OTC offers short-term technical training programs

By Steve Koehler

Ozarks Technical Community College will be offering a number of new short-term technical training programs this summer designed for those people looking for entry-level employment.

The first program will cover basic automotive work in areas ranging from brakes to air conditioning. The classes were chosen by school officials in order to equip students with the training to go to work in the shortest timeframe possible.

Students completing the program will benefit from placement assistance through OTC’s Career Employment Services office and from Transportation Division personnel. There is no guarantee of employment is made or implied.

Shirley Lawler, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, said OTC officials talked with employers and the Missouri Career Center, which serves the local unemployed, about what technical programs are needed in the immediate future.

The automotive courses will run from June 1 through July 23. The courses can be applied later toward an applied science degree. For more information, call 447-8133.

OTC will also offer summer courses in auto body, diesel, computer information technology, early childhood, graphic design, hospitality, and welding.  For more information these programs, call 841-3340.

Kerry Wrinkle, Transportation Division Chair, said when someone finishes the automotive training, the student should be able to work in any tire shop that does alignments as well as be able to install brakes and service air conditioning.

“The course will offer a good mix from working on cars as well as trucks,” Wrinkle said. “With the current economy, people are holding on to their older cars and need them services. Summer coming on people traveling want their car serviced A/C worked on.”

 Steve Koehler is coordinator of publications at Ozarks Technical Community College.