This content was published: February 6, 2019. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
CTE programs take center stage in Salem to educate leaders on funding impacts
Photos and story by James Hill
Last week, the Oregon State Legislature got an up close look at the positive impacts of career-technical education (CTE) programs.
That’s a great thing because the Community College Support Fund budget for 2019-21 is up for debate among senators and representatives alike during the 2019 session. Right now, the state’s 17 community colleges are asking for $787 million to properly fund student support services and CTE programs to meet the needs of industry. But in the governor’s recommended budget, community colleges will receive only $543 million, causing massive cuts and big tuition hikes.
PCC’s “Day at the Capitol”
On Tuesday, March 12, the college is hosting its annual event to advocate for full funding of community colleges.
As PCC seeks funding from the Oregon Legislature this session, it is especially important for the voices of students and staff to be heard.
The “Day at the Capitol” is that chance to tell the “PCC story” to legislators and inspire them to invest in higher education. The PCC community is welcome!
That’s why the Feb. 1 CTE Day was so important. Along with other college students and faculty, PCC’s Aviation Science student Kendra Uhl was in the Capitol Building talking with legislators about how her program has positively impacted her life and advocate for better funding.
“It’s a really exciting and in-depth program,” she said. “I’m looking forward to getting a career right after graduation due to the demand, working as a corporate pilot or for the airlines.”
Her flight instructor, Larry Altree, agreed.
“It’s a really great time to get into the Aviation Science Program to be a pilot,” he said. “Demand for pilots is as good as it has ever been and will continue to be good.”
In addition to the college’s Aviation Science and Aviation Maintenance programs, Russ Dunnington and his Diesel Service Technology faculty and partners were there as well. They had a blast during CTE Day, showing off their new custom Freightliner rig that was purchased as part of an innovative partnership with McCoy Freightliner. Dunnington said there’s a shortage of technicians in the industry, making PCC critical in filling the jobs with qualified workers.
Lastly, the Auto Collision Repair Program had their virtual reality training computer present for Capitol staff and legislators to try their hand at painting cars. Faculty Tony Yorba was impressed by the interest and said the program creates a fun environment for students.
“The best part of auto collision repair is getting to work with cars in a shop,” Yorba said. “When students graduate the work pays really well and you get to be creative. Plus, it’s fun.”
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »