Career Source Winter 2016 by Jackson College

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

What do you want to be?

Jackson College has what you are looking for! Jackson College is pleased to offer THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENERGY SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT. TRANSFER DEGREES: Associate of Arts Associate of Science Associate of General Studies OCCUPATIONAL DEGREE: Associate of Applied Science PROGRAMS OF STUDY: 3D Design and Animation Accounting Administrative Assistant Advanced Manufacturing: CNC/Machining Industrial Systems Manufacturing Design Welding Allied Health General Studies Automotive Collision Repair Automotive Service Technology Aviation Flight Technology Business Administration Cardiac Sonography Computer Programming Specialist Computer Service Technician (A+/Network+) Computer Support Specialist Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management Cyber Security Digital Photography EKG Technician Electrician Electronic Health Records (EHR) Electronic Technology/ELT Electronic Technology/Microcomputer Emergency Medical Technology

Energy Systems Technology Engineering, Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship Environmental Science Executive Assistant Financial Services General Sonography Graphic Design Graphic Design-Print Production Health Administration/ Insurance Specialist Law Enforcement Management Marketing Medical Assistant Medical Insurance Coder/Biller Medical Office Support Microsoft® Networking Microsoft® Office® Specialist Networking Specialist Nursing Nursing-LPN to ADN Occupational Studies Pharmacy Technician Phlebotomy Technician Pre-Professional Science Practical Nursing Radiography Respiratory Care Sales Sports Management Studio Art Vascular Sonography Video Production Web Technology: eCommerce Consultant eCommerce Designer eCommerce Entrepreneur eCommerce Manager eCommerce Specialist

Go online to www.jccmi.edu/Academics

Winter 2015 • Career Source

JACKSON COLLEGE

CAREER

Questions about Jackson College programs and services described in this publication should be directed to Student Services at 517.796.8425. Comments or questions about the publication should be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416.

SOURCE Winter 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 2 Issue 2

Sports Management degree a game changer for careers

Publisher: Cynthia S. Allen Editor: Dotty Karkheck

Corrections Core offers accelerated options

Writer: Marilynn Fryer Kathryn Phelan

Automotive study revs up opportunity

Stand out in job interview

Add up possibilities with accounting

Financial aid available for college costs

Cyber security offers cutting edge careers

College creates new pathways to success

Dual enrollment offers jump start for high schoolers

Jackson College navigators focused on student success

Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-demand jobs

Corporate and Continuing Education

Graphic Designer: Abbie Stein Photography: JC BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Samuel R. Barnes Chairman

John M. Crist Vice Chairman

Sheila A. Patterson Secretary

Donna L. Lake Treasurer

Matthew R. Heins Trustee

Dr. Edward A. Mathein Trustee

Philip E. Hoffman Trustee

Dr. Daniel J. Phelan President

On the cover: Kelli Hoover, Director of Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries; City of Jackson Rick Wilson, Chief Executive Officer, Jackson YMCA

2111 Emmons Road Jackson, MI 49201 www.jccmi.edu

It’s game on

for sports management degree at JC! By Marilynn Fryer

Sports enthusiasts give a cheer: Jackson College will now offer an associate degree option in sports management! “With growing interest by students, degrees available at universities, and opportunities in the job market, Jackson College is offering this new degree to help students become qualified with entry-level skills in sports management. Additionally, we are paving the path to transfer to four-year institutions for bachelor’s degrees,” said Assistant Professor Angel Fonseca, lead faculty for the Sports Management Associate in Applied Science degree.

Angel Fonseca

America today has seen a surge in interest in sports at all levels, from pee wee soccer to the professional leagues. Travel teams, recreational departments, non-profit organizations and more have seen an increase in demand for proper leadership and management. Individuals with knowledge of sports and coaching functions, as well as business acumen necessary for program and facilities management, are in demand. “When sports came back to Jackson College in 2006, the conversation began about sports management,” said Jeremy Frew, dean of occupational education. “This combines a good foundation in business with sports management. There has been a lot of interest in this area.”

Jeremy Frew

Students will gain a background in business administration along with courses specifically designed for sports management majors. They will focus on the business aspects of sports and study the worlds of recreation, school, college, community and professional sports today.

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“There are many opportunities for students to be involved in the sports field as a career, even if they aren’t a proathlete.” - Angel Fonseca “When you go into the field, it can offer a lot of things,” said Kelli Hoover, director of parks, recreation and cemeteries for Jackson. Hoover has a degree in community recreation from Central Michigan University, and has helped put curriculum for similar sports management degrees at various colleges. “From special events to athletics to enrichment, how Kelli Hoover to market and budget, grant writing experience, it’s a wonderful career to have.” Sports management is a vast field, and those in it will have a variety of opportunities and functions – such as budgeting, marketing, planning, and organizing sport events, teams, programs, or facilities management. Entry-level opportunities will likely afford students a chance to work one’s way up the ladder. “I would say the most important traits to have are communication skills, and the ability to problem Rick Wilson solve,” said Rick Wilson, chief executive officer of the Jackson YMCA. “We do look for someone with this type of degree for our youth sports programs, as well as the business degree, too.”

Opportunities may include: 1. Organizing and promoting sporting events. 2. Working with youth sports through organizations such as a local recreation department or YMCA. 3. Managing facilities and sport events attendance. 4. Broadcasting and sports writing. 5. Sports marketing, branding and ticket sales. 6. Recruiting athletes, participants and sponsors.

This is a new degree program for Jackson College, and interested students will start immediately learning about the field in their first semester with SMT 100 Introduction to Sports Management. For complete course information, go to www.jccmi.edu/academics/sportsmanagement.

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Find a career in corrections with Jackson College

accelerated offerings By Marilynn Fryer

Hundreds of corrections careers are available with the Michigan Department of Corrections, and Jackson College can help students earn the required courses to become a corrections officer! To help students meet the minimum 15 college credit hours of required course work to become a corrections officer, Jackson College will offer a Corrections Core class, CRJ 299, this winter at W.J. Maher Campus. This will be an accelerated six-week program in which students will attend class from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday, from Jan. 18 through Feb. 26, 2016. During that time, students will complete 15 credit hours – five classes – needed for future corrections officers. Students who qualify may receive financial aid or use veterans’ benefits. Students can earn a skill set credential from JC, and continue their studies toward a certificate or associate degree. Cost of the program will be equivalent to 15 contact hours tuition. Mary Jo Kennedy

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Corrections officers oversee and participate in the custody, security and treatment of prisoners in correctional facilities, while some may also work for local municipalities in jails. With numerous retirements, there is a large demand for corrections officers, both men and women, in facilities throughout the state. Laquavis Swift completed the program over the summer, fulfilling a dream. “I wanted to be a police officer since I was a young Laquavis Swift kid,” Swift said. “I thought watching over people in corrections would be a good job for me.” Swift, 41, had worked security for several years and had never been to college when he heard about Jackson’s program. He spoke with an advisor and enrolled, and while fitting that much work into a short time was a challenge, he finished the program with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. Now he is awaiting an interview with the Michigan Department of Corrections to enroll in a Corrections Academy and continuing college classes.

“Focus on the time, being there every day so you can pass the class. It’s very interesting, not boring at all, and the professor was wonderful. They really help you learn,” - Laquavis Swift

For more information about the Corrections Core program at Jackson College, contact Mary Jo Kennedy, director of criminal justice programs, 517.990.1346 or KennedyMaryJo@jccmi.edu.

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

options for automotive careers

Consider your

By Kathryn Phelan

Get in the driver’s seat for a career in automotive technology with Jackson College. Today’s automotive field offers ample job opportunities and high earning potential. Jackson College’s automotive program prides itself on preparing students for these opportunities in an industry that is constantly changing. “Technology is already available for cars to drive themselves,” says Chris Kaser, assistant professor of automotive technology at Jackson College, who began his work with automobiles in 1975. “The technology is incredible,” he said, citing computer-controlled braking systems, interaction with smart phones, and the removal of mechanical linkage, such as steering wheels. Although self-driving cars have not emerged on the market, Jackson College has an eye on the future. The College provides cars, parts and tools for students to enhance their practical skills. Classes are divided between lectures and hands-on, task-based practice. Aaron Hill, an automotive

Winter 2016 • Career Source

student in his final semester, said the program is perfect for students who are serious about increasing their knowledge. “You realize how much you don’t know,” Hill said. His classmates, Dwight Blucher and Logan Foster, agree: “You’re taught to do things the right way here,” Foster said. “We can learn at a slower pace than in a shop.” The College offers an associate degree and certificate programs, as well as skill sets and concentrations in automotive technology. Kaser said he receives calls from auto shops looking for students to work – more calls than he has students available. Demand for automotive technicians and mechanics is expected to grow 9 percent in the coming years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “People think it’s a grubby job where you can’t make money,” he said. “That’s not the case.” Kaser estimates that students can earn $8-15 per hour in a garage, and more than $100,000 in other careers that can result from a degree in this field. “It’s a fun job,” he said. “And there is money to be made.” Automotive students have the option of making Chris Kaser repairs on their own cars, which can save them money. Although students are required to do some of their work on collegeprovided materials, they are also able to fulfill some of their practical requirements by working on their own vehicles, with Kaser’s ASEcertified supervision. Blucher, Hill and Foster have all taken advantage of the opportunity, which can offset the cost of the course. After completing the program, students have no shortage of job possibilities. Some recent Jackson College graduates work in dealerships and garages, as service technicians, mechanics, engineers, designers, or in management. Hill hopes to pursue a bachelor’s degree upon graduation at Jackson College, and Blucher and Foster plan to start in local shops and work their way up. “[The job] can be anything for students,” Kaser said. “That’s the cool thing.” But the camaraderie, more than anything, is what makes the students stick with it: “We’ve become one big family,” said Foster. The three students agreed that the environment is their favorite part about the program. Kaser agrees with his students: working on cars is a satisfying endeavor. “It’s a big puzzle,” he said. “You spread everything all over and you put it back together and it works. It’s a good feeling.”

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Stand out from the crowd with a few simple interview tips By Marilynn Fryer

In a competitive job market, job seekers must put their best foot forward! Here are tips to help in the job interview process.

Dress the part A prospective employer will start making an initial judgment in the first seconds of meeting the candidate, so always dress professionally. A little homework into the workplace environment can help job seekers know what attire is expected for the prospective job. “Sometimes I feel like I’m repeating myself but it seems we continue to see it, people not dressed appropriately,” said Teri Ogg, area manager for Manpower, Jackson and Lenawee counties. A good basic starting point for men and women are dress slacks and dress shirts, and no tops that are too low-cut or revealing, and no T-shirts with writing. “My advice to most people: if you wouldn’t show up in front of your mother or grandmother looking like that, don’t show up to a job interview in it.” A good rule of thumb -- it is better to be overdressed than too casual. A business suit or tie may not be necessary with every job, but don’t appear unkempt. Professional appearance goes beyond one’s clothes. Multiple body piercings and tattoos can still be a detractor in an interview. Tone down and cover up for a first impression, keeping the focus on one’s abilities. Do not go overboard with perfume and cologne.

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Do your homework When called in for an interview, it is important to know something about the company or business. What do they make or do? Who are their customers? What areas do they serve? “It’s so easy to get information now, even on your phone,” Ogg said. “A quick Google search can get you everything you need. Go in prepared to ask questions, and be prepared to know something about the business if they ask.”

Highlight yourself and stay positive In a job interview, the applicant is telling the employer what they can do for them, what skills and abilities they offer. Stay away from negative talk; answer questions simply and directly, and don’t share too much. “Jackson may not be what many think of as a small town, but there are a lot of people who know other people or are related to other people. If someone comes in and talks about what a horrible last boss they had, that is a big no-no. You don’t know that I’m not related to that person,” Ogg said. Job openings are growing in today’s marketplace, and quality employees are sought after by employers. “Many employers are having a hard time finding what they consider to be good employees. You may not have the specific skill set the employer looking for, if they have chosen to interview you, there is a reason for that,” Ogg said. “You will have to sell your ability to learn new things, and sell your motivation and interest. That will go a long way in getting you in the door.”

Say thank you Candidates should also thank the interviewer when finished, and if the job interests them, be sure to let the employer know. Be courteous and polite and thank the interviewer afterward for the opportunity. Always send a thank you note to all interviewers.

Healthy bottom line:

Accounting offers opportunity at all levels By Kathryn Phelan

Making accounting accessible for students is the bottom line for Professor Suzanne Kiess. Nationally, many students who start out studying accounting switch to another subject partway through their studies. Through her teaching, Kiess aims to show students that accounting can be approachable. “It’s team-based, dynamic, and full of problem-solving,” she said. With a strong demand for entry-level accounting positions, and because many employers also look for bachelor’s degrees, Kiess focuses her attention on helping students go as far as they want to go. “My goal is for my students to consider a bachelor’s degree, to maximize their career potential,” she said. Jessica Clemons, who graduated from Jackson College in fall 2014, has been working in private accounting firms for 18 years and is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Siena Heights University. “Advancement in the field is nearly impossible without a degree,” she said.

Suzanne Kiess

Still, Kiess believes the skills gained from taking even a small number of accounting classes can benefit students and make them more marketable. Ken Londos, for example, used his accounting credits from Jackson College to enter the business college at Michigan State University, where he is now a junior. “The accounting classes I took at

Winter 2016 • Career Source

Jackson College ended up being very helpful to me,” he said. “I still use the material I learned there today.” Kiess aims to keep her classroom dynamic. She uses games in her classes, taken from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) website. She invites students to a Michigan Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA) event in Livonia every May, where they are encouraged to think and talk about their futures. Kiess also helps to organize the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which allows Jackson College students to prepare taxes for targeted or elderly groups, an opportunity that Clemons enjoyed as a student. “It was one of the most beneficial and rewarding experiences of my college career,” she said. More than anything, Kiess emphasizes relationship-based teaching, and values the high-quality faculty in the accounting department. “Our best strategy is to have really good people in the classroom,” she said. In the future, Kiess expects changes in the global accounting environment to impact students. Although accounting is not reported the same way around the world, Kiess estimates that an international financial reporting model is on the horizon. This is one reason why she aims to make accounting more approachable. “The way we’re applying accounting is always changing because business is always changing,” she said. “It’s important to be ready.”

Accounting Careers Employment is expected to grow 13 percent through 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Positions & Salary opportunities Certificate: • Office and/or accounting staff, $15,000-$35,000 Associate Degree: • Accounting Clerk $31,750-$41,500 • Accounts Receivable/ Accounts Payable $31,750 - $41,000 • Payroll Clerk $31,750-$40,750 Bachelor’s Degree: • Payroll accounting $45,750-$56,500 • Payroll Supervisor $48,500-$72,000

Many types of jobs are available to accounting students when they graduate. Students may work as office assistants, office managers, accounts receivable positions, staff accountants or certified public accountants (CPAs). Accounting students are also in a good position to take strategic positions within companies, because their knowledge helps them understand the inner workings of business. “You use accounting every day,” Kiess said. “You just might not realize it.”

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Paying the bills

Financial aid can help with college costs! Interested in going to college but not sure how to pay for it? Financial assistance is available for those who qualify! Financial aid is the common term for money to help with college expenses. The U.S. Department of Education should be the first source to figure financial aid. Aid is also available from scholarships and grants from state governments, schools, employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofits, religious groups and professional organizations. Most students receive some kind of financial aid to help pay for their college education. Financial assistance can be available in: • Grants – money that doesn’t have to be paid back • Scholarships – money that doesn’t have to be paid back • Work-study – money your earn while working • Loans – money you borrow that is paid back with interest Aid may be used to cover school expenses, including tuition and fees, books and supplies, and transportation. The amount received is based on a person’s need, as determined by federal guidelines. Both the College and the Jackson College Foundation provide scholarship funds to qualifying students.

Winter 2016 • Career Source

Financial Aid... How do I get

started?

To apply, complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. With limited financial aid available, the sooner one completes the form, the better. After applying, you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) via e-mail. Check the SAR over carefully and ensure that everything is accurate. The Financial Aid Office at Jackson College will contact you via your student e-mail account once they have received your FAFSA information. Please be sure to respond quickly to any requests for additional information so that your financial aid package can be determined.

Currently 87.6 percent of Jackson College students receive some form of financial aid. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth itâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; apply! If you have questions, call any Jackson College location, or stop by the Student Services Center on Central Campus, currently located on the first floor of Potter Center.

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Cyber security concerns unlock potential careers By Marilynn Fryer

Staying ahead of today’s continuing computer security threats has spawned a growing career field. Large computer networks often fall victim to security breaches that put important information at risk. A degree in cyber security prepares students to become security analysts, who work to ensure that an organization’s computer networks, computer systems and digital information are safe. • Security analysts plan, monitor and test computer systems and implement appropriate security controls. They may install and use software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information. • Analysts may also perform penetration testing, using simulation of attacks to look for vulnerabilities in an organization’s computer Larry Choate system before they may be exploited by hackers. “This is closely related to the computer networking degree, but adding important studies in cyber security,” said Assistant Professor Larry Choate, Computer Information Services. Students may specialize in Microsoft or CISCO networks.

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts jobs for security analysts will increase about 37 percent through 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Significant growth is predicted in both the federal government and in the health care fields. Jackson College graduate Samuel Bradstreet earned an associate in computer networking and cyber security, and is continuing his studies at Siena Heights University while completing an internship at Consumers Samual Bradstreet Energy in cyber security operations. “You need to be the kind of person who likes to tear something apart to see how it works. A good mathematical background is helpful but not essential; if you’re someone who likes getting hands-on, that’s very good,” he said. “Jackson College taught me everything I would expect a college program to prepare me for in cyber security. It’s a very up-andcoming field. Larry (Choate) has done a fantastic job of hitting the fundamentals and making sure you know how to teach yourself the new technology that rolls out.” Jackson College students have participated for several years with the Michigan Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition. Teams simulate an information technology (IT) company testing the security of an existing IT infrastructure, giving students experience in a competitive atmosphere with other colleges and universities.

A few key traits will help those interested in cyber security careers: •

Passion for the work –Analysts must continually update themselves with the latest systems and developments.

•

Ingenuity – Need to constantly be on the lookout for new weaknesses in a system, because that is what hackers are constantly doing, looking for new ways “in.”

•

Ability to recognize patterns – Cyber security analysts will need to recognize a baseline pattern for normal operations before they recognize any abnormalities.

•

Good analytical skills, attention to detail.

“I don’t think I’ve ever learned so much in a short period of time as I did in those competitions,” Bradstreet said. Those going into the field can expect earnings starting at in the $47,000 per year range in Michigan, and earnings will increase with education and/or experience. Students may transfer on to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree. Those in the field may have the opportunity to work remotely or from home.

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

College creating new

pathways to success Jackson College faculty, administration and staff are doing their homework to make the road to a college degree smoother for students with a new initiative known as guided pathways. The route to a college degree can feel like a confusing maze of prerequisites, general education requirements, and other elective and required courses. Guided pathways will make navigating through college much easier. “Go to any college’s web site and imagine having to pick a major and select courses toward a degree. Your head will spin!” said Professor Ted Miller. “The work our faculty has done to group our programs into six broad pathways and design clear maps toward completion will make students’ college journey far less daunting.” Ted Miller

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Each pathway is a broad content area that students will choose as they begin college, a kind of “meta-major.” They are: • Business & Computer Technology

• Liberal Arts

• Health Science

• Science, Engineering & Math

• Human Services

• Skilled Trades & Agriculture

Students will be able to plan their schedule for their entire program, with milestones marked along the way to support their progress. Faculty members have mapped all programs from start to finish providing students a clear, predictable schedule. “Students who decide to begin their studies at Jackson College in 2016 will get lots of support in making important life decisions,” Miller said. “First of all, rather than having to decide right away on a career or major, they’ll be invited to choose from six broad career pathways, which will be explained during their orientation.“ In a new seminar class, students will complete selfassessments to identify their strengths, passions and values, and consider questions such as, “What purposes do I want to fulfill?” and “In which career fields can I imagine myself thriving?” Once they have identified a career pathway, students will do in-depth research into careers and programs of study within that pathway. If a student completes the seminar course and still Charlotte Finnegan can’t decide on a program, then exploratory plans are available within each pathway, and these will move the student toward a credential while they are still exploring options. As they progress, student success navigators will work with students to help them stay on track. College officials hope that students will feel more supported and confident as they set their educational goals, and be more successful in achieving their goals. “Colleges and universities using guided pathways show increased completion rates,” said Charlotte Finnegan, director of occupational pathways. “We are one of 12 Michigan community colleges working together under the guidance of national experts who have studied how guided pathways helped students in several states including Florida, New York, Georgia and Arizona.”

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Get an early start with

dual enrollment

Dual enrollment means students may be enrolled in both high school and college, according to Michigan law. They may take courses their freshman, sophomore, junior or senior years, accumulating credits for their college program and perhaps taking classes unavailable at their high school. Want to learn more about dual enrollment? Read on!

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Who is eligible? Students in grades 9 through 12 are eligible. Academic readiness may be determined by student performance on any of the following assessment tests: Explore, PLAN, ACT, COMPASS, MME, PSAT, SAT, or Accuplacer, or by conversation with dual enrollment coordinator/high school counselors.

Who pays for these courses? The law directs local school districts to assist students in paying tuition and fees for courses at Michigan colleges and universities. If you are enrolled in a state-approved nonpublic school, the state of Michigan pays for the coursework, and JC bills the Department of Treasury directly.

Who would benefit? Dual enrollment programs benefit collegebound, motivated students. Any student with the demonstrated academic readiness and motivation may enroll. Students who participate in dual enrollment are better equipped to succeed in college by having a realistic idea of what college requires.

What courses can I take? Eligible courses include: • Any JC course that is not offered by the school district or nonpublic school; • Any course that is offered by the school district or nonpublic school, but is not accessible due to scheduling conflicts beyond the student’s control; • A course that is offered by postsecondary Career & Technical Education program that is not offered through the school district, intermediate school district, area vocational-technical education program or state approved nonpublic school in which an eligible student is enrolled.

With dual enrollment, motivated students can earn college credits while in high school, for free! Zack Laird, now a senior at Northwest High School, began dual enrolling in college courses before his junior year. He’s taken enough college courses that when he arrives at Ferris State University next Zack Laird fall, he will start out as a sophomore! He looked forward to the benefits of earning college credits while still in high school, giving him a jump start and also offering some insight into how college works. While it is a lot of work, Laird said it is not too hard if you stay on top of things. “If you are determined and dedicated, it’s manageable,” Laird said. “Don’t let it eclipse your high school work, that’s still really important. Do make them balance.”

Questions? Contact... Your school counselor or principal, or call Jackson College. In Jackson County, 517.796.8425 for Central Campus, 517.768.7097 for W.J. Maher Campus. In Hillsdale County, 517.437.3343. In Lenawee County, 517.265.5515. Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

Navigating a path

to success for students In efforts to boost student success, more Student Services staff members are being hired to come alongside students on their educational path. These will be called student success navigators. Advising processes are being written and revised to ensure that students have no less than three contacts each semester from their navigator, helping guide and track milestones such as registration dates, financial

Winter 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Career Source

aid and payment deadlines, progress reports, offer academic advising, success coaching and more. Navigators will be cross trained to serve as a one-stop resource for students, or direct them to the right contact person if necessary. Building relationships, however, will be first and Nathan Venske foremost. Academic advisors have traditionally advised large numbers of students, in a transactional rather than personal format.

“We want everyone at this institution to have their name known by someone,” - Nathan Venske, assistant dean of student services. “Our navigators can truly be an advocate for student success and make them feel a part of the Jackson College community.” Some efforts are already being implemented, and the navigator program should fully launch in fall 2016 semester. This increased personal attention and contact with students should help them connect with the College and answer any questions or challenges that arise. The goal is for this to translate to better retention and persistence – students will remain enrolled and complete their goals.

Questions? Visit www.jccmi.edu/careersource

MICHIGAN’S

IN-DEMAND JOBS! Programs that are high-demand, high-wage careers available from Jackson College: Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians – Cardiac sonographers use ultrasound to obtain images of the heart, called an echocardiogram. These images can help a doctor to diagnose any blockages or abnormalities in the heart or in the flow of blood within the arteries around the heart. Complete the Associate in Applied Science in Cardiac Sonography.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers – Sonographers are skilled health care professionals who work in hospitals and medical imaging clinics to take and record ultrasound images of the body’s internal structures, which are then used by physicians to make diagnoses. Complete the Associate in Applied Science in General Sonography.

Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics – Emergency medical personnel provide medical care to patients in times of crisis and emergency. Complete the Associate in Applied Science in Emergency Medical Technology.

Electrical Repair, Powerhouse/Substation/Relay – Inspect, test, repair or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays. Complete the Associate in Applied Science in Energy Systems Technology, also possible Associate in Applied Science as Electrician.

Licensed Practical Nurses – LPNs provide basic medical care to patients, such as checking blood pressure, changing bandages, helping patients bathe or dress and more. Complete Practical Nursing Certificate.

Medical Assistants – Medical assistants are multi-skilled health care practitioners trained to work in the business and clinical parts of a medical office, clinic or hospital. Complete the Certificate or Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assistant.

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Medical Records and Health Information Technician – Organize and manage health information data to ensure quality, accuracy, accessibility and security, using medical code systems to categorize patient data for insurance reimbursement and more. Complete the Medical Insurance Coder/Biller Certificate and/or the Associate in Applied Science in Health Administration/Insurance Specialist.

Radiologic Technologists and Technicians – Radiographers, also referred to radiologic technologists, produce X-rays and use other imaging techniques such as CT and MRI, essential in diagnosing medical problems. Complete an Associate in Applied Science in Radiography.

Respiratory Therapists – respiratory therapists, assist in the care of patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary (relating to the heart and lungs) problems. Complete an Associate in Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy.

Registered Nurses – Nurses work to promote health, prevent disease and help people cope with illness. Registered nurses (RN’s) provide care, treatment, counseling and health education to individuals, families and their communities. Complete the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, or the LPN-ADN Associate in Applied Science.

Telecommunication Equipment Installers and Repairers – Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers set up and maintain devices or equipment that carry communications signals, connect to telephone lines, or access the Internet. Complete the Associate in Applied Science in Electronic Technology/ELT.

Truck Drivers – Learn to drive a commercial, heavy and tractor-trailer truck to transport goods from one location to another. JC offers truck driving training in cooperation with ABC Training and Testing.

Many more job opportunities are available. Speak with an academic advisor to learn more! www.jccmi.edu/CCE/EmploymentServices.htm Sources: Michigan’s Hot 50 In-Demand Jobs, Department of Technology, Management and Budget, and the Career Outlook 2020 Jackson Area, DTMB

Corporate and Continuing Education Jackson College’s Corporate and Continuing Education program can help businesses be successful or individuals explore a new interest. CCE provides workforce development opportunities and community and continuing education.

CCE offers skilled trades courses in: • Advanced Manufacturing (Welding, Blueprint Reading, GD&T, AutoCAD) • Advanced Truck Driver Training

Healthcare training options will include: • Phlebotomy Technician Course • Emergency Medical Technician-Basic

Health and wellness training in: • Certified professional fitness trainer

Continuing and Professional Education courses will be offered in: • • • • •

Teacher State Continuing Education Clock Hours Real Estate Online Human Resources Training Career Training Programs American Heart Association Training

Truck driver training courses are offered for those interested in commercial truck driving. Also, a variety of online education and training is available through ed2go.com. Well-trained workers are more productive and happier workers, so investing in their skills can be a wise choice to grow and sustain a business. Whether you are a business leader seeking educational options for your employees or an individual seeking to improve yourself, CCE can help.

Meeting your training needs To learn more about any of these programs, contact Joyce Dunbar in the Corporate and Continuing Education Office at 517.796.8610, or visit online at www.jccmi.edu/cce.

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MORE EARNING POTENTIAL A college education decreases your chances of becoming unemployed while it increases your earning potential. Think of it as an investment in yourself that yields significant future earnings.

Jackson College by the

Prepare for a career, not just a job

numbers

A college education can boost your communication skills, expand your knowledge base, make you methodical and organized, boost your confidence, and expose you to a whole new world of learning. In addition to preparing for a career, a college education can help you learn how to work well with others and develop problem-solving skills, something many employers look for in all employees.

Find your fit in tomorrow’s workplace. It’s more important now than ever to have the right skills for the workplace. Manufacturing careers in Michigan are dwindling or going hightech, while careers like health care and computer technology are searching for qualified workers.

Prepare for lifelong learning. Many of today’s college majors didn’t exist 10 or 15 years ago – such as new media, e-business, and homeland security. Education can help prepare you to be a lifelong learner, important in a changing world where tomorrow’s careers are still unknown.

Make lasting memories. Make lasting memories. Whether it’s academic achievements, a memorable professor or hanging out with friends and ordering pizza at 1 a.m. while playing video games, many remember their college years as some of the best of their life!

Have you been thinking about going to college?

Are you asking yourself?

How will I pay for college? Am I college material? Can I balance college with work and everything else?

Take a breath and relax … Jackson College understands and, we’re listening!

Our student success navigators are here to help you through your college experience and make sure you attain your goals.

Winter semester begins Jan. 18, 2016.

Register now at www.jccmi.edu or call: Central Campus: 517.796.8425 W.J. Maher Campus: 517.768.7097 Hillsdale: 517.437.3343 Adrian: 517.265.5515

At Jackson College, we’re listening.

Winter 2015 • Career Source COLLEGE

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