TSTC’s Building Construction Technology Program Expands Opportunities with Night Classes

Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen has introduced a night class option for its Building Construction Technology program, catering to students who balance work and education. This initiative aims to provide greater accessibility for those pursuing careers in construction while managing daytime commitments.

Key Takeaways

• TSTC now offers night classes for the Building Construction Technology program.
• The program is designed for working students, including veterans and those seeking to enhance their skills.
• Instructors emphasize real-world applications and teamwork in their teaching.
• The construction industry in Texas is projected to grow significantly, with competitive salaries for graduates.

Program Overview

The Building Construction Technology program at TSTC is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the construction industry. With the addition of night classes, the program is now more accessible to individuals who may have daytime jobs or other commitments.

Instructors Cecilia Espinosa and Rene Rodriguez lead the night classes, which currently have 15 enrolled students. This smaller class size allows for more personalized instruction and hands-on learning experiences.

Student Experiences

Students like Juan Campillo, an Army veteran and TSTC employee, are taking advantage of this opportunity to further their education. Campillo is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Building Construction Technology, stating, "I enrolled in the program to expand my current skills. I wanted to learn the proper way to use equipment."

Michelle Zarate, another student from Brownsville, shares her positive experience: "The labs are great, and I learned that I need to improve my strength. The instructors are motivating when they explain the importance of teamwork, critical thinking, and communication."

Instructional Approach

The instructors at TSTC emphasize the importance of real-life applications in their teaching. Espinosa often draws from her own work experience to illustrate key concepts, such as the significance of reading blueprints in construction projects. Rodriguez focuses on motivating students during lab sessions, providing constructive feedback to help them improve their work.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Building Construction Technology program can look forward to promising career prospects. According to industry data, first-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers in Texas earn an average annual salary of $67,650. Furthermore, the demand for these positions is expected to grow by 23% in the state through 2030, making this an opportune time to enter the field.

Enrollment Information

TSTC continues to accept registrations for the upcoming spring semester. With the new night class option, more students can pursue their education in building construction technology without sacrificing their current jobs. This flexibility is crucial for those looking to advance their careers in a growing industry.

For more information about the program and registration details, prospective students are encouraged to visit TSTC’s official website.

Sources

• TSTC’s Building Construction Technology program offers night class option | MyRGV.com, MyRGV.com.