TRC expands courses in area's time of need

SIKESTON -- Local students looking for an associate of applied science degree in manufacturing and industrial systems at Three Rivers College will get a break from the gas pump because TRC has expanded its courses to the Sikeston campus.

"It challenges us educators to figure out what is the next thing we're going to have to be doing," said Missy Marshall, TRC director at Sikeston. "We try to meet up with our HR people, our different employers and the plant managers to say, 'OK, what are you seeing on the horizon?'"

Because computers and technology are continually changing the work environment, industries and manufacturing companies, like Unilever and Tetra Pak, are in growing need for technicians, workers who have knowledge in programing and maintenance of automated robotic and computerized equipment.

"Good maintenance people are quicker to find jobs...people haven't been going into those fields," said Tetra Pak HR Representative Jill Gage.

"There is such a need here right now to meet," stated Marshall, explaining the reason for bringing the manufacturing and industrial systems cohort to the Sikeston campus.

The AAS degree is available in the fall and spring semesters and could take about two years to complete. Depending on previous college history and individual placement scores, students can achieve their degree in less than two years. Students' schedules are designed specifically to the individual by examining their progress.

"You can't treat students in a cookie-cutter way," said Marshall.

Certifications in the technician field are also available.

Fundamental Industrial Readiness Skills Training (FIRST) is a cohort TRC created from a Department of Labor grant. It's a free eight-week certification program for people who are unemployed, providing workers the basic information and skills they'll need to excel in manufacturing and industrial companies.

For the complete story, see the weekend edition of the Standard Democrat.