Edvantage - Where the Jobs Are

EdVantageAsheville-Buncombe Technical Community College

EdVantageVolume 2 | Issue 2 | Winter 2009-10

Making a Major Decision: Choosing the Right Career Path

Employer Wanted: Strategies for Landing the Right Job

Paying for College: What You Should Know and Do

Classes Begin Jan 11: Check out abtech.edu/schedule

Where The Jobs Are

Education for High-Demand Careers

A-B Tech’s Federal School Code: 004033

Fill out a FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid

at www.fafsa.ed.gov

Find out how to qualify by visiting the Financial Aid Office at A-B Tech

in the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center or online at

abtech.edu/Student_Services/Financial_Aid, or call 254-1921 Ext. 7520.

College can be affordable. Financial aid helps make it happen.

JobsNOW program provides short-term trainingA-B Tech started classes for its first JobsNOW program – Advanced Customer Service – in November. JobsNOW provides short-term training for occupations where job growth is projected. Programs are designed to be completed in six months or less and include preparation for the North Carolina Career Readiness Certificate; resume writing; and basic computer, interview, and job survival skills. In addition to customer service, upcoming programs will cover Foundations in Culinary, Principles of Business Operations for Entrepreneurs, and Fundamentals of Automated Machinery. Tuition assistance may be available. Call 245-1921, ext. 5834 to learn more.

Project Skill-UP offers training for tobacco farmersThe Economic & Workforce Development/Continuing Education division has received a $40,000 Project Skill-UP grant through the

North Carolina Community College System from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission.

The goal of Project Skill-Up is to provide short-term training and educational financial assistance to people impacted by decreased tobacco production or changes in the tobacco industry in recent years. Call 254-1921, Ext. 5832 for more details.

Grove Park Inn donates to scholarship fundThe Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa and its owner, Sammons Enterprises has donated $20,000 to a scholarship fund for Hospitality Education students at A-B Tech, bringing its total contribution to $60,000 since establishing the fund two years ago.

The scholarships were created in 2007 in honor of Elaine Sammons. Mrs. Sammons had an extensive background in the hotel and hospitality industry. Her husband, Charles, gave generously from the profits of Sammons Enterprises Inc., a conglomerate of insurance, cable television, travel, industrial supply and

bottled-water companies. To learn more about the scholarships, call 254-1921, ext. 232.

Fall enrollment hits 7,500A-B Tech’s fall semester enrollment reached a record high of more than 7,500 curriculum students, a 6.7 percent increase from fall 2008.

“Our students realize that with smaller classes, taught by dedicated instructors, they will receive excellent preparation to be successful,” said Kenet Adamson, Arts and Sciences dean. “Our significantly less expensive tuition in today’s economic environment also helps convince students to choose A-B Tech as a means to reduce the escalating cost of a higher education.”

A-B Tech celebrates 50 yearsFaculty, staff, students and members of the community gathered on the lawn of the Simpson Sdministration Building Sept. 1 to celebrate A-B Tech’s 50th anniversary. The College received proclamations from the City of Asheville and Buncombe and Madison counties, designating Sept. 1, 2009 as Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College Day. A “50 years” sculpture will stand in front of the Simpson Building throughout the 2009-2010 school year.

NEWWhat’s

NEWat A-B Tech

Features

2 Where The Jobs Are: Education for High-Demand Careers

4 Making A Major Decision

6 Employer Wanted: Strategies To Help Land You A Job

7 A-B Tech Programs

10 Getting Enrolled

11 Navigating Student Services

12 Paying for College: What You Should Know and Do

Winter 2009-10EdVantage is published by Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Questions about the programs and services described in this publication should be directed to the A-B Tech Admissions Office at (828) 254-1921, ext. 7576 or 7577.

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Mauney

Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mona Cornwell

Writers . . . . . . . . . . . . Mona Cornwell, Martha Ball

Graphic Designer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Justin Page

Photographers . . . . . . . . . Justin Page, April Sides, Blake Madden Photography

abtech.eduAsheville-Buncombe

Technical Community College Board of Trustees

David Wyatt Chair

Mandy Stone Vice Chair

Tom AlexanderMary Ruth FowlerDoris GiezentannerWilliam A. Hart, Jr.

Dr. Harvey L. Haynes Richard B. Hurley

Kaye A. MyersTalmage PenlandCarol Peterson

Gordon RandolphDr. Joe B. Roberson

Ray SpellsJesse Korth

Student Government Association PresidentJan Scroggs

Secretary

All rights reserved. No part of the material printed may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage retrieval system without the permission of the publisher. 115,000 copies printed at a cost of $.08 each.

The primary accreditor of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College is the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools located at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, telephone 404.679.4500. Inquiries about the College's accreditation status may be directed to this organization.

1 | EdVantage abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

EdVantageVolume 2 | Issue 2

On the cover: Mechanical Engineering Technology Chair Sharon Suess displays prototype parts created with her program’s new 3-D printer.

Feature

Manufacturing jobs are still an integral part of the Western North Carolina economy, and employers are seeking skilled workers, according to Tom Tveidt, former director of research for the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County who recently stepped down to manage his own economic research consulting firm full time.“Manufacturing is at the core of wealth creation for this community. It is a must,” he said. “Manufacturing has more than 18,000 employees, $750 million in local exports and $2.2 billion in gross domestic product. No other industry in the area gets close to that number,” Tveidt said.

Programs at A-B Tech not only offer the training industry employers are looking for, but allow for hands-on training with green initiatives and the latest in technology.

“With the current state of the economy, these occupations are in desperate need of highly qualified, skilled people. Students are better positioned to consider the opportunities that abound in these fields and come to A-B Tech to take the necessary classes that can help launch

Where the Jobs Are:Education for High-Demand Careers

Cutting-edge technology is used to teach students how to produce prototype parts for proof-of-concept, functional test-ing, product mock-ups, and molds with industry standard ABS plastics. Objects can be modeled in hours instead of days.


Spring Semester begins Jan. 11. Check out abtech.edu/schedule. Register now.

a new career for them,” said Dr. Sam Dosumu, Vice President of Instructional Services.

One of those programs, Mechanical Engineering Technology, has a 3-D printer that allows a prototype part to be created within hours instead of days, a tool invaluable to research and development. “With this emerging technology, A-B Tech is on the cutting edge when it comes to training students,” said Sharon Suess, Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Systems Technology chair.

“High-demand, low-enrollment” programs like Mechanical Engineering Technology offer the advantage of small classes with dedicated instructors who provide the latest training to their

students to prepare them for career fields where the job outlook is promising. Limited scholarships are available for new students entering these programs.

Recognizing the ever-increasing popularity and environmental benefits of “going green,” many of the programs incorporate sustainability into the curriculum. Carpentry instructors, for example, teach advanced framing techniques that use less wood and more insulation for more energy-efficient structures. Students also learn natural building techniques that use local, low-energy materials such as straw, mud and even waste products like used tires to construct buildings with less environmental impact.

The healthcare industry also is a major

employer in the community, and A-B Tech’s Medical Assisting program is another high-demand, low-enrollment program. Students in Medical Assisting learn how to perform administrative, clinical, and lab procedures, and find jobs in doctors’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

For more information on these programs and the availability of scholarships, call Dr. Dennis King, Vice President of Student Services, at 254-1921, ext. 140.

Sharon Suess, A-B Tech’s Mechanical Engineering Technology Chair, displays sample parts created by her program’s new 3-D printer. The printer gives students an opportunity to use the latest technology in product design research and development.


High-Demand Career Programs (and their starting salaries)

Carpentry $20,000

Civil Engineering Technology $14-$16/hr.

Construction Management Technology $36,000

Electronics Engineering Technology $32,000

Electrical/Electronics Technology $32,000 (degree) $24,000 (diploma)

Heavy Equipment Technology $25,000 (degree), $20,000 (diploma)

Industrial Systems Technology $28,000

Machining Technology $12-$14/hr

Mechanical Engineering Technology $30,000

Medical Assisting $19,000-$27,000


A complete listing of A-B Tech programs is on pages 7-9.

You’ve made Major

Decision #1 – to go to college. But what about Major Decision #2 – what to study?

Feature

Making A Major Decision



Step 1: Know YourselfChoosing a program starts with discovering and understanding some of your personal traits and characteristics. One way to uncover these characteristics is to use self-assessments. These tools are designed to help identify your interests, what you believe to be your strongest skills, personality type, and values. Self-assessments can also help you understand how your particular traits and characteristics relate to major and career choices. Rather than provide definitive answers, self-assessments increase your self-awareness and some offer research-based career options to consider in support of your goal to make a good program (major) choice.

Links to on-line assessments can be found on A-B Tech’s Career Development Services web page. Simply click on “Students” then “Career Development Services,” then “Career Assessments.”

Current curriculum students, and applicants for the upcoming semester, can receive additional support in making a major/career decision through career counseling on A-B Tech’s Asheville campus. These sessions will help you evaluate options based on a more in-depth exploration of your interests, needs, values, skills, and academic strengths. To schedule your appointment with a Career Counselor, please select “Students” from our home page, then “Career Development Services” and “Schedule An Appointment.”

Helpful TipsTo discover important clues about your interests and characteristics, ask yourself the following questions:

➨ When I am reading a magazine or newspaper, which articles interest me?

➨ When I go to a bookstore, do I spend most of my time in a particular section?

➨ What activities do I most enjoy when I have free time?

➨ What kinds of settings am I most comfortable in?

➨ Which classes do I enjoy the most?

➨ When I look through A-B Tech’s college catalog or catalogs at four-year institutions, which programs are the most interesting to me?

Step 2: Research Your OptionsWhen you’ve determined possible majors/careers of interest, the next step is exploring not only the requirements to enter these programs/occupations, but also the benefits that each occupation would offer you.

Making an informed choice about a major/career includes learning about specific coursework, length of education, certifications or license requirements beyond your degree, location of various job markets, salary ranges, and occupational outlooks among other factors.

The A-B Tech Career Development Services web page has extensive information about major and career exploration. A-B Tech curriculum students can also explore these important dimensions in major/career selection through career counseling.

Helpful Tips ➨ Review the college programs you are considering, including course descriptions of classes required for your program.

➨ Speak with the chairperson of the department about his/her program and the career you are considering.

➨ Do web research.

➨ Do informational interviews with professionals in the field.

➨ Consider volunteering or doing an internship in your field of interest.

➨ Get permission to job shadow someone during the work day.

Making A Major Decision



Feature

6 | EdVantage

Employer Wanted: Strategies to Help You Land A JobSo you’ve finished school

and can’t wait to embark on that career you’ve dreamed of since childhood. Or perhaps you’ve been in the same dead-end job for the past decade and you’re ready for a change. Regardless of whether you’re new to the work world or a veteran with years of experience, the most effective way to look for a job is to use a variety of strategies.

AdvertisementsThe advertised job market includes classified ads, company websites, employer hotlines, job banks and Internet job listings. Although job seekers are often comfortable with using job ads, the process can be slow and frustrating because for every ad, the employer will likely receive multiple applicants.

For workers with more experience or specialization, the advertised job market may be even smaller because employers will often use referrals, or their networks, to find candidates who are qualified. Those who do succeed in finding work by answering ads are job seekers whose resume and cover letter are on target and meet, or exceed, the employers’ requirements. They also likely have solid interviewing skills.

A-B Tech curriculum students can receive assistance with resume, cover letter and interviewing

skills by scheduling their own appointment with a career counselor on the Asheville campus. Please visit www.abtech.edu, select “Students,” “Career Development Services,” then “Schedule An Appointment.” You can also access information under “Career Development Services” for resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies

The Mountain Area JobLink Career Center, located in the Maple building is also a good resource for assistance with your job search and can be accessed at http://buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/JobLink/locations.htm.

The Hidden Job MarketDon’t limit your search to the classifieds. Eighty percent of all positions are filled without employer advertising through a source sometimes referred to as the Hidden Job Market. These jobs are filled by candidates who come to an employer’s attention through employee recommendations, referrals, recruiters, or direct contact with the candidate. For an employer, the advantage is being able to hire people pre-recommended by someone they trust. Take JobStar’s Hidden Job Market quiz at abtech.edu and select Student then Career Development Services and finally Job Search Strategies to see if the Hidden Job Market will help your job search.

The key to the Hidden Job Market is networking. By using your contacts and the people you meet through your contacts, you can learn about positions before they are ever advertised. Check out more details about networking by going to our home page at www.abtech.edu then select “Career Development


AccountingA.A.S. Degree ................................$25,000 – $31,000Careers: Accountant, payroll processor, Bookkeeper I

Certificate Level I...........................$17,000 - $21,000Certificate Level II .........................$17,000 - $21,000Careers: Entry-Level Positions, Promotions within Current Position

Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology

Diploma ...............................................$12/hr – $14/hrCareers: Maintenance Technician, Climate Control Technician, Service Technician, Systems Engineer, Refrigeration Technician, Estimator

Automotive Systems TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................................. $25,000Diploma ............................................................ $20,000 Careers: General Automotive Technician, Specialized Technician, Shop Supervisor

Electrical/Electronics Certificate .$10/hr - $12/hrCareers: Test and Measurement Specialist

Baking and Pastry ArtsA.A.S. Degree .................................$23,000 - $29,000Careers: Pastry/Bakery Assistant, Assistant Pastry Chef, Cake Decorator, Baker

Basic Law Enforcement TrainingCertificate ........................................$28,000 - $38,000Careers: Police Officer, Deputy Sheriff, Private Security, Detention Officer, Alcohol Control Officer, State Highway Patrol Fast Track Candidate (Applicant must be sponsored by a Law Enforcement agency to be eligible for admission to BLET program.)

BiotechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$27,000 – $30,000Careers: Biopharmaceutical Processing, Chemical Processing, Laboratory Technician, Sales and Customer Service

Business AdministrationA.A.S. Degree ................................$23,000 – $32,000Careers: Purchasing Agent, Sales Manager, General Supervisor, Operations Officer, Loan Officer, Office Manager

CarpentryDiploma ............................................................ $20,000Careers: Contractors as Carpenters or Estimators, Cabinet Shop Cabinetmakers or Installers

Civil Engineering TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ....................................$14/hr – $16/hrCareers: Construction Technician, Materials Testing Technician, Construction Inspector, Engineering Technician

Civil/Surveying CAD Certificate ...........................................$10/hr – $12/hr Careers: Civil Engineering/Surveying CAD Technician

Computer Numerical Control Programming

Certificate ...........................................................$12/hrCareers: CNC Machine Operator

Advanced Certificate ........................$14/hr - $16/hrCareers: CNC Machinist, CNC Programmer

Computed Tomography & Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology

Diploma ...........................................$40,000 – $48,000Careers: Hospitals, Imaging Centers, and Physicians’ Offices where CT and/or MRI is performed

CT Certificate ..................................$40,000 - $48,000MRI Certificate ...............................$40,000 - $48,000Careers: Hospitals, Imaging Centers, and Physicians’ Offices where CT or MRI is performed

Computer Engineering TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................................. $27,000Careers: Computer and Network Service Technician, Systems Integration Technician, Automation Specialist, Integrated Manufacturing Technician, Systems Support Engineer, Controls Engineer

Computer Information TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$28,000 – $42,000Careers: Computer Technician, Help Desk Technician, Information Systems Manager, PC Support Specialist, Database Administrator (DBA), IT Specialist

Geospatial Technology Certificate ...................................................... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Database Management Certificate ...................................................... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Microcomputer Applications Certificate ...................................................... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

PC Installation and Maintenance Certificate ...................................................... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Computer-Aided Drafting TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ....................................$14/hr – $16/hrCareers: CAD Operator, Architectural Drafter, CAD Technician

Certificate ...........................................$12/hr – $15/hrCareers: CAD Operator, CAD Technician

Architectural Drafting Certificate ...........................................$12/hr - $15/hr Careers: Architectural Drafter

Landscape Architecture Drafting Certificate ............................$12/hr - $15/hr Careers: Civil/Surveying Drafter, Landscape Architecture Drafter

Construction Management Technology

A.A.S. Degree ................................................. $36,000Careers: Entry-Level Position in Construction Management

CosmetologyA.A.S. Degree .................................$17,000 - $20,000Diploma ............................................$17,000 - $20,000Careers: Cosmetologist, Hair Stylist, Nail Technician, Esthetician, Salon Owner

Criminal Justice TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$28,000 – $38,000Careers: Law Enforcement, Highway Patrol, Deputy Sheriff, Private Security, Magistrate, Correctional Officer, Surveillance Officer, Alcohol Law Enforcement, Wildlife Enforcement

Culinary Technology A.A.S. DegreeA.A.S. Degree ...............................$23,000 – $29,000Careers: Saute Chef, Grill Chef, Gardemanger Chef, Soup/Sauce Chef, Kitchen Manager, Catering Banquet Manager, Dining Room Manager, Food/Beverage Manager, Purchasing Agent Steward, Equipment Purveyor

Dental AssistingDiploma ...........................................$24,000 – $26,000Careers: V.A. Clinics, Health Departments, State Clinics, Dental Schools, Private and Group Practices

Dental Hygiene A.A.S Degree. ................................$48,000 – $52,000 Careers: Dental Offices, Education, Local, State, and Federal Government Agencies, Private Industry

Digital Media TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$28,000 – $42,000Careers: Graphic Artist/Designer, Multimedia Specialist, Web Content Specialist, Digital Media Specialist, Interface Designer, Digital Video Producer, Digital Layout Artist and many new jobs yet to be defined in this expanding field

Digital Video Certificate ........................... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, Promotions within current position.

Interactive Multimedia Certificate .......... $25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Early Childhood EducationA.A.S. Degree ................................$26,000 – $40,000Careers: Child Care Worker, Child Care Assistant, Child Care Director, Preschool Director

School-Age Education A.A.S. Degree ................................$18,000 – $24,000Careers: Teacher Assistant in Elementary Schools, Teacher in Child Development Programs, Head Start, School-Age Programs

A-B

Tech Career ProgramsEntry-Level Salary Ranges

Salaries may vary based on size of business and other factors.

*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position. These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.7 | EdVantage abtech.edu | 828-254-1921


A-B Tech Career ProgramsEarly Childhood Certificate ........................................$14,000 - $20,000Careers: Child development and child care programs, preschools, private schools, recreational centers, Head Start programs and school-age programs

Infant/Toddler Care Certificate ........................................$14,000 - $17,000 Careers: Child Development and Childcare Programs, Preschools, Early Head Start, Infant/Toddler Programs

Special Education Certificate .......................................$15,000 - $18,000Careers: Teacher or Teacher Assistant in a Childcare Classroom or a Developmental Day Center

Electrical WiringCertificate ............................................$10/hr - $12/hrCareers: Electrician’s Assistant, Solar PV Installer, Apprentice Electrician, Electrical Maintenance Technician, Home Automation Installer, Automotive Entertainment Installer

Electrical/Electronics TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................................. $32,000Diploma ............................................................ $24,000Careers: Industrial Maintenance Technician, Industrial Electrician, Facilities Technician, Electrical License Apprentice, Installer and Technician for Home and Business Low Voltage Systems (Entertainment, Security, Telecom)

Electronics Engineering TechnologyA.A.A. Degree ................................................. $32,000Careers: Electronics Engineering Technician, Electronics Maintenance Technician, Control Systems Technician, Electrical Tester

Emergency Medical Science A.A.S. Degree ................................$28,000 – $40,000Careers: Emergency Medical Services, Hospitals, Urgent Care Clinics, Physicians’ Offices, Private Ambulance Companies

EntrepreneurshipA.A.S. Degree .................................$25,000 - $45,000

Certificate ........................................$25,000 - $45,000Careers: Business Owner, Consultant, Capital Investor, Self-Employment

Esthetics Technology Certificate ........................................$25,000 - $30,000Careers: Esthetician

Fire Protection Technology A.A.S. Degree ................................$23,000 – $30,000Careers: Municipal Fire Departments, Government Agencies, Industrial Firms, Insurance Rating Organizations, Educational Organizations

Certificate ............................................... Incremental Pay Step Increases of $500 to $1,000 AnnuallyCareers: Promotional Opportunities for Members Within Their Municipal Fire Departments, Government Agencies, Industrial Firms, Insurance Rating Organizations, or Educational Organizations

Heavy Equipment and Transport Technology

A.A.S. Degree ................................................. $25,000Diploma ............................................................ $20,000 Careers: Diesel Mechanic, Fuel Injection Service Repairer, Heavy Tractor Mechanic Help

Hotel and Restaurant Management A.A.S. Degree ................................$24,000 – $30,000Careers: Catering Manager, Management Trainee, Restaurant Manager, Director of Food Services, Reservations Manager, Front Office Manager, Country Club Manager, Food/Beverage Manager

Hospitality Management Certificate .....................................................................

potential salary increase of $2,000/yr - $5,000/yrCareers: Career upgrade and Cross-training

Bed and Breakfast/Inn Management Certificate ..............$18,000 - $21,000Careers: Bed and Breakfast Manager, Small Lodging Manager

Human Resources Management A.A.S. Degree ................................$20,000 – $30,000Careers: HR Technician, HR Specialist, HR Manager, Payroll Officer, Benefits Administrator, Team Leadership Training and Development Facilitator, General Supervisor

Human Services Technology/Social Services

A.A.S. Degree ................................$19,000 – $29,000Careers: Case Worker, Family Support Worker, Youth Worker, Social Service Liaison, Residential Counselor, Behavioral Management Aide/Technician, Case management Aide, Eligibility Counselor, Public Assistance Worker, Substance Abuse Worker, Life Skills Instructor, Social Service Aide/Technician, Social Work Aide/Technician, Group Activities Aide/Technician, Therapeutic Assistant, Gerontology Aide/Technician, Home Health Aide, Group Home Worker, Mental Health Aide/Technician, Intake Interviewer, Community Outreach Worker, Psychological Aide/Technician, Halfway House Counselor, Rehabilitation Case Worker, Residential Manager

Industrial Systems Technology A.A.S. Degree ................................................. $28,000Careers: Manufacturing Maintenance Technician, Facilities Management Technician, Maintenance Mechanic

Diploma ................................................$10/hr - $12/hrCareers: Entry-Level Maintenance Technician

Information Systems Security A.A.S. Degree ................................$36,900 – $43,500Careers: Information Technology Specialist, Data Security Administrator, Information Security Analyst, Information Security Officer, Computer Specialist, Information Security Specialist, Information Systems Security Analyst, Computer Security Specialist, Information Security Manager, Information Technology Security Analyst

Machining TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ....................................$12/hr – $14/hrDiploma ...............................................$12/hr – $14/hrCareers: Manufacturing Machinist, Machine or CNC Set-Up Operator, Quality Control Technician

Machining, Basic Certificate ........................$10/hrCareers: Machine Operator

Manicuring/Nail Technology Certificate ........................................$15,000 - $18,000Careers: Manicurist, Nail Technician

Marketing and RetailingA.A.S. Degree ................................$25,000 – $32,000Careers: Assistant Manager, Department Manager, Sales Representative, Salesperson, Retail Buyer

Retail Marketing Certificate ......................................$20,000 – $25,000Careers: Entry-Level Retail Positions

Mechanical Engineering Technology A.A.S. Degree ................................................. $30,000Careers: Manufacturing Engineer, Quality Control Technician, Mechanical Designer, Maintenance Engineering Technician

Mechanical Drafting Certificate ............... $28,500Careers: Mechanical Drafter

Medical Assisting A.A.S. Degree ................................$19,000 – $27,000Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Health Maintenance Organizations

Medical Laboratory Technology A.A.S. Degree ................................$25,000 – $33,000Careers: Hospitals, Emergency Care Clinics, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, General Clinics, Commercial Labs

Medical Office Administration Diploma ............................................$20,800 - $24,950Careers: Medical and Dental Offices, Hospitals, Insurance Companies, Laboratories, Medical Supply Companies, Healthcare Related Organizations

Medical Coding Certificate ........$20,800 - $24,960Careers: Medical and Dental Offices, Hospitals, Insurance Companies, Laboratories, Healthcare Related Organizations

Medical Sonography A.A.S. Degree ................................$40,000 – $48,000Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Imaging Centers, Mobile/Traveling Services

Medical Transcription Diploma ............................................................ $20,800Careers: Hospitals, Medical Clinics, Doctors’ Offices, Private Transcription Businesses, Research Facilities, Insurance Companies, Publishing Companies

Entry-Level Salary Ranges


*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position. These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.


Networking TechnologyA.A.S. Degree .................................$36,900 - $43,500Careers: Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist), Local Area Network Administrator (LAN Administrator), Information Technology Manager (IT Manager), Information Technology Director (IT Director), Systems Engineer, Network Manager, Network Specialist

Cisco Certified Network Administrator Preparation Certificate ..............$30,338 - $69,059*Careers: Entry-Level Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Technician, Systems Administrator, Systems Analyst, Systems Engineer

NursingAssociate Degree Nursing

A.A.S. Degree ................................$39,000 – $48,000Careers: Hospitals, Long-Term Care Facilities, Clinics, Physicians’ Offices, Industry, Community, Health Agencies

Practical Nursing Diploma ...........................................$24,000 – $32,000Careers: Hospitals, Long-Term Care Facilities, Physicians’ Offices, Industry, Community Health Agencies

Office AdministrationA.A.S. Degree ................................$25,000 – $27,000Diploma ...........................................$22,000 – $25,000Careers: Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, Word Processor, Information Processing Specialist, Administrative Support

Word Processing/Desktop Publishing Certificate ...................$20,800 - $24,950Careers: Marketing Communications Coordinator, Technical Writer, Technical Publications Engineer, Web Digital Electronic Prepress Manager, Digital Electronic Prepress Manager/Developer, Documentation Software Product Manager, Digital Image Processor, Production Supervisor, Proofreader, Administrative Assistant

Phlebotomy Certificate ........................................$20,000 - $25,000Careers: Hospitals, Physicians’ Offices, Health Departments, Blood Donation Centers, Emergency Care Centers, Commercial Labs

Radiography A.A.S. Degree ................................$35,000 – $42,000Careers: Hospitals, Health Departments, Physicians’ Offices, Emergency Care Clinics, Industry, Imaging Centers

Real Estate Appraisal Certificate .......................................$25,000 – $40,000Careers: Appraiser Trainee. With required experience: Certified Appraiser (Residential), General Appraiser (Commercial), Right-of-Way Procurement

Real Estate LicensingCertificate ........................................$25,000 - $40,000Careers: Residential Real Estate Services

Resort and Spa ManagementCertificate .......................................$25,000 – $32,000Careers: Member/guest Services, Assistant Spa Directors, Spa Attendant Supervisors, Spa Concierge, Spa Sales Managers, Assistant Clubhouse Managers

Surgical TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$28,000 – $31,000Diploma ...........................................$28,000 – $31,000Careers: Hospitals, Surgery Centers, Physicians’ Offices, Organ Harvest Organizations

Surveying Technology A.A.S. Degree ....................................$14/hr – $16/hrCareers: Construction Layout Technician, Land Surveyor, Mapper

Surveying Fundamentals Certificate ...........................................$10/hr – $12/hrCareers: Construction Layout Assistant, Land Surveying Aide

Therapeutic MassageA.A.S. Degree ................................$25,000 – $30,000Diploma ...........................................$21,000 – $26,000Careers: Massage Therapist in Medical Facilities, Health Clubs, Spas, and Private Practice

Veterinary Medical TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ................................$18,000 – $24,000Careers: Veterinary Clinics, Diagnostic Labs, Research Labs, Zoos, Animal Care Facilities, Pharmaceutical Companies, Feed Companies

Web Technologies A.A.S. Degree ................................$30,000 – $42,000Careers: Web Designer, Web Administrator, Web Developer, Webmaster, Web Database Programmer/Developer

Web Designer Certificate .........................$25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Web Programming Certificate ................$25,000*Careers: Entry-level positions depending on background, promotions within current position.

Welding TechnologyA.A.S. Degree ....................................$17/hr – $25/hrDiploma ...............................................$15/hr – $22/hrCareers: Arc Welder, Arc Welder-Machine Operator, Gas Welder-Machine Operator, Combination Welder, Pipe Welder

Welding I, Basic Certificate .....................$10-12/hrCareers: Welder’s Assistant

A-B

Tech Career ProgramsEntry-Level Salary Ranges



*Many certificates are not stand-alone qualifications for a position. These are designed to enhance skills or be coupled with related experience.

abtech.edu | 828-254-1921

GettingEnrolledThe College accepts applications continuously throughout the school year. Early application is advised for many programs, especially allied health. (Specific information about applying for allied health

programs can be found at abtech.edu.)

Student Services

SUBMIT an applicationApplications can be submitted online or forms can be downloaded from abtech.edu. Click on Students. Applicants can use the computers in the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center on the Asheville campus.

Go to abtech.edu/apply.

SEND in your transcriptHave an official copy of your final high school and other college transcripts sent to:

Admissions Department A-B Tech 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC, 28801.

TAKE the ACCUPLACER testTo schedule an appointment, go to abtech.edu and click on Students, then Placement Test Scheduling. Students may exempt testing with specific SAT or ACT scores of greater than 500. Please refer to placement testing information on the web. Students with transfer credit in English and/or math may not be required to test.

If applying to one of the college’s competitive Allied Health programs, testing for Fall 2010 runs through Jan. 29, 2010.

SEE an AdvisorAn advisor will review your scores after you take the placement tests and complete the process of admitting you to your desired program. This includes advising and preparing you for registration.

For questions about program admission or testing, please contact the Student Services Success Center at :

254-1921 ext. 7520.



Navigating Student Services

Receiving assistance at the K. Ray

Bailey Student Services Center starts with stopping at the sign-in station and answering a few questions on the computer. Once that is complete, take a ticket, have a seat and relax.

Your name and number will be called and you will be directed to the person

who can best help you based on the questions you answered during sign-in.

Services at the center include registration, dropping and adding classes, and checking on financial aid status. More in-depth services are also available for students new to the college who need to apply, learn about programs and take a placement test. A Veterans’ Services Office and a Disability Services Office are also available for qualified students.

The Bailey Building also houses the College Bookstore and the Business Office for quick payments.

A-B Tech AdvisorsThe Bailey Building houses advisors who assist students with everything needed to be successful at the College. Advisors assist students with classes and develop education plans with them.

Other services performed by advisors include:

➨ Admissions procedures

➨ Transcript information

➨ Placement testing and evaluation

➨ Information regarding childcare, veterans’ services, and career development resources

➨ Financial aid application and status

Check in at the the K. Ray Bailey Student Services Center.



Paying for College: What You Should Know and Do

The first step in securing financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA will determine your eligibility for federal, state, or institutional aid. Complete the FAFSA online at fafsa.ed.gov. The FAFSA for the 2009-10 academic year may be submitted through June 30, 2010. Be sure to include A-B Tech’s Federal School Code, 004033, so the Financial Aid Office will receive the results. Following your FAFSA submission, you will receive the Student Aid Report (SAR). Review the SAR information carefully. Approximately eight to 12 weeks later, you will be notified through your A-B

Tech student email account that your award letter is ready to be viewed in WebAdvisor. This letter outlines assistance you are eligible for and information about using the financial aid.

Scholarships and Grants Scholarships and grants come from a variety of sources and require individual applications. According to College Foundation of North Carolina, the state has more than $600 million a year available for students and that doesn’t include federal and college assistance.

Work-StudyMany colleges, including A-B Tech, offer work-study opportunities. Check with the Financial Aid Office to learn more. You may also consider an internship related to your course of study. While gaining valuable, hands-on experience, you will also be earning money to put toward college if the internship is paid. Check with your department to see what internships are available. You can

Don’t be intimidated You, the student, are responsible for the portion of your educational costs that you can reasonably afford. This is determined by standard financial aid formulas. Most students and their families pay for college through a combination of savings, current earnings, and borrowing.

Though the cost of a college education may seem difficult to afford, it is important to remember that affordability is determined by breaking down the cost over time in monthly payments, just as you would when making other considerable purchases. Remember that your education is an investment.

Financial AidSaving is the safest way to ensure you can pay for college. If you have not saved as much as you need, it is still possible to finance your education. All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. Financial aid is awarded based on a number of factors.

Continuing your education makes sense for you. You’re ready to take that important

step. What may not make sense is how you’re going to pay for it. Though a community college education is a great deal, paying for it can still be daunting and confusing. We know how you feel and that is why we’re here to help.

Feature

Free Scholarship Search ServicesCollege Foundation of North Carolina

➨ www.cfnc.org/paying/schol/aid_search.jsp

Scholarship Search ➨ apps.collegeboard.com/cbsearch_ss/welcome.jsp

Fastweb ➨ www.fastweb.com

Wiredscholar ➨ www.collegeanswer.com/paying/scholarship_search/pay_scholarship_search.jsp

FinAid ➨ www.finaid.org

Resources On the Web ➨ www.cfnc.org

➨ www.ncgov.com/ToLearn.aspx

➨ studentaid.ed.gov

12 | EdVantage


also plan internships with individual employers in your field.

LoansTake advantage of federal and state loans, which have lower interest rates than private loans and accommodating repayment schedules. Be cautious of borrowing from private lenders who usually offer easier access, but have higher interest rates that make it much more difficult to pay back. It is also important to not borrow more than you need.

Tuition Payment Plan A-B Tech offers a payment plan for tuition and fees if you have repaid all prior payment plans on time. The plan breaks the payment down into three equal payments. To find out more, go to abtech.edu/payments.asp.

People To AskA-B Tech Financial Aid OfficeK. Ray Bailey Student Services Center 340 Victoria Road Asheville, NC 28801

Phone: (828) 254-1921, ext 7520 Fax: (828) 281-9837 Email: [email protected]

Federal School Code 004033

Financial Aid HoursMonday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

A-B Tech Foundation OfficeLeronica Casey, Resource Development Coordinator

[email protected]

Scholarship TipsThough the majority of student aid comes in the form of federal loans and grants, scholarships are a great option in paying for college. Money for your education, ranging from a couple hundred dollars to full tuition, is given to you and you do not have to pay it back. Scholarships can be based on any number of factors, including merit, athletics, need, and group affiliation. They do require time and effort in finding and applying for them, but are well worth it if you get the money. Here are some tips to help you maximize your scholarship-seeking efforts.

Let the Search Begin ➨ Start your search for scholarships early. Do a personal inventory to determine what types of groups might offer scholarships that are applicable to you. Bear in mind what your plans are during and after college, including academic, extracurricular, and career plans.

➨ Online scholarship searches have information on many awards and match your profile with possible fits. Review these options carefully. You should not have to pay a scholarship search.

➨ Know what scholarships are available to you locally. The number of applicants will be lower than national scholarships so your chances are increased.

➨ Check your local library. Look for scholarship guides and information for local residents.

➨ Visit the Financial Aid Office for the latest information for A-B Tech students. Did you know that colleges disburse the majority of all scholarships?

➨ Check with your employer, your parents’ employer, and membership organizations. Job-related scholarships or assistance may be available.

➨ Research your state’s scholarship program by contacting your state Department of Higher Education. For North Carolina residents, the website is www.ncgov.com/ToLearn.aspx.

Apply Yourself ➨ Apply a lot. You might be surprised to receive a scholarship you didn’t know applied to you.

➨ Know the deadlines and requirements. Apply in order of deadline. Consider making a folder for each and filing them by their deadline so that none will slip through the cracks.

➨ Questions about your eligibility or the application? Contact the scholarship sponsor. Or apply anyway.

➨ Use your experiences, achievements, essays, recommendations, and interviews to win the money you’re after. Keep in mind that the reader will be asking him/herself “Why should I give the money to this person?” Be sure to answer that question in your essay. Do not exaggerate any part of your history. Do, however, make a compelling case as to why you should receive the money.

➨ Make sure your application is complete and correct. Before you send it, have a parent, teacher, or friend read your application and essay for grammatical errors as well as areas in which you can improve. Follow directions carefully. For example, do not go over the word limit on the essay.

➨ Make copies of everything you send. If anything is lost, you will be able to replace it easily. File these copies in the corresponding file folder for that scholarship.

➨ Be aware that scholarships may affect your financial aid package. Talk to the Financial Aid Office to see how this might affect you.

Resources On the Web ➨ www.cfnc.org

➨ www.ncgov.com/ToLearn.aspx

➨ studentaid.ed.gov



Dine With UsBaking and Pastry Arts | Culinary Technology | Hotel and Restaurant Management

Enjoy a dining experience beyond your expectations. Our Hospitality

Education programs showcase the most attentive service paired with

the finest foods prepared by an award-winning culinary arts program.

Learn more about dining at A-B Tech: abtech.edu/bh/hospitality

Ahhhmassage

Therapeutic Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Reflexologyavailable based on curriculum

appointments made by email only: [email protected]

CUTS T Y L EPEDICURE

LASHCOLOR

MASKTEXTURE

BIKINIBROWFACIAL

HA IRMANICURE

NAI LSBRAIDS

TRIM

SalonFull Service

Appointments made by email only: [email protected]

SpaA-B Tech

A-B Tech’s Low-Cost

Dental Teaching ClinicCleanings | X-Rays | Sealants

Appointment only: 254-1921 Ext. 255 (Initial screening required)

For existing dental hygiene patients, limited restorative dental work may be offered in select semesters.

The cost of A-B Tech services helps cover the costs of materials.

ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE340 Victoria RoadAsheville, NC 28801

Postal Customer

Non-Profit U.S. Postage

PAID Asheville, NC

Permit No. 440ECRWSS

Jan. 1

1

Classes

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