PTC hosts "Family Fun Night"

Hey all you Pine Tech community members, check out some family fun photos from our Oct. 25 fall family fun night.
PTC students, staff, faculty and their families came to the campus to celebrate fall, some dressed in costume, with games, food, laughs, and more!
Don't miss out on our next family fun night - PTC's Holiday Party, sponsored by Student Senate. The festivities will be on Friday, Dec. 20 from 5 to 8 p.m., and will include the ever popular photo booth, good food, and goody bags for kids! Look for reminders as we get closer to the event!

PTC set to host Thirteenth Annual Donor Recognition Event

Pine Technical College will host the Thirteenth Annual Donor Recognition Event Friday, Nov. 22, with social hour beginning at 5 p.m., at the North West Company Fur Post in Pine City. The event honors those who have given financial contributions to the college in support of PTC’s various scholarship programs, as well as the college’s many scholarship recipients.

“This is a very special event that means a lot for our students and for our donors,” said Sandi Carlisle, Executive Assistant to the President and PTC Foundation Coordinator. “This event provides a perfect opportunity for scholarship recipients to meet and thank Foundation donors, and it’s also a more elegant, upscale evening that we intentionally create for honoring the achievements of our students while enjoying the best hors d’oeuvres, wine, and entertainment our community has to offer,” Carlisle added.

The event will open with a social hour and wine tasting while attendees enjoy musical entertainment by Mary Ovick, accompanied by PTC’s very own Connie Odendahl. Manufacturing student David Grosshauser and nursing student Sandra Oachs (both scholarship recipients) will be attending as speakers. Chancellor Steven Rosenstone will also be in attendance as a guest speaker. This fall, the PTC Foundation has awarded $54,500 to 51 students.

The event is open to the public, and guests will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle with prizes that include an IPad Mini and 29” Vizio LED HD TV. Contributors for the prizes have come from PTC College Foundation, Pine City Walmart, Voyaguer Bottle Shop, and Janet Musgrove. Raffle tickets are available for $5 at Voyageur Bottle Shop or PTC’s President’s Office. Winners do not need to be present to win.  

Tickets for the event will be sold at the door, or at PTC  for $10, and all proceeds will go to the Bridging the Dream Scholarship fund. The event’s refreshments will be provided by Chris’ Food Center, Chubby’s Restaurant, Grand Casino – Hinckley, Miley’s Catering, Tesora Restaurant, and Wings North, with wine provided by Voyageur Bottle Shop.

Honoring our Veterans!

Pine Technical College proudly honors our U.S. Military Veterans in this display that showcases items from our students, staff, faculty and/or their relatives. 

These items range from the Korean Conflict, WWII, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait. More items are on display in our Prototyping Hall.

The hanging flags in this display were gratefully donated by the Pine City VFW.

Nominate an Outstanding Educator; Deadline Nov. 18

Pine Technical College students, faculty and staff members, administrators, alumni and Pine community members are invited to nominate a PTC faculty member for the prestigious Minnesota State College and Universities Board of Trustees Educator of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Nominations are open from Monday, Nov. 4 through Monday, Nov. 18, 2013. A list of eligible faculty and a nomination form can be found on the school’s website.  The form must be completed in its entirety to be considered.  Nominations may either be submitted by a paper copy or an email copy to Joan Bloemendaal-Gruett, Chief Academic Officer at bloemendaalgruettj@pinetech.edu.

Once nominations are in, and reviewed by the nomination committee and scoring criteria, that faculty member will be selected in December and represent Pine Technical College by submitting a portfolio to be considered for the Educator of the Year: Board of Trustees Award for Excellence in Teaching.

This award recognizes superior training throughout MnSCU’s colleges and universities, and each year campus community members are welcomed to nominate and select among eligible faculty members to receive such an honor.

Since 2007, the Board of Trustees has recognized 208 Outstanding Educators and honors 27 faculty as Educators of the Year, rewarding exceptional individual professional accomplishment, and ongoing excellence in teaching.

This year, PTC will be participating in the program for their fourth year. 

PTC looks good with a little splash of white added to fall!

PTC faculty spreads word of updated HSEW program

Human Services Eligibility Worker graduates are rapidly becoming sought after by Minnesota Human Service Agencies, and PTC works to prepare their graduates for positions working in state or county agencies.

“Minnesota counties have been on a hiring spree lately, preparing for an influx of newly-insured residents to begin applying for coverage under the Affordable Care Act,” reported 5 Eyewitness News. They also report that, according to Rex Holzemer, assistant county administrator for Human Services in the state's largest county, “the added workers will be needed to help an estimated 23,800 newly-insured residents get registered for the health care they're eligible for.”

Now, counties all across Minnesota are scrambling to find qualified employees to accommodate the need to register the estimated thousands of newly insured Minnesota residents.

Back in August, at the beginning of fall semester, PTC launched their updated HSEW program. “With the updated curriculum and subsequent renaming of the program, we are more prepared than ever to train and develop our students for this valuable human service work,” informed Rita Watson, Human Services Eligibility Worker faculty member. “The HSEW program is for individuals who enjoy working with people and computers, plus have an interest in helping people in times of financial need,” she added.

In early September, Watson and HSEW faculty member Malinda Gahm attended the Minnesota Sponsors Conference in Brainerd to get the word out about the HSEW program. At the conference, “We spread the word about the HSEW program beyond just HSEW county supervisors. We were able to tell supervisors in various social service areas about the program,” said Gahm. “I think that will be a great help into spreading information about the program.  It was also beneficial because most of the supervisors in northern and southern counties were able to hear about the online option so individuals can take the courses virtually.” 

In late September, Watson and Gahm attended the Minnesota Financial Worker and Case Aide Association’s conference. “Our goal to educate the workers themselves on the program and the online availability,” remarked Gahm.

Watson explained that these conferences were for employer support vs. student recruitment. The purpose of the employer recruitment was to get employers interested in hiring graduates from the HSEW program. During their presentation, Watson and Gahm emphasized that HSEW graduates would make desirable employees because these students are dedicated to their career, and county human service agencies can save time and money with reduced training costs.

With PTC’s updated program, HSEW graduates will have a higher job outlook now more than ever. The HSEW program guides students to develop an understanding of the complex rules and policies governing public assistance as well as gaining computer skills.

The HSEW program is comprised of a 40-credit diploma and 60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree. For more information, contact the program at HSEW@pinetech.edu, or call1-800-521-7463.   

Watson and Gahm presented their HSEW at each conference this fall. 

Incubator building progress!

PTC's Cottage gets new signs

PTC's Cottage received new signage for their Child Care Aware program! 

Child Care Aware is part of PTC’s Employment and Training Center and serves 17 counties in Northeastern Minnesota. Additionally, Child Care Aware is working with Pine County providers in becoming rated in Minnesota’s new Child Care rating system, Parent Aware.

 For more information about Child Care Aware, contact Anne Kubesh, Region 7E Coordinator, at 320-629-5141; or via email at: kubesha@pinetech.edu; or contact Wendy Walburg, District Coordinator, at 320-629-5146; or via email at: walburgw@pinetech.edu.

PTC awarded top honors for veterans support

Pine Technical College has recently been awarded for their continuing efforts in supporting students who are veterans.

There have been “three very positive things that happened for the college and our veterans,” mentioned PTC Veterans Center Liaison Doug Davis.

Back in September, the college was recognized as a Military Friendly School. The 2014 list showcases the top 20 percent of colleges, universities, and trade schools across the country that are doing the most to embrace military service members, vets, and spouses as students, and ensure their success on campus. 

“To become a Military Friendly school involves filling out a questionnaire concerning PTC and what we do for our veterans,” informed Davis.  “It has been a four-year process, and we have been successful in that recognition the last two years.”

For more information, or to see the complete list, go to www.militaryfriendlyschools.com.

In mid-September, PTC was ranked 16 among 40 career and technical schools across the U.S. as one of the Best for Vets: Career and Technical Colleges 2014 by the Military Times EDGE magazine.

The list, which is in the September issue of Military Times EDGE, highlights schools that have put the most thought and effort into tailoring programs and policies around veterans’ different experiences.

To qualify, schools were evaluated in five categories: university culture, student support, academic policies, academic quality and financial aid.

To see the complete list, go to www.militarytimes.com/bestforvets-ctc2014.

PTC has also become a chartered member of the nationally recognized Student Veterans of America (SVA). Partnered with the local VFW, PTC now has its own SVA chapter. SVA was officially incorporated in January 2008 to provide programs, resources, and support to the ever-evolving network of local student veteran organizations.

“If you are registered at Pine as a veteran then you are automatically enrolled in SVA,” informed PTC student and veteran of the U.S. Army April Sheldon. “We will be having a tribute to all our veterans on with things that vets have brought in from their time in service.”

Look for the veterans display at Pine Technical College during the month of November.

PTC’s Veterans Center is open 12 hours a week; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 320-629-5181, or email Doug Davis at davisd@pinetech.edu. 

PTC to take part in Minnesota Dream It Do It Statewide Tour of Manufacturing

Have you ever wondered what happens inside manufacturing plants? Now, you can come and see for yourself during the Dream It Do It Statewide Tour of Manufacturing. Manufacturers will open their doors for tours across the state for this industry event as the Minnesota Manufacturers’ Week wraps up.

Pine Technical College will be open to the public from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct.24. All are welcome, including: families, job seekers, and school and community groups, to learn first-hand how people make the things we use every day. The tour is free, and no registration is needed.

Minnesota manufacturers make snowmobiles, construction equipment, airplane parts, military technology, life-saving medical devices, baseball bats and wooden toys, and more.

Manufacturing is the backbone of Minnesota’s economy. According to the Department of Employment and Economic Development, the industry impacts over 30% of Minnesota jobs. “We’re excited to open our doors so youth, families and job seekers can see the technology, creativity and need for educated employees in their community in advanced manufacturing,” shared the Advanced Manufacturing Team, Pine Technical College

The Tour of Manufacturing is supported by local manufacturing business partners, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, 360° Manufacturing and Applied Manufacturing ATE Regional Center of Excellence, Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association, Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association, Arrowhead Manufacturers and Fabricators Association, Tri-State Manufacturers’ Association and the Minnesota Manufacturers Coalition.

To learn more about the tour, visit tourofmanufacturingmn.com; to learn more about manufacturing, visit dreamitdoitmn.com.

About Dream It Do It

Dream It Do It, led by 360° Manufacturing and Applied Engineering ATE Regional Center of Excellence, collaborates with industry members to promote careers in manufacturing in Minnesota. To learn more about this initiative, visit dreamitdoitmn.com or contact Jessica Gehrke at 218-755-2209 or jgehrke@bemidjistate.edu. Local contact at Pine Technical College: Heidi Braun 320-629-5178 braunh@pinetech.edu.

Pines get motived to ‘Take Back College’

Pine Technical College’s students, staff, and faculty had the opportunity to get to know one another through a three-minute tell-all, no-questions-asked segment during motivational speaker Ryan Penneau’s presentation Friday, Sept. 6.

Penneau was invited by PTC’s Student Senate to come share his “Take Back College” philosophy and presentation.

“We’ve seen him at a few MSCSA Conferences and he’s awesome,” noted Student Senate Advisor Amanda Spencer. “He’s so excited about education and students.”

Before diving in, Penneau had his audience engage in “get to know you” activities. “I always like to create some sense of community before we start,” he informed.

“He really gets the crowd to pay attention,” said PTC student and Student Senate Treasurer April Sheldon. “He’s super excited about everything, and that gets us motivated.”

Penneau’s focus was students taking charge of their college career by overcoming their own mindgames. “I love working with students,” he said of his career. “I love the potential of what students have in front of them.”

After sharing a few anecdotes in life that has led him to his success today, Penneau made it clear that he believes every individual has more potential for themselves than they realize. “Our mind does very powerful things to us, and I really believe that,” he explained during his presentation. “We have a preset mind of the way things should be.”

Penneau went on to further stress his belief of challenging oneself. “We go through life and we get stuck. Why?” he questioned. “The person you are determines your future.”

Penneau strongly encouraged that students “move beyond the classroom,” and recommended they join a club or organization that was out of their comfort zone, such as student government.

To prove his point, Penneau shared his story of when he once interviewed for an on-campus job as a college student, but did get it, due in part to his lack of knowledge in the LGTB Organization. After his interview, he joined the organization.

“I never thought I’d want to join because I’m not LGTB,” he stated, but he knew if he wasn’t cultured, he’d be irrelevant in the job market.

Penneau is a firm believer in self-awareness; it motivates us; and starts with thoughts, he stated, and as far as one’s own success goes, Penneau explained, there is “no formula other than asking questions and working really hard.”

“The only thing I can do (for students) is plant a seed.”

For more information about Penneau, or his “Take Back College” philosophy, go to www.takebackcollege.com.

PTC named leader in $18 million consortium grant

Pine Technical College has received an $18.3 million four-college, multi-state consortium grant in part of an effort to expand demand-driven skills training, and strengthen employer partnerships. The Obama Administration made the announcement of the $474.5 million in grants to community and technical colleges across the U.S. on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

“The grants are part of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training grant program, a multiyear, nearly $2 billion initiative to expand targeted training programs for unemployed workers, especially those impacted by foreign trade,” explained a press release from the U.S. Department of Labor.

This award will allow PTC to begin offering programs such as: cybersecurity, mobile applications development for the iPhone, iPad and Android markets, and IT network training with Microsoft and Cisco certifications.

All six schools awarded in Minnesota are part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system. PTC was named the consortium leader for the Rural Information Technology Alliance (RITA) grant. Members of this consortium are North Central Texas College, Central Lakes College, and Ridgewater College. The other Minnesota schools awarded were Century College, for the Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics consortium, and Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical, for the Mississippi River Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics consortium (MRTDL). 

The consortium amount for Pine Technical College and its members totals $18,317,022, with an industry focus of Information Technology. PTC will receive $6,898,193 of the $18+ million. PTC President Dr. Robert Musgrove explained that this particular consortium is focused on meeting the rural employment needs in information technology, which will allow employees to stay in their localities. 

There is a shortage of IT resources in rural areas, and with this grant, the four schools, along with allied workforce centers, industry partners, and IT employers will work to implement a project that addresses critical rural IT needs in the workforce. “Together, we can achieve more collectively,” said Musgrove, who also noted that the creating and writing of the RITA grant was “very much a collaborative effort.”

To fulfill this project, the schools will upgrade college programs, construct career ladders, work to remove barriers to the TAA-eligible workers and other adult workforce center clients, and find high-wage employment. Along with this project, the program will develop or expand a range of IT programs that will be available at all colleges, on-site, online, or by hybridized solutions.  Each program is designed for completion within two years, and has various entry and exit points.

"In the 8th District, I'm particularly pleased to see Pine Technical College in Pine City and Central Lakes College in Brainerd receiving a combined total of just under $10 million to boost their already highly successful education and career training programs," said Representative Rick Nolan in a statement issued by the Minnesota Congressional Delegation Sept. 19.  "What a boost for those institutions, their students and faculty, and the local communities that have been so supportive."

These grants are the third installment of a nearly $2 billion community college initiative, and the four-year grant will begin Oct. 1, 2013.     

PTC offers many student clubs; check them out

Pine Technical College may be nestled within the small, quaint, community of Pine City, but it offers a large variety of opportunities for our fellow Pines.

Through PTC’s clubs, students can join one of two honor societies, become involved with PTC’s student government (Student Senate), enhance their entrepreneurship skills within the CEO Club, and learn leadership skills, as well as gain more access to scholarships.

Students who enjoy numbers or technology may be interested in the annual Pi Day celebration, and partaking in math puzzles through the Math Club. Or, through the Computer Club, students can take the opportunity to learn and discover new and current concepts in the fields of computer science and robotics.

Environmental responsibility and healthy living are important, so the Evergreen Club may be the right fit for some Pines, while developing a high standard of moral, ethical, and safe health care providers through the Nursing Club may be of interest to others.

Some students may want to enhance their student self-worth and employability skills for future careers through technical training, competitions, projects, and team building, and can do so by joining SkillsUSA.

And PTC students who enjoy hitting the shooting range can look to promote shooting by fielding shotgun, rifle and handgun teams in the Shooters Association.

“We have many clubs and student organizations on campus, so there is something for everyone. And if there is not something for you, you can always start your own club or organization,” said Student Senate Advisor Amanda Spencer.  “It’s a great way to meet new people and get involved on campus.”

For more information on any of these clubs, and how to join them, visit www.pinetech.edu/student-life/student-clubs, or go to Pine Technical College’s website homepage and click on Student Life on the top left. 

Get to know staff and faculty through art and hobbies

Do you ever wonder what Pine Technical College’s staff and faculty are up to when they’re not on campus?

This semester, the community of Pine Tech has taken the opportunity to share with fellow Pines hobbies, crafts, and artwork that keep them busy when they’re away.

Take a walk through the main hallway and you’ll find on display many items from the PTC staff. Some items include hobbies from PTC President Dr. Robert Musgrove, such as canned goods from his garden and maple syrup, wine bottle lights (made by his wife), and memorabilia from his home state of Texas.

Other pieces from staff include handmade quilts, hardanger and Brazilian embroidery, an outfit, jewelry, a canoe paddle, and a published book.

On the opposite side of campus is another display case filled with paintings, photography, scrapbooking, and ceramics.

Stop on by and see just what some of our staff and faculty enjoy outside of Pine Technical College.

Temporary Disability Coordinator Katie Krier begins to put hobbies/art display together. 

Main hallway display

Paintings/photography display

Paintings/photography display

Fall Jump Start event welcomes new students

PTC’s Fall Jump Start event was a success! On Thursday, Aug. 22, Pine Technical College staff,faculty, and some students were on hand to welcome new students to the Pine Tech family.

Fall Jump Start is an event that invites new students to stop by with their family and friends one evening before the first day of school. This event allows the students to obtain their parking permit, secure a locker, access their student email account, and buy books beforehand so that they may have a less hectic start the following week.

That evening, students, along with their families and friends, were greeted at the door by members of Student Affairs, some popcorn, and a chance to win a door prize. The main hallway was lined up with booths of support services such as Disability and Counseling services, the Student-Parent Success Program, Childcare Aware, and the student group, Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization. “We want to show the new students what we have to offer them,” said Sarah Hammel, CEO President and fellow PTC student. “Students can join our organization, or host a booth at our upcoming business expo in March.”

Students were also able to take the time to locate their classrooms, meet some PTC staff, and enjoy ice cream and treats in the student lounge.

“We include various campus or community resources on campus so that they are more aware of what is available to them,” informed Ching Ching Olson, Student Success Coordinator. “All in all, it is an opportunity for them to get to know PTC staff members and all its resources.”

After two success years of having this event, and reaching nearly 2/3 of our new entering students this fall, PTC plans on continuing. We will look to host this event again right before the start of fall semester 2014.

Dean of Student Affairs, Paula Hoffman, was on-hand in the LRTC to assist students with their new emails, D2L, and more.

Student Success Coordinator Ching Ching Olson gets popcorn ready for students and their families.

Janis Wegner of the Business Offices was available to answer students' questions about their Higher One accounts, and more.

Fellow Pine, and Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization President discusses a hallway display to a new student.

Student Affairs staff member Mandi Sinell helps a new student get her parking permit.

Child Care Aware says goodbye to Erinn Shaw; welcomes Anne Kubesh

Pine Technical College’s Child Care Aware will welcome a new Region 7E Coordinator to their team.

Beginning September 3, 2013, Anne Kubesh will take over the Coordinator position, filling the vacancy left by Erinn Shaw, who has been reassigned to the Duluth/Hermantown office.

Kubesh has been a part of the PTC team for years now, first as a student and President of Student Senate. This past spring, Kubesh graduated from PTC’s Early Childhood Program and recently took the position of Student-Parent Support Coordinator. Her student-parent coordinator position will end August 31. (News on the status of the Student-Parent Grant will be forthcoming.)

We look forward to her joining our program on September 3, 2013,” said Wendy Walburg, District Director. “Among other things, Anne will be providing coaching and technical assistance to child care providers as they prepare to receive their Parent Aware Rating. Parent Aware is Minnesota’s new Quality Rating and Improvement System for child care. Welcome, Anne.”

New opportunity for RNs! Complete your B.S. through Bethel University at PTC!

There is an exciting new opportunity for RNs! Beginning August 22, 2013, RNs can finish their B.S. in Nursing through Bethel University right here at Pine Technical College!

Pine Tech will be the host site for the class, which will be online plus classroom sessions about every five weeks. Professors from Bethel University will teach at PTC, and the PTC class will broadcast live in two-way interactive television to the following remote sites:

Kanabec County Courthouse in Mora;

Mille Lacs Health System Hospital in Onamia;

St. Croix Regional Medical Center in St. Croix Falls, Wis.

For more information, contact Bethel University Admissions Office at 651-638-6400.

PTC offers exciting new science class for fall semester!

Want to learn more about our ecosystems, our environment, and human impact?

New this fall, Pine Technical College is offering Introduction to Environmental Science (ENSC 1250). The class is 3 credits and fulfills Minnesota Transfer Curriculum Goals #3 Natural Science and #10 People Environment.

This course will introduce students to the discipline of Environmental Science through:

•Exploration of the relationship of humans to their environment from local, regional, and global perspectives.

•Observation of natural ecosystems and examination of the impact of human activity on natural resources and environmental quality, environmental ethics, and strategies to maintain a sustainable biosphere. 

This new class will be offered two days a week: Mondays (lecture/lab from 9 -11:55 a.m.) and Wednesdays (lecture 9 to 10:55 a.m.).

For further information, contact Eric Jensen at: jensene@pinetech.edu.

PTC Student Senate evolves with first-time events

Pine Technical College’s Student Senate has taken on some new excitement: a new President-elect, a trip to the Minnesota State College Student Association Summit, and summer trips to the Como Zoo and Wild Mountain.

Former Student Senate President Anne Kubesh graduated in May, leaving the President seat vacant. A campus-wide election was held in April, and after votes were tallied, Tim Soderbeck was named President-elect. He will assume his new position in late August, when fall semester begins. “It was bittersweet this spring with graduation and leaving Student Senate, but I know it’s in good hands with Tim as the new President,” remarked Kubesh.

As Student Senate President, Soderbeck hopes to see more participation from PTC clubs, and plans to utilize the Student Life Board located in the student lounge. “I’m very excited for this year,” Soderbeck stated.

Photo: Former Student Senate President Anne Kubesh and President-Elect Tim Soderbeck enjoy PTC’s Spring Fling back in May.

In March, three members of the PTC Student Senate and Staff Advisor attended the MSCSA third annual summit in Washington D.C. This was the first time PTC students have attended the summit.

Student Senate Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, Treasurer April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, and Voting Senator Kaylynn Anderson spent three days at the nation’s capital where they participated in mock meetings before meeting and engaging with Representatives Al Franken and Rick Nolan at the federal level.  During their meetings they were able to ask questions, and they discussed student issues with Franken and Nolan such as Pell Grants and student-loan rates.

“It was very informative,” Sheldon said about participating in government meetings at such a high level, and learning what students can do for themselves and their school.  “There was some very exciting stuff with MSCSA,” she continued.

Sheldon was also elected to serve PTC as the Alternate Governing Council Representative for the North Central region of the MSCSA.

“It was a good experience for everyone,” noted Spencer of the trip. “The students learned a lot. MSCSA did a lot to prepare for it (the summit).”

Photo: Student Senate members (l to r) April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, and Kaylynn Anderson represent Pine Technical College at the third annual MSCSA summit in Washington D.C.

Also for the first time, the Student Senate has sponsored summertime activities. Back in June, PTC Senate members, students, and their families joined each other for a day of fun at Como Zoo. Approximately 60 people attended the outing.

On Friday, July 19 fun was had by Senate members, students and families at Wild Mountain.

“This year was the first year we’ve done summer activities, and they have been successful,” said Spencer. “The students seem to really enjoy them, and they are the reasons we put these events together.”

To find out more about the Minnesota State College Student Association, go to www.mscsa.org.

Fall Semester begins next month!

Fall Semester is right around the corner! Are you regiestered? Have you applied?

For students who have already registered, Fall TUITION is due by Monday, August 5, 2013. Please complete the 2013-2014 FAFSA, or make payment arrangements by August 5th.

The LAST day to apply is ONLINE is Friday, August 9.

PTC's Incubator project is well underway

Construction crews continue to make progress on the Pine Entrepreneurship Center and Technology Business Incubator project.  The project officially broke ground on April 1, 2013. The incubator will house and support hi-tech and light manufacturing entrepreneurs in the community, and, at the same time, the incubator will provide PTC students access to internships and practical experience in cutting-edge, hi-tech industry.

The incubator’s first tenants may begin operations from the center as early as December, 2013.

Check out the recent progress over a week’s span of the incubator.

Photos were taken by Pine Technical College President Robert Musgrove, Ph.D.

PTC's Laureen Williams takes on new role

Laureen Williams has accepted the Interim Director of Marketing and Admissions position, taking over for Danielle Chandonnet, who left after 4 years at Pine Technical College to pursue a new role.


“We will miss Danielle, and we wish her well with her new adventure,” said Dean of Student Affairs Paula Hoffman. Williams’ “skills, knowledge of PTC, and her experience with our internal processes will go a long way towards providing continuous service for our students and our department,” she continued.

Williams took over the reins on June 19.

“With my past 12 years at PTC, I am excited to take over where Danielle left off. My experience with curriculum and the processes at our campus are a natural fit for me. Please stop by and say hello!”

Williams’ former position, Student-Parent Support Coordinator, was accepted by Anne Kubesh.

2-year tuition freeze!

Are you thinking about continuing your education or getting back into school? Now is the best time to get enrolled and start your higher education journey at Pine Technical College.

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) has announced that there will be a two-year tuition freeze at all of the 31 MnSCU schools throughout the state.

In other words, no tuition increase at least until 2015. Tuition will remain the same for the next two years at all MnSCU schools. “We are freezing tuition to provide you with the continued opportunity to earn an affordable degree while keeping college debt levels as low as possible,” noted a MnSCU representative.

This freeze makes it a financially smart time to get enrolled at PTC, where you can earn a degree, certificate or diploma.

The freeze will begin fall 2013. For more information on our admissions process, contact the Student Affairs Office at 320-629-5100.

PTC welcomes Anne Kubesh to Student Affairs

Pine Technical College welcomes Anne Kubesh to the Student Affairs team as the Student-Parent Support Coordinator. Kubesh joined the team June 19 when she replaced Laureen Williams, who is now Interim Director of Marketing.

“Anne was selected because of her skills with connecting to students.  She has a talent for communicating to the student and making them feel welcome and comfortable,” explained Williams.  “Anne has been a part of the Student-Parent Grant program for over 1 ½ years as a Student Mentor and Parents’ Café facilitator.  Anne’s history with the program will be a huge asset to close the program at the end of August.”

Kubesh is a 2013 Pine Technical College graduate and is looking forward to taking on this new role, and making sure students feel welcome as they start their journey at PTC.  “I’m excited to join the team, and I look forward to working with students,” stated Kubesh.

More information on the new Interim Director of Marketing will follow. Check back for details!

Tutoring in the summer - a first

Summer semester is in full swing, and for the first time ever, the Academic Skills Center (ASC) at Pine Technical College is offering summer tutoring.  

So, why offer it now? “The ASC saw a need for summer tutoring and wanted to increase support services for students in summer. All tutoring is free and no appointment needed,” explained Erin White, Academic Skills Center Director.

It has only been three weeks into summer semester, but already tutor Morgan Richardson has seen many students utilize tutoring. “It’s almost even more busy than spring and fall,” said Richardson. 

This summer you can find Greg Johnson for accounting, English and math; Morgan Richardson for all science courses, math and English; and Vincent Zilka for CAD. The summer tutoring schedule is available online or right outside the Academic Skills Center, located in Room 129 in the LRTC.

PTC Campus Store now offers option to rent textbooks

The PTC Campus Store is offering a new, more inexpensive way to save on textbooks – by renting.

“Textbooks have always made up a large chunk of expenses students face every semester, and the cost of textbooks, which is already higher or more than what students expect, seem to go up in price nearly every semester,” says Janis Wegner, PTC Business Services Manager. “So, in an effort to lower textbook costs, we have decided to offer a textbook rental program,” Wegner explains.

One clear benefit of renting textbooks is the upfront savings – renting textbooks is cheaper, which translates into more savings for students. Another benefit is that renting guarantees students’ rented textbooks will be returned without question. With renting, students who wish to return their used textbooks at the end of the term have the guarantee the books will be accepted – in fact, returning them is required. With purchasing, students run the risk of not being able to sell the books back at the end of the semester, since often, instructors may decide to use different textbooks or new editions, eliminating the market that would have bought the returned course materials.

“This has got to be one of the best ways to save money during college,” says Sandi Oachs, Practical Nursing student. “I love the fact that I don't have to worry about selling the books back or selling them online once the class is over.”

The option to rent debuted this summer term, and while students have embraced the new program, Wegner cautions that students must be aware of the rules of the program.

“The rental program is really taking off, and students are embracing it, but I want to caution renters that not every course material is available for rent – for example, workbooks obviously are not rentable,” says Wegner. “Also, it’s not a payment plan – if the rented books are not returned on time, students will be charged the full price, on top of the rental.”

PHOTO at top: Practical Nursing student Sandi Oachs, an avid reader and textbook renter, discovers additional reading in the LRTC during the first week of summer term.

PTC's annual magazine, THE LINK, now available online

PTC proudly announces its annual magazine, THE LINK, is now available online. Read the current issue, plus take a trip back in time to review past issues from previous years. THE LINK always features interesting campus highlights and profiles of star students.

Artwork by Cassandra Spruit on display now through August

On display now through August, 2013, in what PTC has affectionately dubbed the “Pine Art Gallery,” are original works of art created by computer science student Cassandra Spruit. Spruit came to PTC in Aug., 2012, having transferred from Anoka-Ramsey Community College, where she began her academic career taking a variety of general education courses. However, Spruit says once she discovered PTC's programs in the computer sciences, she was inspired to pursue an education focused in information and computer science.

"I was drawn to PTC because, while I appreciate the value in gaining a comprehensive general education, I knew it was time to focus on a particular track," Spruit says. "Plus, of course, I am kind of a natural techie; after all, even my artistic side is influenced by the digital and hi-tech world," Spruit adds.

Today, Spruit is nurturing a budding career in graphic design and manages a small business in addition to taking courses in the computer science program. Most recently, Spruit designed a logo for a friend's startup film production company.

"I was always really into computers growing up, and also, I was always kind of artistic and creative," Spruit says. "When I got a really hi-tech tablet for Christmas in 2011, my skills really took off, and after spending time practicing and creating things with that, I began to consider a career in graphic design," Spruit explains.

Spruit also has become an important figure on the PTC campus, having served for the past two semesters as an alternate voting senator representing the Computer Club; and, Spruit recently was elected to serve the larger student body in the upcoming '13-'14 academic year as Student Senate Vice President.

Spruit is on track for a May, 2014 graduation with her A.S. in computer science and plans to transfer to St. Cloud State University to pursue a B.S. in applied computer science.

The Pine Art Gallery features works of original art created by established and/or emerging artists from the Pine Area, embracing the talent and creativity of Pine Technical College students and the larger Pine community. The exhibit changes seasonally, and many kinds of artworks are showcased, including paintings, photography, pottery, sculptures, sketches, wood carvings and more. If you are an artist from the Pine Area and wish to exhibit your works in the Pine Art Gallery, see the Pine Technical College Marketing Director in Student Affairs.

PTC prepares for tonight's record-setting graduation ceremony

With more than 200 students graduating in the 2012-13 academic year, Pine Technical College is preparing for its largest graduation ceremony in the college’s 48-year history. The ceremony will be held tonight at 7:30 p.m. in the Pine City High School gymnasium.

A combination of 215 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be awarded this year, and ceremony guest speakers include Lori and Traci Tapani, sisters and Co-Presidents of Wyoming Machine – a longtime PTC supporter and partner in economic advancement.

“Tonight's ceremony promises to be a momentous event, as we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates,” says PTC President Robert L. Musgrove, Ph.D. “During the ceremony, we recognize our graduates, highlight our tradition, college pride, and community spirit. We are so proud of our students and graduates, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements,” Musgrove adds.

The public is encouraged and welcome to attend in support of the graduates. A cake and coffee reception will follow the ceremony in the common area at PCHS.

PTC's Student Senate and Student-Parent Success program serve up fun at "Spring Fling"

Pine Technical College's Student Senate and Student-Parent Success program hosted and sponsored PTC's Second Annual Spring Fling last Friday evening. The event drew more than 200 students, staff, faculty, and their family members to the college's east lawn for games and a barbecue dinner, catered by Nicoll's Café.

"The Spring Fling is a special event to celebrate everyone's hard work throughout the year, and it marks the culmination of another academic year," says Laureen Williams, Director of the Student-Parent Success program. "It provides an opportunity for everyone to showcase their campus to their family members and, since it coincides with Finals Week, this event allows everyone to let off some steam, eat some delicious barbecue, and have some fun together in a no-stress environment," Williams adds.

All student clubs participated in the event by either organizing and hosting a game-station, or by assisting with planning the event. Games included a ring-toss, a bean-bag toss, fishing, remote-controlled robotics, and more. Additionally, attendees were able to pose in a photo booth and capture the event on film. All games, food, events, and prizes were free to attendees.

"We are pleased with the participation and turnout," says Tim Soderbeck, Student Senate Parliamentarian. "The Spring Fling is a big hit because of everyone involved in pulling it together. I'm already looking forward to next year's," Soderbeck adds.

PHOTOS at top, from top-down:

1. The event gets underway with set-up.
2. Event staff, Student Senate Parliamentarian Tim Soderbeck and Student Senate Secretary Morgan Richardson, monitor the event.
3. A family tries their hand at the fishing game.
4. A child operates a robot via a remote-control, with assistance from computer programming student Zach Ellingson.
5. A family tries their hand at the ring-toss game.
6. Children visit the Student-Parent Success program table and choose a few free books, with assistance from Laureen Williams, Program Director.