The growth in the student population is exceeding even the most liberal predictions.

With the registration of over 100 students this week and 175 more scheduled for next week before classes begin, it appears the total number of students for Fall will exceed the 900 mark.

Within each of the 10 accredited programs, all of the Instructors are preparing for full classes. Classes begin at 7 a.m. and end at 10 p.m. on some evenings. Saturday classes are held to accommodate overflow and work schedules of students.

Classes offered in most programs are face-to-face, hybrid and online. The flexibility allows for working students and those with family responsibilities.

While the New Center for Advancement of Technical Education (CATE) and PTEC building is rapidly taking shape, the enrollment continues to grow. The additional six classrooms and training center are already on target to be filled.

While it is not too late to register for this semester, the window is closing fast. There are seats still available in most of the programs. The Licensed Practical Nursing Program has reached its limit and is closed for this Fall semester.

Those interested in Nursing should inquire about other Allied Health Programs that offer prerequisites for the next cohort.

The building of a 40-booth Welding Complex, just behind the new CATE Building, is on target for ground breaking in early 2017. That will allow for the expansion of the Welding program to double its current size.

The Industrial Maintenance Millwright Program is now on track for the students to be NCCER certified upon completion. The Industrial Instrumentation program is also on track for Spring semester 2017 to be fully aligned for NCCER certification of students.

A/C Refrigeration Summer semester students installed a JET-Air system in a Jeep and have plans to install mini splits during the Fall semester.

All of the programs are ahead of the curve when it comes to creative teaching methods and actual hands-on training.

South Central Louisiana Technical College students are work ready and well-rounded in all aspects of matching their interests and skills to the work force.

At SCL, Our Students Go To Work!

Penelope Freeman is Campus Dean for South Central Louisiana Technical College. She is at the Reserve Campus. Email her at penelopefreeman@scl.edu.