WNC Automotive instructor Randy Sharp discusses a piece of diagnostic equipment with the class.
Choosing a professional career that not only suits a student’s interest but also provides stable employment opportunities is one of the biggest challenges for any college student today.
Introductory classes offered this fall at Western Nevada College Fallon help solve that dilemma by offering courses in a variety of fields of study. Business, elementary education, computer graphics, information systems, human resources management, counseling, social work, special education and criminal justice are just some of the areas they can choose to study.
The semester begins in 10 days.
In addition, students can learn job skills in hands-on automotive mechanics and welding courses at the Fallon Campus. They can also take online offerings in Electronics Technology that include practice in soldering, a high demand skill in the region.
They can aim toward an associate degree and also work toward transfer to a university, while saving money and time.
In addition, WNC will offer two upper division courses in management for those who qualify to take junior or senior level college courses. They will support students who are in WNC’s Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management program, or students who attend other colleges or universities.
“I am excited to be teaching these business transfer classes at the Fallon Campus,” said Lori Tiede, a longtime WNC administrator who is now the Fallon Campus manager. “Students will have the opportunity to learn global management skills that can be used anywhere.”
“We as counselors and Student Services personnel are here to assist and encourage students as they begin,” added Ron Marrujo, coordinator of Rural Student Services, “We help take the mystery out of how college works and walk with students through the academic and financial steps that lead to realizing their goals and dreams. I love our college motto telling students to ‘Start Here, Go Anywhere’ because it accurately portrays the hope and the possibilities we as a college can offer the students in our service area.
Classes begin Aug. 25 and include the following:
Introduction to Social Work (SW 101): Acquaints students with this helping profession through a historical context. Values, human diversity, analysis of social problem solving, and fields of practice are emphasized. Daniel Jardine’s class meet 7- 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays.
“Western’s multiple offerings in social work provide the first steps toward a bachelor’s degree in the field,” said Liberal Arts Division Director Scott Morrison, noting that SW 101, 230 and 250 are offered on multiple campuses.
“These courses provide the groundwork for students to seamlessly enter the upper-division curriculum provided at the UNR School of Social Work. This program has seen consistent increase in demand and provides a viable alternative for students interested in careers in human services.”
• Introduction to Business (BUS 101): Provides a broad background of the modern business world. It is an important course for students who are considering a business major. Offered 4-6:45 p.m. Wednesdays.
• Introduction to Elementary Education (EDU 201): Meets Monday and Wednesday (4-5:15 p.m.) Introduces students to the foundations of elementary education, as well as current trends and issues in curriculum and instruction, the roles of teachers and issues of diversity. The class includes practical experience, so students must be fingerprinted and need security clearance.
• Introduction to Computer Graphics (GRC 103): Instructor Robert Petersen will introduce the processes involved in the creation and reproduction of graphic design for print and digital media platforms. The class will cover graphic communications history, design theory, software applications, production processes, printing processes and job opportunities. Students will also receive a hands-on overview of graphic design software. Meets Tuesdays, 7-9:45 p.m.
• Introduction to Information Systems (IS 101): Professor Richard Stewart introduces students to the many roles of computers in today’s technology-driven environment. Students will be introduced to Internet and distance education for research work, as well as operating systems, word processing, spreadsheets, databases and basic multi-media. Completion of the course arms students with basic computer survival skills, a better understanding of computer terminology and how to create date using a variety of software.
• Intro to Human Resources Management (MGT 283): Dr. Robert Whitcomb helps students develop an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of business personnel processes at the mid-management level. Students are expected to have taken BUS 101 and MGT 201 or receive the instructor’s consent before enrolling in this course. Meets 4-6:45 p.m. Monday.
• Introduction to Counseling (CPD 117): Students participate in experiential situations such as role-playing and group exercises. Instructor Ashley Leigh will present an overview of basic communication and the foundations of the helping relationship. Meets 4-6:45 p.m. Mondays.
• Introduction to Special Education (EDU 203): The class examines the various types of exceptionalities, and instructor Cindy Nichols will emphasize etiology, physical and educational characteristics. Meets 9-11:45 a.m. Friday.
• Introduction to Criminal Justice (CRJ 101): Students will learn the history, philosophy and functions of the criminal justice system, law enforcement, criminal law and constitutional rights as they affect system functioning. Kevin Earl’s class meets 7-9:45 p.m. on Mondays.
The college offers a number of hands-on technology classes, on campus and online.
• Welding I (Welding 211): Students will be introduced to welding through safety procedures, environmental awareness, oxyacetylene welding, cutting, brazing and shielded metal-arc. Through the practice lab, they will develop the skills to produce high-quality gas welds and flame cuts. Instruction also includes proper preparation of equipment for all aspects of oxyacetylene welding and cutting. Shielded metal arc welding skills that students will learn include striking the arc, maintaining proper arc length, adjusting equipment and manipulating the electrode. This introductory course is part of a five-class sequence of welding classes offered by the college.
• Engine Performance I/Fuel & Ignition (AUTO 225): This automotive technology class will study engine-related subsystems that include ignition, fuel, cooling, starting and charging systems. Instruction will prepare students for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.
• Applied Industrial Technology Online Classes: Those seeking skills that can lead to a job in the local industrial and manufacturing industries can complete a series of shorter courses online, in their own timeframe.
AIT 101 focuses on the fundamentals of Industrial Technology.
AIT 102 teaches how to work with measurement tools
AIT 103 introduces machine tool technology
AIT 201 allows students to work in pneumatic power technology.
• Organizational Behavior and Interpersonal Behavior (MGT 323): Prerequisite: admission to the Bachelor of Technology program in Construction Management, or consent of advisor
Examines behavioral influences that affect productivity, organizational effectiveness, and efficiency including: perception, motivation, decision-making, communication, leadership, organizational design, group behavior and coping with stress. Meets Tuesdays, 7-9:45 p.m.
• Changing Environments (MGT 462):
Prerequisite: admission to Bachelor of Technology program in Construction Management, or advisor consent.
Focuses on managing ethically in the changing cultural, economic, political, technological and global environments of business. Meets Thursdays 7-9:45 p.m.