The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Open House will take place on Wednesday, February 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the William N. Pennington Applied Technology Center. This event provides an opportunity for prospective students to explore various programs offered by TMCC’s Academic Divisions, including Automotive, Diesel, Architecture, Dental Assisting, Radiologic Technology, Culinary, Graphic Arts, and more.
Kyle Cassinelli, Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education Programs at TMCC, emphasized the impact of seeing facilities and interacting with faculty during the open house. “Many visitors are amazed by what they discover inside the Applied Technology Center and across TMCC’s campuses,” he said. Cassinelli also highlighted the importance of exploring programs tied to in-demand careers like Advanced Manufacturing, Health and Public Safety, Information Technology, Business, and Hospitality.
CTE at TMCC not only prepares students for immediate workforce entry but also lays a foundation for further education. For instance, through a partnership with Nevada State University (NSU), Graphic Arts and Media Technology students can complete most of their Bachelor of Arts in Visual Media degree while remaining at TMCC before finishing at NSU. Additionally, associate degree recipients from TMCC’s Hospitality program can transfer seamlessly to UNLV’s renowned Hospitality Management bachelor’s program.
Cassinelli noted that instructors are professionals who bring real-world experience into classrooms. “TMCC’s state-of-the-art facilities are complemented by expert instructors who bring real-world experience to the classroom,” he said.
Students have access to work-based learning opportunities such as internships or apprenticeships through partnerships with local agencies. For example, TMCC’s Advanced Manufacturing program partners with regional manufacturers for paid apprenticeships.
“These hands-on experiences are a cornerstone of CTE,” Cassinelli explained.
Cassinelli also remarked on the long-term benefits of CTE training: “The most significant outcome of CTE is that every student who spends a little time in a CTE learning environment develops practical transferable skills they can carry for life.”
Prospective attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance for more information about the CTE Open House.
