a non-traditional student might be managing multiple jobs, family responsibilities, and taking four or even five classes but with the new system, the course load will be lowered to two classes, making life more manageable.

SUCCESS TERMS & FINANCIAL AID When your 2nd term begins you can only be paid for the number of credit hours for which you haven’twithdrawn.

Example: you originally were scheduled to attend 2 classes in each term (Four 3 hour classes= 12 credit hours). You withdrew from one class leaving you with 1 class you completed in the first part ofthe semester and 2 classes for the 2nd part of the semester. You will only be eligible for 9 credit hours (75%) of your Pell grant award.

Withdrawal from classes will have a greater impact on your financial aid if it doesn’t occur before the first term ends.

Financial Aid pays for courses according to the number

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Your Pell will also be split into multiple disbursements during the semester

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of days you are scheduled to attend. Since each term contains approximately 50 days a withdrawal during the first week of your second term results in your earning 55% of your Pell vs. 100% if you dropped your C-term classes before the term began.

Contact the Registrar to drop any C-term class before you complete your B-term course. If not, you could owe back unearned financial aid due to a Return to Title IV calculation even if you pass your B-term course(s). Any part of the term for which you register because a part of your financial aid payment period. Failure to begin these classes means you didn’t meet your scheduled obligation.

PHARMACY PROGRAM

RANKS TOP IN THE NATION From Pharmacy Technician Guide, “Albany Technical College ranks among the Top 20 Pharmacy Technician programs in the nation for 2019-20. The college also ranks #4 in Georgia for its Pharmacy Technician Training.”

Source: www.pharmacytechnicianguide.com Interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician?

Visit www.albanytech.edu/pharmacy

If you decide to withdraw during B-term and you have C-term classes scheduled you will be considered withdrawn from the entire 14 week semester. If you plan to complete your C-term class, you must provide notice to the registrar before withdrawing from your B-term class(es).

You will not be considered a withdrawal as long as you withdraw from all future courses on the same day that you complete a part of term.

Financial Aid pays based on attending hours – if you aren’t yet attending the class your Pell and/or student loans won’t disburse until you actually attend the class. If you have 3 hours in B-term and 3 hours in C-term your student loan won’t pay until after the C-term class begins. Your Pell will also be split into multiple disbursements during the semester.

Student budgets are based on the number of months in your enrollment period. If your classes a rescheduled to run from August to December then your cost of attendance will be larger than that of a student whose classes are scheduled to run from October to December.

This budget directly impacts the amount of student loans you can receive or hours you can work under the work study program.

Congratulations to Ciara Childs, Spring 2019 Pharmacy Technology program graduate! Childs passed the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam (PTCBE) and was accepted into Georgia Southern University.

Congratulations to Lisa Stephens, Radiologic Technology Chair/Instructor, who was recently appointed to Member at Large of the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists, Inc., an affiliate of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Their mission is to advance and elevate the medical imaging and radiation therapy profession and to enhance the quality and safety of patient care.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

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Dr. Kim Lee Selected

as One of Only 40 Nationwide for

Aspen Presidential Fellowship Albany Technical College has a strong history of talent development under the leadership of President Anthony O. Parker. One example of talent acquisition, retention and development for Albany Tech is Dr. Kim Lee, who serves as the Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness. In addition to responsibility for college and academic program accreditation, she leads ATC in strategic planning, capital outlay requests and data analytics.

Recognized for her contributions to higher education, Dr. Lee was one of only two Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) employees to be selected as an Aspen Presidential Fellowship recipient in the 5 year history of the program. She was selected through a rigorous process that considered her abilities to take strategic risks, lead strong teams and cultivate partnerships, and focus on results-oriented improvements in student success. The Aspen Presidential Fellowship is proving beneficial for both Dr. Lee and for Albany Technical College.

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COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS

NETWORKING

TRENDS IN COMPUTER NETWORKING CAREERS According to 2014 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 366,400 people made their living as computer networking specialists or systems administrators in 2012. That number is expected to grow faster than the national average between 2012 and 2022 because more companies are investing more heavily in computer networks, which need specialists to maintain them.

CAREER PATHS IN COMPUTER NETWORKING Network Administrators Network administrators are responsible for keeping a network up and running--like an auto mechanic for the network. They create user accounts and manage the folders and other resources on computers in the network. They correct problems with network communications, resource access, printers, and the computers. They also must address issues about system expansion. Depending on the organization’s size, number of locations and users, geographic reach, and purpose, a network administrator’s job can include a wide variety of responsibilities.

Here are some basic tasks for which a network administrator may be responsible: • Setting up and configuring network hardware and software • Installing and configuring network media and connections • Connecting user nodes and peripherals of all kinds to the network • Adding users to and removing users from the network • Managing user accounts, such as passwords, storage space, and file-access privileges • Creating and maintaining a system for backing up data and program files • Ensuring the security of the network • Managing the organization’s e-mail system • Managing users’ ability to access the Internet via the network • Training users to utilize the network’s resources Network Engineer A network engineer designs and manages the groups of computers networked together. The network engineer performs tasks such as installing and configuring communication hardware, setting up of the network communication link, installing and configuring application software, troubleshooting operations to ensure continuous network availability, and offering technical support and assistance.

Network Analyst Network analysts support the computer network and the overall computer infrastructure. Job duties might involve installing network software and training the user in new applications. The analyst might be responsible for coordinating system enhancements between the software and hardware, documenting procedures, and producing policies and procedures.

Information Systems Administrator Information systems administrators assist with the design, delivery, and maintenance of an information technology infrastructure within the organization. The person assists in strategic planning and in evaluating and recommending services, products, and projects. The job involves assisting in the planning, development, implementation, and maintenance of the information platform. The information platform might include Web servers and services, technological applications, and interactive applications. Administrators also supply instruction, user aids, and assistance in problem solving for library IT applications.

Network Technician The network technician generally services network computers and troubleshoots for potential problems. Network technicians often work the help-desk services to repair or upgrade computers. Technicians need to be familiar with the different operating systems such as Microsoft, Novell, and Unix, as well as the basics of computer networking.

Companies of all sizes have networks and need knowledgeable individuals to manage those networks, but those companies that cannot afford, or do not require a full-time administrator, might contract with a computer company that offers administrative services. Computer networking presents an outstanding opportunity for the skilled professional or entrepreneur to work with a variety of companies to set up or possibly maintain a network.

Computer Networking Instructor The increasing use of computer networks has created a need for more instructors who have a solid networking background and can teach those skills to students. Unlike in some other academic fields, one need not have a doctoral degree in computer networking to be a computer networking instructor. Although community colleges and four-year schools might prefer instructors to have a master’s degree, for-profit and certification schools usually only require substantial experience in the profession. It is also a way to remain a working professional while supplementing an income and contributing to the growth of the profession.

More Computer Networking Career Other computer-related specialties involving networking skills are: • Computer Programmer • Computer Engineer • Database Administrator • Web Master • Computer-Operations Researcher • Computer Repair Specialist • Systems Analyst

Contact Cassandra Henderson at 229.430.3617 or chenderson@albanytech.edu for more information or visit albanytech.edu

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia 1704 South Slappey Boulevard Albany, Georgia 31701

Dougherty County Campus: 229.430.3500 | Randolph County Learning Center: 229.732.5280 albanytech.edu As set forth in its student catalog, Albany Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). The following person(s) has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator, Kathy Skates, Vice President of Administrative Services, Albany Technical College, 1704 S. Slappey Blvd., Albany, GA 31701. Phone 229.430.3524 and Section 504 Coordinator, Regina Watts, Special Needs Coordinator, Albany Technical College, 1704 S. Slappey Blvd., Albany, GA 31701, 229.430.2854 or rwatts@albanytech.edu.

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