Edvantage - Where the Jobs Are

EdVantage

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College

Volume 2 | Issue 2 | Winter 2009-10

Where The Jobs Are Education for High-Demand Careers

Making a Major Decision: Choosing the Right Career Path

Paying for College: What You Should Know and Do

Employer Wanted: Strategies for Landing the Right Job

Classes Begin Jan 11: Check out abtech.edu/schedule

What’s

NEW NEW

at A-B Tech

JobsNOW program provides short-term training

A-B Tech started classes for its first JobsNOW program – Advanced Customer Service – in November. JobsNOW provides short-term training for occupations where job growth is projected. Programs are designed to be completed in six months or less and include preparation for the North Carolina Career Readiness Certificate; resume writing; and basic computer, interview, and job survival skills. In addition to customer service, upcoming programs will cover Foundations in Culinary, Principles of Business Operations for Entrepreneurs, and Fundamentals of Automated Machinery. Tuition assistance may be available.

Call 245-1921, ext. 5834 to learn more.

Project Skill-UP offers training for tobacco farmers The Economic & Workforce Development/ Continuing Education division has received a $40,000 Project Skill-UP grant through the

North Carolina Community College System from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission.

The goal of Project Skill-Up is to provide short-term training and educational financial assistance to people impacted by decreased tobacco production or changes in the tobacco industry in recent years.

Call 254-1921, Ext. 5832 for more details.

Grove Park Inn donates to scholarship fund The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa and its owner, Sammons Enterprises has donated $20,000 to a scholarship fund for Hospitality Education students at A-B Tech, bringing its total contribution to $60,000 since establishing the fund two years ago.

The scholarships were created in 2007 in honor of Elaine Sammons. Mrs. Sammons had an extensive background in the hotel and hospitality industry. Her husband, Charles, gave generously from the profits of Sammons Enterprises Inc., a conglomerate of insurance, cable television, travel, industrial supply and

bottled-water companies. To learn more about the scholarships, call 254-1921, ext. 232.

Fall enrollment hits 7,500 A-B Tech’s fall semester enrollment reached a record high of more than 7,500 curriculum students, a 6.7 percent increase from fall 2008.

“Our students realize that with smaller classes, taught by dedicated instructors, they will receive excellent preparation to be successful,” said Kenet Adamson, Arts and Sciences dean. “Our significantly less expensive tuition in today’s economic environment also helps convince students to choose A-B Tech as a means to reduce the escalating cost of a higher education.”

A-B Tech celebrates 50 years Faculty, staff, students and members of the community gathered on the lawn of the Simpson Sdministration Building Sept. 1 to celebrate A-B Tech’s 50th anniversary. The College received proclamations from the City of Asheville and Buncombe and Madison counties, designating Sept. 1, 2009 as Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College Day. A “50 years” sculpture will stand in front of the Simpson Building throughout the 2009-2010 school year.

College can be affordable. Financial aid helps make it happen.

Fill out a FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid at www.fafsa.ed.gov A-B Tech’s Federal School Code: 004033

Find out how to qualify by visiting the Financial Aid Office at A-B Tech in the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center or online at abtech.edu/Student_Services/Financial_Aid, or call 254-1921 Ext. 7520.

Winter 2009-10 EdVantage is published by Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Questions about the programs and services described in this publication should be directed to the A-B Tech Admissions Office at (828) 254-1921, ext. 7576 or 7577.

Publisher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Mauney Managing Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mona Cornwell

EdVantage Volume 2 | Issue 2

Features

2

Writers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mona Cornwell, Martha Ball Graphic Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Justin Page Photographers . . . . . . . . . . Justin Page, April Sides, Blake Madden Photography

abtech.edu Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College Board of Trustees David Wyatt Chair Mandy Stone Vice Chair Tom Alexander Mary Ruth Fowler Doris Giezentanner William A. Hart, Jr. Dr. Harvey L. Haynes Richard B. Hurley Kaye A. Myers Talmage Penland Carol Peterson Gordon Randolph Dr. Joe B. Roberson Ray Spells Jesse Korth Student Government Association President Jan Scroggs Secretary All rights reserved. No part of the material printed may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage retrieval system without the permission of the publisher.

115,000 copies printed at a cost of $.08 each.

The primary accreditor of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools located at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, telephone 404.679.4500. Inquiries about the College's accreditation status may be directed to this organization.

1 | EdVantage

On the cover: Mechanical Engineering Technology Chair Sharon Suess displays prototype parts created with her program’s new 3-D printer.

Where The Jobs Are: Education for High-Demand Careers

4

Making A Major Decision

6

Employer Wanted: Strategies To Help Land You A Job

7 A-B Tech Programs 10

Getting Enrolled

11

Navigating Student Services

12

Paying for College: What You Should Know and Do abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Feature

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11.

Manufacturing jobs are still an integral part of the Western North Carolina economy, and employers are seeking skilled workers, according to Tom Tveidt, former director of research for the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County who recently stepped down to manage his own economic research consulting firm full time.

“Manufacturing is at the core of wealth creation for this community. It is a must,” he said. “Manufacturing has more than 18,000 employees, $750 million in local exports and $2.2 billion in gross domestic product. No other industry in the area gets close to that number,” Tveidt said.

Where the Jobs Are: Education for High-Demand Careers

Programs at A-B Tech not only offer the training industry employers are looking for, but allow for hands-on training with green initiatives and the latest in technology.

“With the current state of the economy, these occupations are in desperate need of highly qualified, skilled people.

Students are better positioned to consider the opportunities that abound in these fields and come to A-B Tech to take the necessary classes that can help launch Cutting-edge technology is used to teach students how to produce prototype parts for proof-of-concept, functional testing, product mock-ups, and molds with industry standard ABS plastics. Objects can be modeled in hours instead of days.

2 | EdVantage

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

a new career for them,” said Dr. Sam Dosumu, Vice President of Instructional Services.

One of those programs, Mechanical Engineering Technology, has a 3-D printer that allows a prototype part to be created within hours instead of days, a tool invaluable to research and development. “With this emerging technology, A-B Tech is on the cutting edge when it comes to training students,” said Sharon Suess, Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Systems Technology chair.

“High-demand, low-enrollment” programs like Mechanical Engineering Technology offer the advantage of small classes with dedicated instructors who provide the latest training to their

Recognizing the ever-increasing popularity and environmental benefits of “going green,” many of the programs incorporate sustainability into the curriculum. Carpentry instructors, for example, teach advanced framing techniques that use less wood and more insulation for more energy-efficient structures. Students also learn natural building techniques that use local, low-energy materials such as straw, mud and even waste products like used tires to construct buildings with less environmental impact.

The healthcare industry also is a major

High-Demand Career Programs (and their starting salaries)

Carpentry $20,000

Civil Engineering Technology $14-$16/hr.

$25,000 (degree), $20,000 (diploma) 3 | EdVantage

Industrial Systems Technology $28,000

employer in the community, and A-B Tech’s Medical Assisting program is another high-demand, low-enrollment program. Students in Medical Assisting learn how to perform administrative, clinical, and lab procedures, and find jobs in doctors’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

For more information on these programs and the availability of scholarships, call Dr. Dennis King, Vice President of Student Services, at 254-1921, ext. 140.

A complete listing of A-B Tech programs is on pages 7-9.

Construction Management Technology

Electronics Engineering Technology

Electrical/ Electronics Technology

Machining Technology

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Medical Assisting

$36,000

Heavy Equipment Technology

Sharon Suess, A-B Tech’s Mechanical Engineering Technology Chair, displays sample parts created by her program’s new 3-D printer. The printer gives students an opportunity to use the latest technology in product design research and development.

students to prepare them for career fields where the job outlook is promising.

Limited scholarships are available for new students entering these programs.

$12-$14/hr

$32,000

$32,000 (degree) $24,000 (diploma) $19,000-$27,000

$30,000

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Feature

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11.

Making

Y

ou’ve made Major Decision #1 – to go to college.

But what about Major Decision #2 – what to study?

4 | EdVantage

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

A

Major Decision

Step 1: Know Yourself

Helpful Tips

Choosing a program starts with discovering and understanding some of your personal traits and characteristics.

One way to uncover these characteristics is to use self-assessments. These tools are designed to help identify your interests, what you believe to be your strongest skills, personality type, and values. Self-assessments can also help you understand how your particular traits and characteristics relate to major and career choices. Rather than provide definitive answers, self-assessments increase your self-awareness and some offer researchbased career options to consider in support of your goal to make a good program (major) choice.

To discover important clues about your interests and characteristics, ask yourself the following questions:

Links to on-line assessments can be found on A-B Tech’s Career Development Services web page. Simply click on “Students” then “Career Development Services,” then “Career Assessments.”

Current curriculum students, and applicants for the upcoming semester, can receive additional support in making a major/career decision through career counseling on A-B Tech’s Asheville campus. These sessions will help you evaluate options based on a more indepth exploration of your interests, needs, values, skills, and academic strengths.

To schedule your appointment with a Career Counselor, please select “Students” from our home page, then “Career Development Services” and “Schedule An Appointment.”

5 | EdVantage

➨➨ When I am reading a magazine or newspaper, which articles interest me? ➨➨ When I go to a bookstore, do I spend most of my time in a particular section? ➨➨ What activities do I most enjoy when I have free time? ➨➨ What kinds of settings am I most comfortable in? ➨➨ Which classes do I enjoy the most? ➨➨ When I look through A-B Tech’s college catalog or catalogs at fouryear institutions, which programs are the most interesting to me?

Step 2: Research Your Options When you’ve determined possible majors/careers of interest, the next step is exploring not only the requirements to enter these programs/occupations, but also the benefits that each occupation would offer you.

The A-B Tech Career Development Services web page has extensive information about major and career exploration. A-B Tech curriculum students can also explore these important dimensions in major/career selection through career counseling.

Helpful Tips ➨➨ Review the college programs you are considering, including course descriptions of classes required for your program. ➨➨ Speak with the chairperson of the department about his/her program and the career you are considering. ➨➨ Do web research. ➨➨ Do informational interviews with professionals in the field. ➨➨ Consider volunteering or doing an internship in your field of interest. ➨➨ Get permission to job shadow someone during the work day.

Making an informed choice about a major/career includes learning about specific coursework, length of education, certifications or license requirements beyond your degree, location of various job markets, salary ranges, and occupational outlooks among other factors. abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Feature

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11.

Employer Wanted: to Help You Land A Job

Strategies S

o you’ve finished school and can’t wait to embark on that career you’ve dreamed of since childhood. Or perhaps you’ve been in the same dead-end job for the past decade and you’re ready for a change. Regardless of whether you’re new to the work world or a veteran with years of experience, the most effective way to look for a job is to use a variety of strategies.

skills by scheduling their own appointment with a career counselor on the Asheville campus. Please visit www. abtech.edu, select “Students,” “Career Development Services,” then “Schedule An Appointment.” You can also access information under “Career Development Services” for resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies

Advertisements

Don’t limit your search to the classifieds.

Eighty percent of all positions are filled without employer advertising through a source sometimes referred to as the Hidden Job Market. These jobs are filled by candidates who come to an employer’s attention through employee recommendations, referrals, recruiters, or direct contact with the candidate.

For an employer, the advantage is being able to hire people pre-recommended by someone they trust. Take JobStar’s Hidden Job Market quiz at abtech.edu and select Student then Career Development Services and finally Job Search Strategies to see if the Hidden Job Market will help your job search.

The advertised job market includes classified ads, company websites, employer hotlines, job banks and Internet job listings. Although job seekers are often comfortable with using job ads, the process can be slow and frustrating because for every ad, the employer will likely receive multiple applicants.

For workers with more experience or specialization, the advertised job market may be even smaller because employers will often use referrals, or their networks, to find candidates who are qualified.

Those who do succeed in finding work by answering ads are job seekers whose resume and cover letter are on target and meet, or exceed, the employers’ requirements. They also likely have solid interviewing skills.

A-B Tech curriculum students can receive assistance with resume, cover letter and interviewing 6 | EdVantage

The Mountain Area JobLink Career Center, located in the Maple building is also a good resource for assistance with your job search and can be accessed at http://buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/JobLink/locations.htm.

The Hidden Job Market

The key to the Hidden Job Market is networking. By using your contacts and the people you meet through your contacts, you can learn about positions before they are ever advertised. Check out more details about networking by going to our home page at www.abtech. edu then select “Career Development

Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

Accounting

Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Diploma................................................$12/hr – $14/hr Careers: Maintenance Technician, Climate Control Technician, Service Technician, Systems Engineer, Refrigeration Technician, Estimator A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $25,000 Diploma............................................................. $20,000 Careers: General Automotive Technician, Specialized Technician, Shop Supervisor Electrical/Electronics Certificate ..$10/hr - $12/hr Careers: Test and Measurement Specialist

Baking and Pastry Arts A.A.S. Degree..................................$23,000 - $29,000 Careers: Pastry/Bakery Assistant, Assistant Pastry Chef, Cake Decorator, Baker

Basic Law Enforcement Training Certificate.........................................$28,000 - $38,000 Careers: Police Officer, Deputy Sheriff, Private Security, Detention Officer, Alcohol Control Officer, State Highway Patrol Fast Track Candidate (Applicant must be sponsored by a Law Enforcement agency to be eligible for admission to BLET program.)

Biotechnology A.A.S. Degree.................................$27,000 – $30,000 Careers: Biopharmaceutical Processing, Chemical Processing, Laboratory Technician, Sales and Customer Service

Business Administration A.A.S. Degree.................................$23,000 – $32,000 Careers: Purchasing Agent, Sales Manager, General Supervisor, Operations Officer, Loan Officer, Office Manager

Carpentry Diploma............................................................. $20,000 Careers: Contractors as Carpenters or Estimators, Cabinet Shop Cabinetmakers or Installers

Civil Engineering Technology A.A.S. Degree.....................................$14/hr – $16/hr Careers: Construction Technician, Materials Testing Technician, Construction Inspector, Engineering Technician Civil/Surveying CAD Certificate............................................$10/hr – $12/hr Careers: Civil Engineering/ Surveying CAD Technician

Certificate............................................................$12/hr Careers: CNC Machine Operator Advanced Certificate.........................$14/hr - $16/hr Careers: CNC Machinist, CNC Programmer

Computed Tomography & Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology Diploma............................................$40,000 – $48,000 Careers: Hospitals, Imaging Centers, and Physicians’ Offices where CT and/or MRI is performed CT Certificate...................................$40,000 - $48,000 MRI Certificate................................$40,000 - $48,000 Careers: Hospitals, Imaging Centers, and Physicians’ Offices where CT or MRI is performed

Computer Engineering Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $27,000 Careers: Computer and Network Service Technician, Systems Integration Technician, Automation Specialist, Integrated Manufacturing Technician, Systems Support Engineer, Controls Engineer

Computer Information Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$28,000 – $42,000 Careers: Computer Technician, Help Desk Technician, Information Systems Manager, PC Support Specialist, Database Administrator (DBA), IT Specialist Geospatial Technology Certificate....................................................... $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Database Management Certificate....................................................... $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Microcomputer Applications Certificate....................................................... $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

PC Installation and Maintenance Certificate....................................................... $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Computer-Aided Drafting Technology A.A.S. Degree.....................................$14/hr – $16/hr Careers: CAD Operator, Architectural Drafter, CAD Technician Certificate............................................$12/hr – $15/hr Careers: CAD Operator, CAD Technician Architectural Drafting Certificate . ..........................................$12/hr - $15/hr Careers: Architectural Drafter Landscape Architecture Drafting Certificate.............................$12/hr - $15/hr Careers: Civil/Surveying Drafter, Landscape Architecture Drafter

Construction Management Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $36,000 Careers: Entry-Level Position in Construction Management

Cosmetology A.A.S. Degree..................................$17,000 - $20,000 Diploma.............................................$17,000 - $20,000 Careers: Cosmetologist, Hair Stylist, Nail Technician, Esthetician, Salon Owner

Criminal Justice Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$28,000 – $38,000 Careers: Law Enforcement, Highway Patrol, Deputy Sheriff, Private Security, Magistrate, Correctional Officer, Surveillance Officer, Alcohol Law Enforcement, Wildlife Enforcement

Culinary Technology A.A.S. Degree A.A.S. Degree ................................$23,000 – $29,000 Careers: Saute Chef, Grill Chef, Gardemanger Chef, Soup/Sauce Chef, Kitchen Manager, Catering Banquet Manager, Dining Room Manager, Food/Beverage Manager, Purchasing Agent Steward, Equipment Purveyor

Dental Assisting Diploma............................................$24,000 – $26,000 Careers: V.A. Clinics, Health Departments, State Clinics, Dental Schools, Private and Group Practices

Dental Hygiene A.A.S Degree..................................$48,000 – $52,000 Careers: Dental Offices, Education, Local, State, and Federal Government Agencies, Private Industry

Digital Media Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$28,000 – $42,000 Careers: Graphic Artist/Designer, Multimedia Specialist, Web Content Specialist, Digital Media Specialist, Interface Designer, Digital Video Producer, Digital Layout Artist and many new jobs yet to be defined in this expanding field Digital Video Certificate ............................ $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, Promotions within current position.

Interactive Multimedia Certificate........... $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Early Childhood Education A.A.S. Degree.................................$26,000 – $40,000 Careers: Child Care Worker, Child Care Assistant, Child Care Director, Preschool Director School-Age Education A.A.S. Degree.................................$18,000 – $24,000 Careers: Teacher Assistant in Elementary Schools, Teacher in Child Development Programs, Head Start, School-Age Programs

Salaries may vary based on size of business and other factors.

7 | EdVantage

*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position.

These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Entry-Level Salary Ranges

Automotive Systems Technology

Computer Numerical Control Programming

A-B Tech Career Programs

A.A.S. Degree.................................$25,000 – $31,000 Careers: Accountant, payroll processor, Bookkeeper I Certificate Level I...........................$17,000 - $21,000 Certificate Level II..........................$17,000 - $21,000 Careers: Entry-Level Positions, Promotions within Current Position

A-B Tech Career Programs Early Childhood Certificate.........................................$14,000 - $20,000 Careers: Child development and child care programs, preschools, private schools, recreational centers, Head Start programs and school-age programs Infant/Toddler Care Certificate.........................................$14,000 - $17,000 Careers: Child Development and Childcare Programs, Preschools, Early Head Start, Infant/Toddler Programs Special Education Certificate . ......................................$15,000 - $18,000 Careers: Teacher or Teacher Assistant in a Childcare Classroom or a Developmental Day Center

Electrical Wiring Certificate.............................................$10/hr - $12/hr Careers: Electrician’s Assistant, Solar PV Installer, Apprentice Electrician, Electrical Maintenance Technician, Home Automation Installer, Automotive Entertainment Installer

Entry-Level Salary Ranges Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology

A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $25,000 Diploma............................................................. $20,000 Careers: Diesel Mechanic, Fuel Injection Service Repairer, Heavy Tractor Mechanic Help

Hotel and Restaurant Management A.A.S. Degree.................................$24,000 – $30,000 Careers: Catering Manager, Management Trainee, Restaurant Manager, Director of Food Services, Reservations Manager, Front Office Manager, Country Club Manager, Food/Beverage Manager

Hospitality Management Certificate . .................................................................... potential salary increase of $2,000/yr - $5,000/yr Careers: Career upgrade and Cross-training Bed and Breakfast/Inn Management Certificate...............$18,000 - $21,000 Careers: Bed and Breakfast Manager, Small Lodging Manager

Human Resources Management

Electrical/Electronics Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $32,000 Diploma............................................................. $24,000 Careers: Industrial Maintenance Technician, Industrial Electrician, Facilities Technician, Electrical License Apprentice, Installer and Technician for Home and Business Low Voltage Systems (Entertainment, Security, Telecom)

Electronics Engineering Technology A.A.A. Degree.................................................. $32,000 Careers: Electronics Engineering Technician, Electronics Maintenance Technician, Control Systems Technician, Electrical Tester

Emergency Medical Science A.A.S. Degree.................................$28,000 – $40,000 Careers: Emergency Medical Services, Hospitals, Urgent Care Clinics, Physicians’ Offices, Private Ambulance Companies

Entrepreneurship A.A.S. Degree..................................$25,000 - $45,000 Certificate.........................................$25,000 - $45,000 Careers: Business Owner, Consultant, Capital Investor, Self-Employment

Esthetics Technology Certificate.........................................$25,000 - $30,000 Careers: Esthetician

Fire Protection Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$23,000 – $30,000 Careers: Municipal Fire Departments, Government Agencies, Industrial Firms, Insurance Rating Organizations, Educational Organizations Certificate................................................ Incremental Pay Step Increases of $500 to $1,000 Annually Careers: Promotional Opportunities for Members Within Their Municipal Fire Departments, Government Agencies, Industrial Firms, Insurance Rating Organizations, or Educational Organizations

A.A.S. Degree.................................$20,000 – $30,000 Careers: HR Technician, HR Specialist, HR Manager, Payroll Officer, Benefits Administrator, Team Leadership Training and Development Facilitator, General Supervisor

Human Services Technology/ Social Services A.A.S. Degree.................................$19,000 – $29,000 Careers: Case Worker, Family Support Worker, Youth Worker, Social Service Liaison, Residential Counselor, Behavioral Management Aide/Technician, Case management Aide, Eligibility Counselor, Public Assistance Worker, Substance Abuse Worker, Life Skills Instructor, Social Service Aide/Technician, Social Work Aide/Technician, Group Activities Aide/ Technician, Therapeutic Assistant, Gerontology Aide/Technician, Home Health Aide, Group Home Worker, Mental Health Aide/Technician, Intake Interviewer, Community Outreach Worker, Psychological Aide/Technician, Halfway House Counselor, Rehabilitation Case Worker, Residential Manager

Industrial Systems Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $28,000 Careers: Manufacturing Maintenance Technician, Facilities Management Technician, Maintenance Mechanic Diploma.................................................$10/hr - $12/hr Careers: Entry-Level Maintenance Technician

Information Systems Security A.A.S. Degree.................................$36,900 – $43,500 Careers: Information Technology Specialist, Data Security Administrator, Information Security Analyst, Information Security Officer, Computer Specialist, Information Security Specialist, Information Systems Security Analyst, Computer Security Specialist, Information Security Manager, Information Technology Security Analyst

Machining Technology

A.A.S. Degree.....................................$12/hr – $14/hr Diploma................................................$12/hr – $14/hr Careers: Manufacturing Machinist, Machine or CNC Set-Up Operator, Quality Control Technician Machining, Basic Certificate ........................$10/hr Careers: Machine Operator

Manicuring/Nail Technology Certificate.........................................$15,000 - $18,000 Careers: Manicurist, Nail Technician

Marketing and Retailing A.A.S. Degree.................................$25,000 – $32,000 Careers: Assistant Manager, Department Manager, Sales Representative, Salesperson, Retail Buyer Retail Marketing Certificate . .....................................$20,000 – $25,000 Careers: Entry-Level Retail Positions

Mechanical Engineering Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................................. $30,000 Careers: Manufacturing Engineer, Quality Control Technician, Mechanical Designer, Maintenance Engineering Technician Mechanical Drafting Certificate ................ $28,500 Careers: Mechanical Drafter

Medical Assisting A.A.S. Degree.................................$19,000 – $27,000 Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Health Maintenance Organizations

Medical Laboratory Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$25,000 – $33,000 Careers: Hospitals, Emergency Care Clinics, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, General Clinics, Commercial Labs

Medical Office Administration Diploma.............................................$20,800 - $24,950 Careers: Medical and Dental Offices, Hospitals, Insurance Companies, Laboratories, Medical Supply Companies, Healthcare Related Organizations Medical Coding Certificate .........$20,800 - $24,960 Careers: Medical and Dental Offices, Hospitals, Insurance Companies, Laboratories, Healthcare Related Organizations

Medical Sonography A.A.S. Degree.................................$40,000 – $48,000 Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Imaging Centers, Mobile/Traveling Services

Medical Transcription Diploma............................................................. $20,800 Careers: Hospitals, Medical Clinics, Doctors’ Offices, Private Transcription Businesses, Research Facilities, Insurance Companies, Publishing Companies

Salaries may vary based on size of business and other factors.

8 | EdVantage

*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position.

These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11. Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

Networking Technology

A.A.S. Degree.................................$39,000 – $48,000 Careers: Hospitals, Long-Term Care Facilities, Clinics, Physicians’ Offices, Industry, Community, Health Agencies

Practical Nursing Diploma............................................$24,000 – $32,000 Careers: Hospitals, Long-Term Care Facilities, Physicians’ Offices, Industry, Community Health Agencies

Office Administration A.A.S. Degree.................................$25,000 – $27,000 Diploma............................................$22,000 – $25,000 Careers: Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, Word Processor, Information Processing Specialist, Administrative Support Word Processing/Desktop Publishing Certificate....................$20,800 - $24,950 Careers: Marketing Communications Coordinator, Technical Writer, Technical Publications Engineer, Web Digital Electronic Prepress Manager, Digital Electronic Prepress Manager/Developer, Documentation Software Product Manager, Digital Image Processor, Production Supervisor, Proofreader, Administrative Assistant

Phlebotomy Certificate.........................................$20,000 - $25,000 Careers: Hospitals, Physicians’ Offices, Health Departments, Blood Donation Centers, Emergency Care Centers, Commercial Labs

Radiography A.A.S. Degree.................................$35,000 – $42,000 Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Emergency Care Clinics, Industry, Imaging Centers

Certificate........................................$25,000 – $32,000 Careers: Member/guest Services, Assistant Spa Directors, Spa Attendant Supervisors, Spa Concierge, Spa Sales Managers, Assistant Clubhouse Managers

Surgical Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$28,000 – $31,000 Diploma............................................$28,000 – $31,000 Careers: Hospitals, Surgery Centers, Physicians’ Offices, Organ Harvest Organizations

Surveying Technology A.A.S. Degree.....................................$14/hr – $16/hr Careers: Construction Layout Technician, Land Surveyor, Mapper Surveying Fundamentals Certificate............................................$10/hr – $12/hr Careers: Construction Layout Assistant, Land Surveying Aide

Therapeutic Massage A.A.S. Degree.................................$25,000 – $30,000 Diploma............................................$21,000 – $26,000 Careers: Massage Therapist in Medical Facilities, Health Clubs, Spas, and Private Practice

Veterinary Medical Technology A.A.S. Degree.................................$18,000 – $24,000 Careers: Veterinary Clinics, Diagnostic Labs, Research Labs, Zoos, Animal Care Facilities, Pharmaceutical Companies, Feed Companies

Web Technologies A.A.S. Degree.................................$30,000 – $42,000 Careers: Web Designer, Web Administrator, Web Developer, Webmaster, Web Database Programmer/Developer Web Designer Certificate. ........................ $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Web Programming Certificate ................. $25,000* Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Welding Technology A.A.S. Degree.....................................$17/hr – $25/hr Diploma................................................$15/hr – $22/hr Careers: Arc Welder, Arc Welder-Machine Operator, Gas Welder-Machine Operator, Combination Welder, Pipe Welder Welding I, Basic Certificate......................$10-12/hr Careers: Welder’s Assistant

Real Estate Appraisal Certificate........................................$25,000 – $40,000 Careers: Appraiser Trainee. With required experience: Certified Appraiser (Residential), General Appraiser (Commercial), Right-of-Way Procurement

Real Estate Licensing Certificate.........................................$25,000 - $40,000 Careers: Residential Real Estate Services

Salaries may vary based on size of business and other factors.

*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position.

These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Entry-Level Salary Ranges

Nursing Associate Degree Nursing

Resort and Spa Management

A-B Tech Career Programs

A.A.S. Degree..................................$36,900 - $43,500 Careers: Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist), Local Area Network Administrator (LAN Administrator), Information Technology Manager (IT Manager), Information Technology Director (IT Director), Systems Engineer, Network Manager, Network Specialist Cisco Certified Network Administrator Preparation Certificate . .............$30,338 - $69,059* Careers: Entry-Level Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Technician, Systems Administrator, Systems Analyst, Systems Engineer

Enrolled

Student Services

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11. Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

Getting

The College accepts applications continuously throughout the school year. Early application is advised for many programs, especially allied health. (Specific information about applying for allied health programs can be found at abtech.edu.)

SUBMIT an application

SEND in your transcript

TAKE the ACCUPLACER test

Applications can be submitted online or forms can be downloaded from abtech.edu.

Click on Students. Applicants can use the computers in the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center on the Asheville campus.

Have an official copy of your final high school and other college transcripts sent to:

To schedule an appointment, go to abtech.edu and click on Students, then Placement Test Scheduling. Students may exempt testing with specific SAT or ACT scores of greater than 500. Please refer to placement testing information on the web. Students with transfer credit in English and/ or math may not be required to test.

Go to abtech.edu/apply.

Admissions Department A-B Tech 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC, 28801.

If applying to one of the college’s competitive Allied Health programs, testing for Fall 2010 runs through Jan. 29, 2010.

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SEE an Advisor An advisor will review your scores after you take the placement tests and complete the process of admitting you to your desired program.

This includes advising and preparing you for registration.

For questions about program admission or testing, please contact the Student Services Success Center at :

254-1921 ext. 7520.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Navigating Student Services

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eceiving assistance at the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center starts with stopping at the sign-in station and answering a few questions on the computer. Once that is complete, take a ticket, have a seat and relax.

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our name and number will be called and you will be directed to the person who can best help you based on the questions you answered during sign-in.

Services at the center include registration, dropping and adding classes, and checking on financial aid status. More in-depth services are also available for students new to the college who need to apply, learn about programs and take a placement test. A Veterans’ Services Office and a Disability Services Office are also available for qualified students.

The Bailey Building also houses the College Bookstore and the Business Office for quick payments.

A-B Tech Advisors The Bailey Building houses advisors who assist students with everything needed to be successful at the College. Advisors assist students with classes and develop education plans with them.

Other services performed by advisors include: ➨➨ Admissions procedures ➨➨ Transcript information ➨➨ Placement testing and evaluation ➨➨ Information regarding childcare, veterans’ services, and career development resources ➨➨ Financial aid application and status Check in at the the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center.

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abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

Paying Feature

Spring Semester begins Jan. 11. Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

for College: What You Should Know and Do

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ontinuing your education makes sense for you. You’re ready to take that important step. What may not make sense is how you’re going to pay for it. Though a community college education is a great deal, paying for it can still be daunting and confusing. We know how you feel and that is why we’re here to help.

Don’t be intimidated You, the student, are responsible for the portion of your educational costs that you can reasonably afford. This is determined by standard financial aid formulas. Most students and their families pay for college through a combination of savings, current earnings, and borrowing.

Though the cost of a college education may seem difficult to afford, it is important to remember that affordability is determined by breaking down the cost over time in monthly payments, just as you would when making other considerable purchases. Remember that your education is an investment.

Financial Aid Saving is the safest way to ensure you can pay for college. If you have not saved as much as you need, it is still possible to finance your education. All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. Financial aid is awarded based on a number of factors.

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The first step in securing financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for federal, state, or institutional aid. Complete the FAFSA online at fafsa.ed.gov. The FAFSA for the 2009-10 academic year may be submitted through June 30, 2010. Be sure to include A-B Tech’s Federal School Code, 004033, so the Financial Aid Office will receive the results. Following your FAFSA submission, you will receive the Student Aid Report (SAR).

Review the SAR information carefully.

Approximately eight to 12 weeks later, you will be notified through your A-B

Tech student email account that your award letter is ready to be viewed in WebAdvisor. This letter outlines assistance you are eligible for and information about using the financial aid.

Scholarships and Grants Scholarships and grants come from a variety of sources and require individual applications. According to College Foundation of North Carolina, the state has more than $600 million a year available for students and that doesn’t include federal and college assistance.

Work-Study Many colleges, including A-B Tech, offer work-study opportunities. Check with the Financial Aid Office to learn more.

You may also consider an internship related to your course of study. While gaining valuable, hands-on experience, you will also be earning money to put toward college if the internship is paid.

Check with your department to see what internships are available. You can

Resources On the Web ➨➨ www.cfnc.org

Free Scholarship Search Services

➨➨ www.ncgov.com/ToLearn.aspx

College Foundation of North Carolina ➨➨ www.cfnc.org/paying/schol/aid_search.jsp

➨➨ studentaid.ed.gov

Scholarship Search ➨➨ apps.collegeboard.com/cbsearch_ss/welcome.jsp Fastweb ➨➨ www.fastweb.com Wiredscholar ➨➨ www.collegeanswer.com/paying/scholarship_search/pay_scholarship_search.jsp FinAid ➨➨ www.finaid.org

also plan internships with individual employers in your field.

Loans Take advantage of federal and state loans, which have lower interest rates than private loans and accommodating repayment schedules. Be cautious of borrowing from private lenders who usually offer easier access, but have higher interest rates that make it much more difficult to pay back. It is also important to not borrow more than you need.

Tuition Payment Plan A-B Tech offers a payment plan for tuition and fees if you have repaid all prior payment plans on time. The plan breaks the payment down into three equal payments. To find out more, go to abtech.edu/payments.asp.

People To Ask A-B Tech Financial Aid Office K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC 28801 Phone: (828) 254-1921, ext 7520 Fax: (828) 281-9837 Email: finaid@abtech.edu Federal School Code 004033

Financial Aid Hours Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

A-B Tech Foundation Office Leronica Casey, Resource Development Coordinator lcasey@abtech.edu 13 | EdVantage

Scholarship Tips Though the majority of student aid comes in the form of federal loans and grants, scholarships are a great option in paying for college. Money for your education, ranging from a couple hundred dollars to full tuition, is given to you and you do not have to pay it back. Scholarships can be based on any number of factors, including merit, athletics, need, and group affiliation. They do require time and effort in finding and applying for them, but are well worth it if you get the money. Here are some tips to help you maximize your scholarship-seeking efforts.

Let the Search Begin ➨➨ Start your search for scholarships early. Do a personal inventory to determine what types of groups might offer scholarships that are applicable to you. Bear in mind what your plans are during and after college, including academic, extracurricular, and career plans. ➨➨ Online scholarship searches have information on many awards and match your profile with possible fits.

Review these options carefully. You should not have to pay a scholarship search. ➨➨ Know what scholarships are available to you locally. The number of applicants will be lower than national scholarships so your chances are increased. ➨➨ Check your local library. Look for scholarship guides and information for local residents. ➨➨ Visit the Financial Aid Office for the latest information for A-B Tech students. Did you know that colleges disburse the majority of all scholarships? ➨➨ Check with your employer, your parents’ employer, and membership organizations. Job-related scholarships or assistance may be available.

➨➨ Research your state’s scholarship program by contacting your state Department of Higher Education. For North Carolina residents, the website is www.ncgov.com/ToLearn.aspx.

Apply Yourself ➨➨ Apply a lot. You might be surprised to receive a scholarship you didn’t know applied to you. ➨➨ Know the deadlines and requirements.

Apply in order of deadline. Consider making a folder for each and filing them by their deadline so that none will slip through the cracks. ➨➨ Questions about your eligibility or the application? Contact the scholarship sponsor. Or apply anyway. ➨➨ Use your experiences, achievements, essays, recommendations, and interviews to win the money you’re after. Keep in mind that the reader will be asking him/herself “Why should I give the money to this person?” Be sure to answer that question in your essay. Do not exaggerate any part of your history. Do, however, make a compelling case as to why you should receive the money. ➨➨ Make sure your application is complete and correct. Before you send it, have a parent, teacher, or friend read your application and essay for grammatical errors as well as areas in which you can improve. Follow directions carefully. For example, do not go over the word limit on the essay. ➨➨ Make copies of everything you send.

If anything is lost, you will be able to replace it easily. File these copies in the corresponding file folder for that scholarship. ➨➨ Be aware that scholarships may affect your financial aid package. Talk to the Financial Aid Office to see how this might affect you.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

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ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC 28801

Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Asheville, NC Permit No. 440 ECRWSS

Postal Customer

massage

Dine With Us

Baking and Pastry Arts | Culinary Technology | Hotel and Restaurant Management

Enjoy a dining experience beyond your expectations. Our Hospitality

Therapeutic Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Reflexology available based on curriculum

appointments made by email only: spa@abtech.edu

Education programs showcase the most attentive service paired with the finest foods prepared by an award-winning culinary arts program.

Learn more about dining at A-B Tech: abtech.edu/bh/hospitality

The cost of A-B Tech services helps cover the costs of materials.

CUT COLOR

Dental Teaching Clinic

MASK

Cleanings | X-Rays | Sealants

STYLE

Spa

A-B Tech

A-B Tech’s Low-Cost

PEDICURE

LASH

TEXTURE

BIKINI B ROW FAC I A L

HA I R MANICURE

NA I L S BRAIDS

TRIM

Salon Full Service

Appointments made by email only: spa@abtech.edu

Appointment only: 254-1921 Ext. 255 (Initial screening required)

For existing dental hygiene patients, limited restorative dental work may be offered in select semesters.