Linn State Technical College breaks record enrollment with 1,169 students beginning the fall semester after the traditional ringing of the bell on Tuesday, August 25.  A 16 percent growth over last fall’s starting day enrollment is a positive trend for the college.

“With today’s economy, students of all ages are recognizing the benefit of technical education,” commented Vicki Schwinke, Dean of Academic Affairs and Student Services.

The 2009 fall enrollment encompasses students from 84 percent of Missouri counties and three states.  The top three programs based on number of students enrolled are Industrial Electricity, Automotive Technology and Nuclear Technology.

Students were greeted with a “Week of Welcome” starting with doughnuts provided by the LSTC Alumni Association.  The celebration continued with activities, prizes and food each day and concluded Thursday with a Merchant’s Fair, allowing students the chance to visit with local businesses.

Along with the enrollment growth, LSTC has officially launched AJA@™LSTC. AJA@™LSTC is a value-added service to students and employers that rewards students by giving employers more than the typical academic grade on a transcript.  In addition to the academic grade, a job readiness score and an attendance percentage is recorded for each class.  The decision to include a job readiness score and an attendance percentage and on the transcript was based on a survey of employers.  Little if anything has received as much positive reaction from employers.  With the Linn State Technical College mission being to “prepare students for profitable employment and a life of learning,” this bold cutting-edge initiative is an unparalleled service to students.

While addressing faculty and staff at the annual fall workshop Dr. Claycomb, LSTC President stated, “Our focus is our strength.  It’s easier to make an impression than to change one, we have a great reputation to build on.  We know our mission and we believe in our mission.”

With overflowing classrooms many are anticipating the fall 2010 completion of the new Vehicle and Power Center (VaPC).  The 84,000 square foot facility will be home to Automotive Collision Technology, Heavy Equipment Technology, CAT Dealer Service Technician Option, Medium/Heavy Truck Technology and Powersports Technology.  There will also be four specialized lab areas for electrical, hydraulic, air conditioning and engines along with an area for new and emerging technologies.

“We also recognize we have challenges,” commented Claycomb.  “LSTC must continue to find ways to better prepare students to be successful in a rapidly changing world.”

Even with the economic downturn, students are finding jobs.  On average 96 percent of LSTC graduates obtain jobs within six months of graduation, a very important trend in today’s economy. 

Linn State Technical College is Missouri’s only state technical college with campuses in Linn, Jefferson City and Mexico.  For more information about LSTC, visit www.linnstate.edu.