LMC CareerFocus 2016 by Los Medanos College

Summer/Fall 2016 Volume 8 • Issue 1 TM

LMC Alums Fulfill Their Dreams YOUR road to career success starts here!

Employers reach out to LMC for their workforce needs

LMC is one of the TOP 150 Community Colleges in the U.S.! LMC’s Veterans Services Expanding with new services and a veterans resource center

ECRWSS RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER CareerFocus Los Medanos College 2700 East Leland Road Pittsburg, CA 94565

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CONTENTS

Questions about the Los Medanos College programs and services described in this publication should be directed to the LMC Welcome Center at 925-473-7439. Comments or questions about the publication itself can be directed to the LMC Marketing Department at 925-473-7322. Publisher............................................Bob Kratochvil, Ed.D. President, Los Medanos College Editor.................................................. Barbara Hudler Cella Director of Marketing and Media Design

FEATURE

Visit us at: www.losmedanos.edu

Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board: Vicki Gordon, President Greg Enholm, Vice President Tim Farley, Secretary John E. Márquez, Member John T. Nejedly, Member Gary S. Walker-Roberts, Student Trustee Chancellor: Dr. Helen Benjamin CareerFocus is published periodically by Los Medanos College, 2700 East Leland Road, Pittsburg, CA 94565 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. This magazine received $24,616 (66% of its total cost) from a grant awarded under the Trade Adjustment Community College & Career Training (TAACCCT) Grants, as implemented by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. Additional support was provided by Carl D. Perkins funds, the Title III HSI STEM grant, the Student Success and Support Program (3SP), and by DSN Mark Martin. It is the policy of the Contra Costa Community College District and Los Medanos College to provide an educational and employment environment in which no person shall be unlawfully subject to discrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, race, color, medical condition, ancestry, marital status or physical or mental disability or based on association with a person or group with one of more of these actual or perceived characteristics. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular activities. Unlawful harassment, discrimination or denial of access of any employee/ student with regard to ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, age, sex, race, color, ancestry, sexual orientation, or physical or mental disability is strictly prohibited. The lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the College’s education programs. Inquiries regarding compliance and/ or grievance procedures and requests for the elevation and addition of sports may be directed to the Los Medanos College Title IX Officer and Section 504/ADA Coordinator: Gail Newman, Senior Dean, Student Services, gnewman@losmedanos.edu, 925-473-7421.

Los Medanos College Named in Top 150 U.S. Community Colleges

Eligible for Aspen Prize for Excellence and $1 million

When Will I Ever Use This?

LMC Alums Fulfill Their Dreams

Employers Reach Out to LMC for Their Workforce Needs

A new look at contextualized learning

LMC PROGRAMS & SERVICES

LMC’s Veterans Services are Expanding

10 Be a STEM Success @ LMC

Reflect, Explore, Pursue!

11 A Head’s Up on Financial Aid

New services and a veterans resource center opening

Changes (for the good!)

Plan your road to career success here

IN EVERY ISSUE

SUCCESS STORIES

12 Los Medanos College A-Z List

Check out LMC’s programs, degrees and certificates

Summer/Fall

e 8 • Issue 2016 Volum

LMC Alumni Fulfill Their Dreams of Great Careers Doing what they love, for life!

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CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

FEATURE

Los Medanos College Named One of Top 150 in U.S. Community Colleges Eligible for 2017 Aspen Prize for Excellence and $1 million by Barbara Cella Highlighting the critical importance of improving student success in America’s community colleges, the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program has named Los Medanos College (LMC) as one of the nation’s top 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the 2017 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and $1 million in prize funds, as well as Siemens Technical Scholars Program student scholarships. “It is an incredible honor to be nationally recognized by the Aspen Institute,” said Los Medanos College President Bob Kratochvil. “Los Medanos College is committed to providing access, equitable outcomes, and success for all of our students, and that is reflected in the dedication and passion of our faculty, staff, and managers. Together, these educators foster an institutional culture of collaboration and innovation aimed at facilitating student success and serving our community. I am very proud of the work that LMC does, and am thrilled that our College community has been acknowledged for increasing opportunities and improving outcomes for students.” The Aspen Prize (Prize), awarded every two years, is the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among America’s community colleges and recognizes institutions for exceptional student outcomes in four areas: student learning, certificate and degree completion, employment and earnings, and access and success for minority and low-income students. Nearly half of America’s college students attend community college, with more than seven million students – youth and adult learners – working toward certificates and degrees in these institutions across the country.

Spotlighting First-Rate STEM Programs “There are exceptional community colleges across our country providing students with a high-quality, affordable education that leads to good careers and strong economic opportunity,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. A full list of the selected colleges and details on the selection process are available at www.aspenprize.org. Ten finalists will be named in fall 2016. The Aspen Institute will then conduct site visits to each of the finalists and collect additional quantitative data, including employment and earnings data from states and transfer data from the National Student Clearinghouse. A distinguished Prize Jury will select a grand prize recipient and finalists with distinction in early 2017. The Aspen Prize is funded by the Joyce Foundation, the Siemens Foundation, and the Kresge Foundation.

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For the first time, the 150 Prize-eligible institutions are also invited to nominate exceptional students enrolled in their best middle-skill STEM programs for scholarships. Up to 50 Siemens Technical Scholars will be selected from programs that provide outstanding preparation for high-demand jobs in manufacturing, energy, health care, and information technology. A partnership between the Siemens Foundation and the Aspen Institute, the Siemens Technical Scholars Program intends to help our nation’s community colleges and their business partners bridge the gap between projected shortages of skilled workers and the millions of high-demand jobs in these STEM industries. Scholarship winners and the programs that deliver rigorous training enabling their success will be announced in fall 2016. For more information and to view video profiles of 2015 Siemens Technical Scholars, go to http://as.pn/stscholars.

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FEATURE

“When will I ever use this?” A new look at contextualized learning by Tara Sanders Will I ever use this in a future career? Here is a look at innovative math instruction for all ages that exposes students to high-wage, in-demand careers. At some point in every student’s life, the question is asked, “when will this ever be useful?” The Bay Area Water/Wastewater Workforce Development Collaborative (BAYWORK) has found an answer to that very question, by creating engaging methods to pique students’ interest in math and exposing them to exciting careers. A consortium of Bay Area water and wastewater treatment utilities, BAYWORK is leveraging its resources to recruit employees into high-demand fields. There is a wide range of employment opportunities within these companies and they struggle to fill them - from wastewater treatment operator to electrical technician. California Community Colleges, specifically the Electrical & Instrumentation Technology (ETEC) and Process Technology (PTEC) programs at Los Medanos College (LMC), prepare prospective employees for these positions. The jobs and trainings are easily accessible, but many don’t know about these opportunities and some don’t have the math skills to pursue them.

to build real bridges between the classroom and industry that students can see and walk over. The purpose of the ‘Contextualized Learning Project’ is to show students that the very skills their teachers are trying to teach them today could be their bridge to a useful, high-paying skilled trades job that will benefit not only them but society and the environment,” says Cheryl Davis, previous Chair of BAYWORK, now principal of CKD Consulting. There is a major gap in the skilled labor workforce, where wages are competitive, but math is a must. “…BAYWORK is concerned about this gap; we need a reliable pipeline of qualified candidates who have the skills and credentials needed to do quality work. Additionally, we would prefer for these to be individuals from our communities, to help our youth get good jobs,” says Davis.

Both Los Medanos College and BAYWORK are very excited about this project, and look forward to its piloting. One module is already complete, with others already in production. The current Chair of BAYWORK, Ingrid Bella, commented that “BAYWORK has created a partnership with Los Medanos College, to build water and wastewater-specific contextualized learning for high schools and community colleges. We know that if students can see the connection between the math and communication skills they are learning now, and real-life scenarios, there is a better chance they will want to learn more about the careers that this knowledge can lead to.”

For more information on these programs at Los Medanos College, visit www. losmedanos.edu, and for more information on BAYWORK and career opportunities, visit www.baywork.org.

That isn’t discouraging these utilities, though. Together as BAYWORK, employers such as SFPUC, EBMUD, and others are creating projects that expose, interest, and prepare students of all ages for working within their industry. One of these projects is the “Contextualized Learning Project,” in which math curriculum has been designed to reflect the utilities field. Videos feature LMC alumni who now work for these companies. They entertain and engage students by making the math activities real. These videos present problems for the class to solve, showing students how they could actually use the math in real careers. “I have done many presentations in high schools, and it has been painful to see the denial and bravado that students use to hide the fact that they have no idea how they are going to make a living in the world. We are not doing enough

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CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

FEATURE

LMC’s Veterans Services Expanding by Diane Ferguson The United States Armed Forces have deployed over 3 million troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. An estimated 30,000 men and women leave the military and return to California each year. That number is expected to dramatically increase as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan wind down and the military downsizes. Student veterans add diversity and value to our campus population that we welcome at Los Medanos College. Their military experience has given them a strong sense of maturity, motivation, and discipline while providing them with outstanding leadership qualities and mentoring skills. As these veterans transition back to civilian life, many will utilize their education benefits. Community college is a popular option. For the majority of returning veterans attending a community college, this will be their first experience in higher education, and the transition from military to college can be quite challenging.

providers including the Concord Vet Center (specializing in OEF/OIF Veterans), Vocational Rehabilitation counselors (Dept. of Veterans Affairs, VR&E) and the Veterans Outreach Program Specialist (Employment Development Dept.) have a regular presence at LMC. With the opening of the Los Medanos College Veterans Resource Center in spring of 2016, we will be able to increase and enhance the services we provide our student veterans. It will be located next to the cafeteria in the College Complex Building, Level 3. The staff will include a veterans counselor, education benefit certifying officials, and work-study student veterans. Proposed services include:

Typical transition challenges for student veterans can include: • marriage, family and work stressors

• access to computers, printers and copiers

• loss of camaraderie

• a relaxing atmosphere for our veterans to study and network with other veterans

• financial aid stressors, lack of awareness regarding VA Benefits, financial aid, and other available resources • difficulty in navigating the bureaucracy of VA and other government paperwork in order to receive benefits • length of absence from school (4 or more years between high school or last college course) can lead to the necessity of remedial and/or refresher courses • age difference and life experience between veteran and average college student Combat veterans may face additional transition issues like PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and/or MST (Military Sexual Trauma). According to a

LMC Alum and Navy Veteran, Patrick McQuaid, introduces his son to the College and the world of work.

• financial aid information and application assistance

study cited in The Chronicle of Higher Education, by Sara Lipka (August, 2011), nearly half of all student veterans show significant symptoms of PTSD, a third suffer from severe anxiety, and a quarter experience severe depression.

• support and easy access to academic counseling

Los Medanos College offers a variety of services to our student veterans to help alleviate transition issues. We provide dedicated academic counselors, Blue Star (priority) counseling appointments and priority registration for eligible veterans. Our counselors and Veteran Certifying Officials are knowledgeable about local veteran service providers and organizations and are able to recommend referrals as needed. Veteran service

• a meeting place for our student veterans club

• referrals to off-campus veteran services & resources • emergency loan program

For more information about veterans services at LMC, visit www.losmedanos.edu/veterans

LMC Alumni Spotlight LMC Alum and Marine Corps Veteran, Mark Moraga, joined the Marines in 2004 as a way to find direction and maybe a career focus for his life. He wanted to leave negative influences in his community. Mark is an OIF veteran with tours overseas that included Fallujah and Ramadi. Within one week of his discharge from the Marines in August 2008, Mark enrolled at LMC, and became one of our first veterans to utilize the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Mark found the transition favorable. LMC and academic life helped him not get lost in the civilian world. Attending and studying in classes provided him with the commitment and accountability he was used to in his former military life. Mark began his college career in pursuit of a degree in liberal arts, but also explored LMC’s Administration of Justice (AJ) program. The AJ classes cultivated such an interest that he applied and was hired by Antioch Police Department in 2014. They provided training through the Contra Costa County Law Enforcement Training Center Basic Academy and he is now a full-time police officer with the City of Antioch. Next, by utilizing foundation courses he took at LMC, he plans to further his education in Fall ’16 by attending Saint Mary’s College and earn a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Studies Degree. Go Mark!

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Veterans, College and Career A higher percentage of male veterans go into management and professional careers (34.6%) than non-veterans (32.5%). This is even more true for female veterans (48.7%) compared to female non-veterans (39.6%).

21.8 million

There are over veterans in the U.S. today and (about 1.6 million are women).

Both male and female veterans have a higher median income than non-veterans. Male veterans $37,307 2014 median income

43% of all military veterans attending

Male non-veterans 32,433 2014 median income

college are enrolled in community colleges.

Female veterans $31,810 2014 median income

The unemployment rate for veterans May 2014

6.1 percent

Female non-veterans $21,804 2014 median income

October 2015

3.9

36.4% of male veterans have some college 45.3% of female veterans have some college 26% of male veterans have a bachelor’s degree or higher

percent

32.8% of female veterans have a bachelor’s degree or higher

Sources: US Census Bureau 2014 American Community Survey; “Facts for Features: Veterans Day 2015,” Census Bureau.

Essential College and Career Resources for Veterans GI Jobs: Your Guide to Post-Military Success (www.gijobs.com) A wealth of resources for veterans who are just getting ready to return to college or enter the job market. Find information about veterans college benefits, occupations and salaries along with tips for interviewing, resume writing and job hunting. Student Veterans of America (www.studentveterans.org) Support and resources for veterans attending college. 500 chapters nationwide. Military.com (www.military.com) Connects service members, families and veterans to a wide range of services and benefits from discounts and mentors to government benefits and scholarships. My Next Move for Veterans (www.mynextmove.org/vets) Research your next career and determine how your military experience translates into civilian employment. GI Bill (www.gibill.va.gov) Determine which veterans education benefit is right for you and apply online.

Veterans Benefits Pay for College Transitioning out of the military often means transitioning into a new career. Veterans benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill and Post 9/11 GI Bill provide financial support for veterans for a variety of educational programs including two-year and four-year colleges. • The Montgomery GI Bill – For veterans who served before September 11, 2001. • The post 9/11 GI Bill – For most veterans who qualify, this is a more generous package of educational benefits that also includes a housing stipend. Other GI education benefits: • Reserve Educational Assistance – For members of the Reserve components called or ordered to active duty in response to a war or national emergency. • Survivor and Dependents Assistance – Provides education and training opportunities to spouses, sons and daughters of certain veterans. • Veterans Retraining Assistance Program or “VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011” – Provides financial assistance for training for veterans who are 35-60 years old, unemployed and not eligible for other VA benefits. Source: www.gibill.va.gov

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CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

FEATURE

Reflect, Explore, Pursue!

Your Road to Career Success Starts Here by Kristin Conner As you think about the next step in your life, what do you see? A career? More education? Job advancement? Transfer & Career Services at Los Medanos College can help you create your plan for the future. As you consider college majors, careers are a big focus–but where do you start? Follow these steps to get headed in the right direction:

REFLECT Think about the qualities and characteristics in your life, work and/or activities that are important to you. What are you naturally skilled at and what skills would you like to gain? What activities bring you fulfillment and what are the values you want represented in your work and life? What topics draw your interest? Who do you like to be around in group activities? All of these factors play a part in determining the career direction that might be best suited for you. If you feel a bit “stuck,” Transfer & Career Services can assist by connecting you with a career counselor who can help you reflect and refine your priorities through career exploration tools and activities. Additionally, LMC’s Career Services website has wonderful activities you can do on your own to help you clarify your career goals.

EXPLORE After looking inward at what is important to you, next turn your attention outward: explore careers, jobs, industries, and positions to understand how the working world aligns with what you have identified as priorities and values at this point in your life. Utilize information on LMC’s Career Services website such as Career Coach, California Career Café, and the Occupational Outlook Handbook to narrow your interests and create a stronger educational and career plan. Find those links and more at www.losmedanos.edu/ career.

PURSUE The final step is to go after your refined career goal. If your career plans include transferring from LMC to get your bachelor’s degree, utilize the Transfer Services programs and resources to: meet with a university admissions representative; go on free tours to 4-year institutions; receive assistance in applying to CSUs, UCs or private universities; join a transfer-focused learning community; and learn about transfer agreement guarantee (TAG) options.

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If your plans include full-time work or internships while at Los Medanos College, utilize the career counselor once again to make sure your resume and cover letter are effective for your target career. Discover resources to network and apply to listings online through the Career Services website and the variety of career programs offered each year.

are available to guide you through all phases of reflection, exploration, and pursuit to help you find your best career fit.

For more information, visit www.losmedanos.edu/transfer.

LMC’s Transfer & Career Services staff are located in the Student Services Center on Level 4. They

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SUCCESS STORIES

LMC Alumni Fulfill Their Dreams Doing what they love, for life!

Many LMC alumni are working in our communities and having the time of their lives. You have every reason to be excited about your future, too – a college education will help prepare you for a lifetime of career success. Here we showcase a few of our alumni, with the hope that you find inspiration to fuel your journey to a great career!

George Mills

Morgan Livingston

George Mills, originally from Liberia, came to Los Medanos College guided by family members, and stayed because of the warm community, the atmosphere of success, and the tremendous instruction he received.

You might say the desire to be a teacher was something Morgan Livingston was born with. Okay, so her mother is a high school teacher, and her dad was a professor, senior dean and even interim president at LMC. Yes, a bit of family influence, indeed! Now, Morgan is an adjunct professor at Cal Poly and loving life as she fulfills her dreams.

After receiving an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts at LMC, George transferred to CSU East Bay and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master’s in Public Administration. He began his career in higher education as a student assistant at LMC, spent many years working in Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS), and recently moved to Contra Costa College as Manager of EOPS/CARE & CalWORKS. “I think it was mostly the environment at LMC that helped me succeed. It was easy for me to learn in a place where everything around you lends itself to an atmosphere of success - labs, great teachers, and personally the opportunity to work on campus so that I could give back.” George was pivotal in LMC’s efforts aimed at strengthening support and increasing success rates for male students of color as they transition to college. He hopes to remain in academia, but, “if the non-profit world calls, the United Nations, or some other entity dedicated to humanity, I can see myself taking that step.”

Norma Cendejas Norma Cendejas immigrated to the United States from Mexico at the age of 16, already married and pregnant with her first child. She never attended high school. “I came here as a migrant farm worker and all five of my kids were in the Migrant Head Start program. I enjoyed visiting the program’s center and volunteered in the classroom. I saw myself working as a teacher and helping those children and their families because I was familiar with the struggle they were going through.” She enrolled at Los Medanos College and earned both a Certificate and an Associate Degree in Child Development, as well as an Associate Degree in Behavioral Science. “LMC provided a positive experience for me. I never had any serious obstacles, but rather, had very good professors and counselors who helped guide me throughout my education.” One benefit was the opportunity to work in the College’s Child Study Center, where I felt a sense of belonging and community with my classmates and mentors. The experience was a significant step in my professional growth.” Norma now works as a site supervisor for El Concilio, Council for the Spanish Speaking, serving low-income families who work in seasonal/ agricultural jobs. She is a senior at CSU East Bay – studying Human Development, with a focus on Adolescent Development – and hopes to graduate in Spring ‘16.

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“I attended LMC,” she shared, “primarily because my dad worked there and because my whole family firmly believes in the community college system. It just made logical sense to save money and get the same quality of education at a 2-year as I would get at a 4-year.” “Being a part of the LMC Honors Scholars Program was key for me. While there, I found a strong mentor and a supportive community. The honors classes were very rigorous. The program put me on the college track so when I transferred over to UC Santa Barbara, there wasn’t that big of a jump at all.” Morgan chose to transfer to UC Santa Barbara, influenced by the energy she found there while on a college tour. They also had an Honors program, in which offered Honors Housing and the opportunity to develop new friends far from home. After earning her BA in Literature/English, Morgan went on to complete her MA in English/Literature at Cal Poly, where she continues to teach. Yes, she is living her dream!

Jeff Lemler Jeff Lemler found himself, in high school, fairly apathetic and without any concrete goals for the future – often a common feeling among youth that age. Eventually, after 12 years working in restaurants, he discovered his passion. One day he had an epiphany at work while carrying a tray of drinks: “I like cars. I've always liked cars. I've always worked on them as a hobby. Maybe I could do it as a career!" Jeff chose LMC’s Automotive Technology Program because it was affordable. Once he took his first auto class, he was hooked. He found the instructors to be extremely knowledgeable. The program features a live auto shop – serving real customers with cars in need of repairs – where students get hands-on work experience. This helped Jeff not only with tech skills, but also with real work environment skills. He loved his classes and wound up earning every auto tech certificate offered at LMC. Five years later, Jeff is proud to be a master technician for Lexus! He feels the LMC Automotive Technology Program gave him the knowledge, experience, and confidence to become a great automotive technician – enabling him to achieve his goals and build his dream career. For more stories of success at LMC, visit www.losmedanos.edu/successstories.

CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

FEATURE

Employers reach out to LMC for their workforce needs by David Wahl Today, more than 600,000 jobs, most of them technical, are going unfilled across the nation. Business and industry are seeking both tried-and-true and innovative workforce development strategies to develop highly skilled technical workers with the right capabilities. Let us share four examples of how employers can and do access technical training and education for their own workforce needs.

Dow apprenticeship program uses LMC to build its future workforce In 2015, The Dow Chemical Company launched a U.S. Apprenticeship Pilot Program at various Dow sites across the nation – including its Pittsburg site – utilizing LMC flagship manufacturing programs, Process Technology (PTEC) and Electrical & Instrumentation Technology (ETEC). Each spring, the Apprenticeship program offers local graduating high school seniors the opportunity to gain three years of world-class training and paid, on-the-job experience while earning a two-year associate degree. “Apprenticeship programs provide an opportunity for the public and private sectors to partner in a meaningful way and to prepare the next generation of Americans for tomorrow’s high-skilled, high-paying advanced manufacturing careers,” said Andrew N. Liveris, Chairman & CEO, The Dow Chemical Company. Today 87 percent of apprentices are employed after completing their programs and the average starting wage for apprenticeship graduates is over $50,000 per year. In general, Dow and LMC seek candidates with a passion for complex, high-tech work in a modern manufacturing setting. Successful candidates will possess: mechanical aptitude, critical thinking capabilities, strong interpersonal skills, personal responsibility, a proven ability to work well within a team, and the willingness and ability to learn.

BART contracts for transit worker technical training Employers with training needs for their current workforce can contract with LMC for specialized training programs to suit their industry. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is contracting with Los Medanos College in an innovative program, funded in part by a grant from the Federal Transit Administration, to train for careers in the field of transit. BART will contract for instruction equaling 22 credit units over three semesters for five current BART employees. Recruitment to fill the remaining 20 spaces will begin in the spring of 2016. BART and the College will recruit those who: are 18 of age or older, receive public assistance funds, meet lower income level guidelines, are veterans or spouses of veterans, reside in identified low income areas, are female, reside in high unemployment area, and are minorities. The project, dubbed the Transit Career Ladders Training Program (TCLT), is designed to meet the growing needs of the transit workforce by providing training access for traditionally under-represented individuals. The project will feature a “summer bridge” program designed to prepare transit and manufacturing students for the rigors of technical instruction where math and English skills are key to success. For information about the TCLT program, visit www.losmedanos.edu/ETEC or www.bart.gov/training. Employers who want information about customized training for current employees can contact Ruth Goodin, Interim Dean of Institutional Equity & Advancement, 925-473-7413, rgoodin@losmedanos.edu.

Employers with training needs for their current workforce can contract with LMC for specialized training programs to suit their industry.

Employers seeking to establish their own college-based Registered Apprenticeship can find out more by contacting Dave Wahl, LMC Workforce & Economic Development Manager, 925-473-7415, dwahl@losmedanos.edu.

Today 87 percent of apprentices are employed after completing their programs and the average starting wage for apprenticeship graduates is over $50,000 per year.

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LMC Student Spotlight Chris Franzel, ETEC intern for SF Water: “My internship at SF Water has been one of the most helpful experiences I have had. With an internship, I have been able to advance my knowledge of various products, and how to use them. The more you know and the more you have worked with can really help your chances in finding employment. I also have learned a lot working with the team at SF Water and appreciate that they have allowed me this opportunity to get started in a new career.

Internships bridge the gap between job training and employment Internships are in high demand, and employers are looking to LMC to develop these work-based learning experiences. San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC)/SF Water looked to LMC to hire interns at their southeast water treatment plant. “Building pathways for Instrumentation Technicians in the water/wastewater industry is critical for operational reliability now and in the future. Internships are a practical way for students to apply their learning in the field and gain valuable experience that will qualify them to apply for jobs in the industry,” says Catherine Curtis, BAYWORK Steering Committee and Workforce Reliability Manager at SFPUC. Bob Muller, L&D Training Department Supervisor at Shell Martinez Refinery explains his enthusiasm for LMC’s intern program, “We recently completed a successful Operator Internship program where several PTEC students from LMC spent four weeks working with our production shift teams and day staff learning firsthand what it’s like to be a process operator at our site. This internship led to the hiring of four permanent Process Operators. We’ve been very pleased with the quality of the new hires we’ve received from the PTEC program over the past several years. Keep up the good work…” There are many exciting career opportunities in the advanced manufacturing field, and internships are a win-win for both the employer and the student.

For more information about industry internships and LMC contact Tara Sanders, Community Partnership Liaison, 925-473-7417, tarasanders@losmedanos.edu, or visit www.losmedanos.edu/cwee.

There are many exciting career opportunities in the advanced manufacturing field, and internships are a win-win for both the employer and the student.

LG partners with LMC for appliance technicians Another example of serving the workforce needs of industry can be found in LMC’s Appliance Service Technology Program. LG Electronics, an innovative industry leader in the world of electronics, is supporting training at LMC that focuses on their line of state-of-the-art household appliances. LG is providing some of their latest appliances for LMC students to work on in their training classes, along with curriculum materials, training aids, specialty tools and repair parts. LG’s training experts are sharing their knowledge through technical training to LMC’s instructors. LG is providing training sessions at the College for current LG technicians in the field, and LMC’s appliance service technology students will have the opportunity to participate. Len Price, chair and faculty of the LMC program explained, “LG is one of the most supportive companies for service technicians in the field. Being able to work with this industry leader is an honor and a privilege for LMC. Their product is up there amongst top-of-the-line products currently available. LG is providing a wide variety of appliances for students to practice on including refrigerators, ranges and ovens, microwave ovens, dishwashers, and clothing washers and dryers.”

For more information about LMC’s Appliance Service Technology Program, visit www.losmedanos.edu/appliance or contact Len Price, Program Chair, 925-473-7737, lprice@losmedanos.edu.

Use this QR code to access more information using your smart phone.

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LG is providing training sessions at the College for current LG technicians in the field, and LMC’s appliance service technology students will have the opportunity to participate.

CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

FEATURE

Be a STEM Success @ LMC! We’ll help you every step of the way

STEM students from LMC's Team Engineering Tech are headed to NASA to test their experimental equipment for getting core samples from asteroids.

by Nicole Trager Are you interested in an exciting career of discovery and exploration? Do you like solving problems, working in diverse teams, and innovating ways to make positive impacts on the world? Then come join the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Program at Los Medanos College! Studying a STEM discipline at LMC will prepare you for a fascinating career in some of the fastest growing fields, such as biomedical engineering and information technology. The College offers courses in diverse STEM disciplines including biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electrical and instrumentation technology (ETEC), math, physics and process technology (PTEC). Many students enter the workforce after earning associate degrees or certificates at LMC, and many continue their studies to earn bachelor’s and advanced degrees at 4-year colleges and universities across the country. STEM fields have some of the highest projected job growth through the next decade, making these disciplines an incredible choice for a robust future career. Los Medanos College is located within one of the largest tech hubs in the world, providing students with spectacular opportunities to be part of an

exciting, innovative environment. Students are encouraged to build valuable professional networks and seek opportunities to learn from local industry leaders. Many gain experience at world-renowned companies and research centers.

Learn Like a Pro LMC is preparing the next generation of STEM leaders by providing students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce, as well as supporting them along their journey. Courses are taught by talented, dedicated instructors who provide students a solid foundation in their area of study. Students gain handson experience working with modern equipment and develop the technical tools enabling them to succeed in their future careers. LMC was awarded a Department of Education grant (HSI STEM) that supported the expansion of STEM course sections, the opening of a new laboratory facility at the Brentwood Center, and a revision of curriculum utilizing new cutting-edge equipment. Many of the College’s STEM courses include curriculum featuring student-driven research projects. These learning experiences prepare students for future study and gives them a more realistic representation of what it means to be a professional in their field of choice. LMC is one of thirty-eight colleges nationwide – and only one of two in California – that participate as a partner institution in the Community College Undergraduate Research Initiative (CCURI). CCURI supports highly engaging learning experiences by providing valuable resources, such as research supplies, faculty professional development, and fully-funded opportunities for students to travel and present their research at regional conferences. STEM students also have an opportunity to present their results from

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classroom research experiences, internships, and other opportunities during LMC’s annual student research symposium held on campus.

At LMC, you can join our supportive team When you enroll as a STEM student at LMC, you join a network of supportive individuals who are here to help you achieve your goals. The College has talented counselors to help students develop education plans, free tutoring for numerous STEM courses, as well as career, transfer, and financial aid services available to all students. Los Medanos College was awarded a competitive National Science Foundation (NSF) S-STEM grant, providing scholarships and other STEM support services to STEM students, such as mentoring, college visits and career events. In conjunction, LMC’s incredible MESA (Math Engineering Science Achievement) Program provides ongoing support services for our STEM students. The MESA Center provides a welcoming, collaborative environment for students to study, work on computers, receive tutoring, meet with faculty, and network with industry professionals during the invited speaker series. Coordinating all aspects of this program is the MESA Director, who informs all of LMC’s STEM students about campus events and services as well as exciting career opportunities and internships. Visit Los Medanos College today and start building your pathway toward future STEM success!

For more information: http://www.losmedanos.edu/stem

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A Head’s Up on Financial Aid

FEATURE

Headache-saving changes are coming by Naomi Sheehan

their applications with new income information, cutting down the often rigorous federal verification process.

Changes are coming to the financial aid process that will make it easier to apply for help and plan ahead for college.

The FAFSA is far less of a headache than it used to be. Once upon a time (not so long ago), filing for financial aid involved a 10page workbook and poring over your family’s paper documents. Today, less than one-half of one percent of applicants fill out the paper version.

Beginning October 1, 2016, students will be able to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2017-18 year. This pushes the application date up by several months from the current January 1 opening date. Students will also be able to use tax information from two years earlier.

Now an online form at www.fafsa.ed.gov, many of the application’s 108 questions are auto-populated using data already on-file with the government through the IRS. According to the Education Department, this has cut the filing time down to about 20 minutes on average.

Why is this important? Filling out a FAFSA is the first step in getting federal money, including Pell Grants, student loans, and a work-study job at your college. The information on your FAFSA is also used by colleges, state governments, and others to determine if you qualify for some other types of financial aid or scholarships. Nearly 20 million FAFSA filers get access to federal grants and loans each year – the vast majority of American college students. Yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.

How to apply Complete a FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. After filing, you will be sent a report on your eligibility for the Pell Grant and the amount you can expect to receive. If you are seeking a loan, visit www.losmedanos.edu/ financialaid/ for more information on how to complete an application. Questions? Contact the LMC financial aid experts for advice: finaidoffice@losmedanos.edu,

925-473-7525

The biggest mistake you can make with federal aid is assuming you don’t qualify – so you should apply even if you don’t think you’ll be eligible. Many students qualify for the Pell Grant, which is money that you do not have to pay back. Students can also access loans, which do have to be repaid, but at lower interest rates than many private lenders offer.

More time to weigh options By applying in October instead of January, students will find out earlier if they are eligible for aid, giving them time to consider college costs and weigh their options for multiple schools. The convenience of using so-called “prior-prioryear” tax data also makes it easier for students to get college applications in before many scholarship deadlines, which are frequently set in January and February. This widened window of time will enable families to determine the true costs of going to school once financial aid is factored in.

Streamlined process The changes simplify the FAFSA significantly. Students who apply early won’t have to update

Much of the FAFSA online form is automatically filled using IRS data, cutting the filing time down to 20 minutes.

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CareerFocus I Summer/Fall 2016

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GUIDE TO CAREERS

Career Focus A to Z

Los Medanos College LMC Degrees & Certificates

Include

American Sign Language

College Skills Certificate

The skills you need to get an entry-level job or for additional specialization

College Skills Certificate in American Sign Language

Certificate of Achievement

Expanded certificate with additional knowledge and skills to help you move up

Associate of Arts/ Science Degree

Depending on your major, this may provide the coursework you need for your career and/or for transfer to a four-year college

Associate of Arts/ Science Degree for Transfer

The course work you need to transfer to a four-year college

Accounting Certificate of Achievement in Accounting Associate of Science Degree in Accounting Accounting positions in many types of organizations including accounting/CPA firms, small businesses, large corporations, banks, hospitals, schools systems and government agencies preparing financial statements, balance sheets and tax returns. Transfer to four-year university for a B.S. in Accounting. Bookkeeping, Accounting and Auditing Clerks: $20.65/hour Accountant or Auditor: $32.93/hour Tax Preparers: $20.09/hour Payroll and Time Keeping Clerks: $22.17/hour

Administration of Justice College Skills Certificate in Basic Law Enforcement Academy Module 1 Certificate of Achievement in Administration of Justice Certificate of Achievement in Basic Law Enforcement Academy Intensive Certificate of Achievement in Basic Law Enforcement Academy Intermediate Certificate of Achievement in Basic Law Enforcement Academy Advanced Certificate of Achievement in Criminal Investigations Certificate of Achievement in Criminal Law Associate in Science Degree for Transfer in Administration of Justice Employment in a variety of local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, and security fields as a police officer, deputy sheriff, county detention officer, state trooper, intensive probation/parole surveillance officer, correctional officer and loss prevention specialist. Law enforcement agencies require additional training and certificates. Transfer to a four-year university for a B.S. in Criminal Justice. Detectives and Criminal Investigators: $41.27/hour Police Patrol Officer: $45.66/hour Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists: $42.80/hour Criminal Investigators and Special Agents: $41.27/hour

Air Conditioning/Refrigeration College Skills Certificate in Appliance Service Technology; Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Employment with firms that specialize in installation, servicing and repair of heating and cooling systems in homes, offices and commercial buildings; selfemployment. The program prepares you for employment with HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) firms at the residential, commercial and industrial levels. Leads to apprenticeships. Maintenance and Repair Workers: $17.31/hour Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers: $24.94/hour

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A person who facilitates communication between hearing and hearing-impaired persons through interpretation into a signed language, or transliteration of a language into a visual and/or phonemic code by an oral interpreter, a signed language interpreter or cued speech interpreter. Interpreters and Translators: $23.72/hour

Anthropology Associate of Science Degree in Anthropology Anthropologists research, evaluate, and establish public policy concerning the origins of humans; their physical, social, linguistic, and cultural development, and their behavior, as well as the cultures, organizations, and institutions they have created. (A paleoanthropologist studies prehistoric humans. A social anthropologist studies living societies.) Many aspiring anthropologists work as assistants doing ground-level research and writing surveys before they have advanced degrees. LMC anthropology courses are the foundation for four-year college studies in anthropology. Anthropologists and Archeologists: $29.80/hour Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, College: $34.51/hour

Appliance Service Technology College Skills Certificate in Electrical Appliance Technician College Skills Certificate in Refrigeration Technician Certificate of Achievement in Appliance Technician I Certificate of Achievement in Appliance Technician II Associate of Science Degree in Appliance Service Technology Employment with a small or large business as a repair and service technician for home appliances such as icemakers, freezers, refrigerators, washers and dryers; self-employment. Home Appliance Repairer: $17.43/hour

Art Certificate of Achievement in Graphic Communications Associate of Arts Degree in Graphic Communications Associate of Arts Degree in Fine Arts Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Art History Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Studio Arts Graphic communications: work in entry-level graphic communication or these courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in graphic communications. Graphic design is the applied art of arranging image and text to communicate a message. It may be applied in any media, such as print, digital media, motion pictures, animation, product decoration, packaging and signs. Fine art: work as an entry-level artist or these courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in Art. Fine artists create original art. They specialize in one or two art forms, such as painting, illustrating, sketching, sculpting, printmaking and restoring. Graphic Designer: $23.47/hour Commercial and Industrial Designer: $28.42/hour Web Developer: $30.78/hour

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Astronomy A bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in astronomy and astrophysics can lead to a variety of career options. Traditional career paths include those of astronomer, scientist, technician, engineer and relevant management positions. Although LMC does not offer an astronomy degree, courses at LMC prepare you for advanced studies at major universities. Atmospheric and Space Scientist: $45.71/hour Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Postsecondary Teachers: $34.85/hour

Automotive Technology College Skills Certificate in Smog Technician Specialist College Skills Certificate in Air Conditioning Specialist College Skills Certificate in Transmission Specialist College Skills Certificate in Engine Performance College Skills Certificate in Engine Repair & Machining Specialist College Skills Certificate in Automotive Chassis Specialist Certificate of Achievement in Automotive Technology Associate of Science Degree in Automotive Technology Employment as automotive service technicians in dealerships, privately owned garages and repair shops. Work includes diagnosing and repairing automobiles; self-employment. Graduates should be prepared to take the ASE exam. Automotive Specialty Technicians and Mechanics: $20.75/hour Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanic: $20.75/hour Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists: $26.77/hour

Chemistry Associate of Science Degree in Chemistry Prepares students for entry-level positions in the biochemistry, industrial chemical industry. Works with equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of industrial products. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in various chemistry fields. Chemists: $36.82/hour Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour

Child Development Biological Science Associate of Science Degree in Biological Science Train to be a lab technician in the market of biotechnology. Assist biological and medical scientists in laboratories. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, make observations, and calculations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food and drugs. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in various biology fields. Biological Technicians: $24.32/hour Life Scientists, Biologists: $42.40/hour

Business Certificate of Achievement in Office Administration Certificate of Achievement in Retail Management Certificate of Achievement in Small Business Operations Associate of Science Degree in Small Business Operations Associate of Science Degree in Office Administration Associate in Science for Transfer in Business Administration Employment with small and large businesses, and government agencies in administrative support positions requiring knowledge of software applications, office management, organizational principles, basic financial management and electronic presentations. Administrative office jobs in medical and other health care-related offices requiring knowledge of medical terminology, medical coding, billing and insurance. Employment as a medical language specialist to interpret and transcribe dictation by physicians and other health care professionals. Starting a small business by learning entrepreneurial skills. A career in retail management. Transfer to a four-year college for a degree in business, business management, finance, or marketing. Tax Preparers: $20.09/hour Personal Financial Advisor: $38.45/hour

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College Skills Certificate in Assistant Teacher College Skills Certificate in Associate Teacher College Skills Certificate in Specialization: Infant Toddler Care College Skills Certificate in Specialization: Curriculum in Early Childhood Education College Skills Certificate in Specialization: Special Needs Care & Education College Skills Certificate in Specialization: Site Supervisor/Program Director College Skills Certificate in Specialization: School Age Child Care College Skills Certificate in School-Age Development and Education College Skills Certificate in School-Age Associate Teacher Certificate of Achievement in Child Development Associate in Science for Transfer in Early Childhood Education Employment working with children in settings such as day care centers, nursery schools and Head Start programs. With your AS degree, you qualify for positions such as assistant teacher, group supervisor, head teacher or director. Transfer to a four-year college for a degree in education or in early childhood development. Preschool Teacher, Except Special Education: $15.44/hour Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assistant: $14.30/hour Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School: $27.05

Communication Studies Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Communication Studies This programis designed to prepare students to transfer and study at a California State University. Students will complete lower division courses in public speaking, argumentation, intercultural and interpersonal communications, and have their choice of preparing for a more traditional degree in communication studies or preparation for a degree in communications with an emphasis in journalism. Editor: $24.89/hour Reporter: $18.27/hour Technical Writer: $40.54hour Public Relations Specialist: $31.92/hour Training and Development Specialist: $36.68/hour Advertising and Promotions Manager: $44.51/hour

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Emergency Medical Services College Skills Certificate in Emergency Medical Services College Skills Certificate in Emergency Medical Services Recertification Can lead to employment in private emergency medical or ambulance services, fire departments, and hospitals where life-saving skills are required. Emergency Medical Technician: $16.09/hour

Engineering Associate of Science Degree in Engineering Position as a civil, electrical or mechanical engineering technician. Transfer to a four-year degree program in various engineering fields.

Computer Science/Computer Networking College Skills Certificate in Core Competencies College Skills Certificate in Foundation College Skills Certificate in Game Design College Skills Certificate in PC Repair Technician (A+ Certification) College Skills Certificate in Web Design Certificate of Achievement in Computer Support Specialist (Advanced) Certificate of Achievement in Computer Support Specialist (Basic) Certificate of Achievement in Microcomputer Systems Specialist Certificate of Achievement in Networking and Security (Advanced) Certificate of Achievement in Networking and Security (Basic) Associate of Science Degree in Computer Support Specialist Associate of Science Degree in Networking and Security Associate in Science for Transfer Degree in Computer Science Employment as an applications specialist, microcomputer service technician, help desk specialist, computer operator, computer security specialist, network specialist, database specialist with organizations such as telephone companies, television stations, schools and colleges, Internet providers and professional offices. Computer User Support Specialist: $28.16/hour Computer Network Support Specialist: $35.11/hour Database Administrators: $44.75/hour

Engineering technicians solve technical problems. Some work in quality control. They look over products, do tests, and collect data. In manufacturing they may help in design, development, or production. Most engineering technicians specialize in certain areas: civil engineering technicians and electrical and electronics engineering technicians. Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians: $31.91/hour Electrical Engineers: $52.41/hour Industrial Engineers: $45.58/hour

English Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in English Teach or instruct courses other than those that normally lead to an occupational objective or degree. Courses may include self-improvement, non-vocational, and nonacademic subjects. Teaching may or may not take place in a traditional educational institution. These courses can be the foundation for four-year university studies in English, and/or a career as a writer. English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour

Fire Academy

Drama

College Skills Certificate in Basic Fire Academy Certificate of Achievement in Fire Academy

Associate of Arts Degree in Acting Associate of Arts Degree for Transfer in Theatre Arts

Control and extinguish municipal fires, protect life and property and conduct rescue efforts. Control and suppress fires in forests or vacant public land.

Play a part in stage, television, radio, video, or motion picture productions for entertainment, information or instruction. Interpret serious or comic roles by speech, gesture, and body movement to entertain or inform audience. May dance and sing. May play parts in television commercials. Work in various areas of performing arts and transfer to a four-year degree program in theater.

Municipal Firefighter $36.08/hour Forest Firefighter $36.08/hour

Actors: $14.48/hour Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour

Economics Economists study how society distributes resources, such as land, labor, raw materials, and machinery, to produce goods and services. They conduct research, collect and analyze data, monitor economic trends and develop forecasts. They research issues such as energy costs, inflation, interest rates, exchange rates, business cycles, taxes or employment levels. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in various economic fields.

Fire Technology College Skills Certificate in Fire Prevention College Skills Certificate in Fire Protection Certificate of Achievement in Fire Technology Associate of Science Degree in Fire Technology Fire science technology is an applied science in the control and prevention of fire, the handling of hazardous materials, investigation, rescue operations, security and safety. Fire Prevention and Protection Engineer $50.41/hour Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention Supervisor $56.55/hour

Economics Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour Economists: $46.83/hour

Electrical/Instrumentation Technology Certificate of Achievement in Electrical Technology Certificate of Achievement in Instrumentation Technology Associate of Science Degree in Electrical Technology Associate of Science Degree in Instrumentation Technology Employment installing and maintaining electrical/electronic systems and instrumentation in industrial facilities. In-house maintenance departments at manufacturing facilities also offer job opportunities. Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians: $32.85/hour Electrical and Electronic Repairer, Commercial and Industrial Equipment: $31.91/hour Electricians: $31.66/hour

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History Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in History Prepares students for jobs in research, and analysis in such places as government and other institutions. Work with newspapers, photographers, interview, films and manuscripts. Historians: $34.98/hour History Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour

Journalism Associate of Arts Degree in Journalism Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Journalism Careers in journalism include writers and editors, technical writers and editors, reporters and correspondents, advertising, public relations and publications designer. Work in an entry-level position in media or transfer to a four-year degree program in journalism. Editors: $24.89/hour Court Reporter: $33.73/hour Photographer: $14.91hour

Mathematics Associate in Science Degree for Transfer in Mathematics

Kinesiology-Physical Education Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Kinesiology The Associate in Arts in Kinesiology for Transfer at Los Medanos College prepares students to transfer into a curriculum at a 4-year institution to pursue a baccalaureate degree in kinesiology or physical education. This major will introduce students to many areas of study including health and fitness, physical education, therapeutic/sport medicine, and coaching sport instruction. Curriculum in this degree will also provide coursework necessary to prepare students for national certifications in the health/fitness industry such as personal training, group fitness instructor, and lifestyle/weight management consultant. Physical Therapist: $45.96/hour Coach or Scout: $24.12/hour Athletic Trainer: $24.00/hour Fitness Trainer: $24.12/hour

Liberal Arts Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts: Arts and Humanities Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts: Behavioral Science and Social Science Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts: Math and Science These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in various programs.

Entry-level positions in government agencies such as the census office. Compile and compute data according to statistical formulas for use in statistical studies. May perform actuarial computations and compile charts and graphs for use by actuaries. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in mathematics. Mathematical Technicians: $30.76/hour Mathematicians: $57.40/hour

Music Certificate of Achievement in Commercial Music-Business Management Certificate of Achievement in Commercial Music-Performance Certificate of Achievement in Commercial Music-Pedagogy Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Music Associate of Arts Degree in Music Become a professional musician, conductor, concert artist, studio musician, arranger, composer, accompanist, music teacher, private instructor or communitybased music such as minister of music, organist or choir director. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in music. Commercial music careers include instrument sales, instrument repair, pop singer, orchestration, arranger, music publisher, music activities producer, recording engineer, music therapist, music librarian, music critic, music software technician and radio music director.

Education Administrator, Postsecondary: $49.17/hour

Entry-level positions in a wide variety of areas; Broad Median Annual Salary: $34,500 Music Directors and Composers: $21.00/hour

Management and Supervision

Nursing

Certificate of Achievement in Management and Supervision Associate of Science Degree in Management and Supervision

Certificate of Achievement in Vocational Nursing Associate of Science Degree in Registered Nursing

The program is designed to train students for entry into supervisory, team-leader and management positions. Transfer to a four-year institution for a degree in business administration.

Registered Nurse; Employment as a registered nurse (RN) in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, physiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; office or other health care agencies. RNs evaluate, plan, implement and document nursing care for an assigned patient population. LVN to RN degree program is offered for those who wish to upgrade to an RN. Transfer to a 4-year university for a BSN to expand your career opportunities in nursing education or administration. Licensing required.

First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Retail Sales Workers: $17.65/hour General Operations Managers: $51.35/hour

Licensed Vocational Nurse; Employment as a vocational nurse (LVN) in hospitals, rehabilitation/long term/home health facilities, clinics, nursing homes, and physiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; offices. An LVN administers nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse by participating in the delivery and evaluation of patient care, and ensuring the health, comfort, and safety of patients. Licensure required. Registered Nurse: $57.46/hour Licensed Vocational Nurse: $28.36/hour

Philosophy Develop critical thinking skills, argument skills, communication skills, information management, design and planning skills, research and investigation skills, management and administration skills. These courses can be the foundation for advanced studies at major universities. Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour

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Sociology Associate in Science Degree for Transfer in Sociology Can work in a variety of fields and assist programs or groups and organizations such as government agencies in urban development and planning. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in sociology. Sociologists: $38.54/hour

Travel Marketing College Skills Certificate in Cruise Specialist College Skills Certificate in Home-Based Travel Specialist College Skills Certificate in Travel Marketing Certificate of Achievement in Travel Marketing Associate of Science Degree in Travel Marketing

Physics Associate in Science Degree for Transfer in Physics These courses at LMC can be the foundation for advanced studies at four-year universities. Physicists find employment in an astounding variety of settings after earning their degrees â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including government-funded labs, Wall Street, medical physics facilities, and high tech industries, just to name a few. The majority of graduates at all degree levels find employment in the private sector â&#x20AC;&#x201C; using their engineering and computer science skills to do analysis, write code, and develop products, or, in the case of Ph.D.s, doing physics research to develop new processes and products for the market. Physics Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour Physicists: $47.85/hour

Political Science Become a political campaign advisor, lobbyist, community outreach, community development and pre-law. These courses at LMC can be the foundation for advanced studies at major universities.

Employment with travel agencies, online travel agencies, home-based travel agencies, airlines, tour companies, and cruise lines to assist clients with planning and making leisure and corporate travel reservations. Travel Agent: $17.16/hour Market Research Analyst and Marketing Specialist: $34.36/hour

Welding College Skills Certificate in Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate of Achievement in Welding Technology Associate of Science Degree in Welding Technology Employment as a certified welder using oxy-acetylene welding, shielded-metal arc welding, TIG, MIG, flux-cored arc welding and metal cutting in industries such as petrochemical, railroad, construction, transportation, plant maintenance, bridge fabrication, ornamental iron, machining, aerospace, boiler-making, ship repair, fabricated metal products and transportation equipment manufacturing. Welders, Cutters and Welder Fitters: $22.01/hour Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Settlers Operators, and Tenders: $20.66/hour

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary: $34.51/hour Political Scientists: $48.61/hour

Process Technology Certificate of Achievement in Process Technology Associate of Science Degree in Process Technology Process technicians are skilled plant operators who safely run refineries and chemical plants. Examples of work includes the processing of samples, monitoring equipment, and solving problems that arise in processing plants. Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers: $40.23/hour Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders: $24.13/hour

Psychology Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer in Psychology Monitor patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physical and emotional well-being and report to medical staff. May participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs. Assist professionals from a wide variety of fields such as psychology, rehabilitation, or social work, to provide client services, as well as support for families. May assist clients in identifying available benefits and social and community services, and help clients obtain them. May assist social workers with developing, organizing and conducting programs to prevent and resolve problems relevant to substance abuse, human relationships, rehabilitation, or adult daycare. These courses can be the foundation for four-year college studies in psychology. Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists: $35.99/hour

World Languages

Recording Arts

College Skills Certificate in American Sign Language College Skills Certificate in Cultural Competence College Skills Certificate in Spanish

Certificate of Achievement in Recording Arts Associate of Arts Degree in Recording Arts Become an audio engineer, producer other recording arts professional. LMC prepares your for entry-level position in the recording arts industry. Audio/Video Technician: $21.26/hour Sound Engineer Technician: $24.94/hour

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