2018-2019 President's Report

New Diesel Technology Program to be Offered

T he college announced in February it will offer a new program in Diesel Equipment Technology in Philadelphia beginning in Fall 2019, pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The instructional program will be located at the former U.S. Motors plant and will provide stu dents with competencies required to maintain a variety of industrial diesel equipment, including agricultural tractors, commercial trucks, and con struction equipment. It will include instruction in inspections, repair, maintenance of engines, power trains, hydraulic systems and other components.

Students can select between several pathways, including a career certificate, technical certificate or an Associate of Applied Science degree. Coursework will include Fundamentals of Equip ment Mechanics, Electrical/Electronic Systems I, II, and III, Hydraulics I, Diesel Systems I, II, and III, Preventive Maintenance and Service, Transporta tion Power Train, Air Conditioning and Heating Systems, Advanced Brake Systems (Air), Steering and Suspension Systems, and Heavy Equipment Powertrain. According to recent statistics by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, experienced diesel technicians in the East Central Community College area can earn up to $26.12 per hour or $54,324 annually.

SkillsUSA State Honors Numerous Career & Technical students took top honors in the Mississippi SkillsUSA state competition in April. Those receiving first-place honors represented Mississippi at the National Skills and Leadership Conference in Louisville, Ky, in June. ECCC students took first-place honors in Promotional Bulletin Board, State Pin Design, Industrial Motor Control, Action Skills, Carpentry, Cabinetmaking, Collision Repair, Auto Refinishing, and Restaurant Service. SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit organization serving high school and college students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations, including health occupations. Coca-Cola Gold Scholar Sophomore nursing major Rebekah Scitzs of Collinsville was named a 2019 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and received a $1,500 scholarship. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academ ic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze Scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually.

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