PTC's Ever Green Club brings holiday light recycling to Pine Area

The Pine Technical College student-run Ever Green Club has partnered with the Recycling Association of Minnesota to bring holiday light recycling to the Pine Area. Pine Area residents now may drop off their old holiday lights just inside the main entrance of Pine Technical College (look for the labeled box) now through the end of January, 2010. At that time, RAM representatives will pick up the lights and handle recycling.

"We heard about RAM establishing and growing a holiday light recycling program, and we wanted to be a drop-off site," said Heather Hanson Mead, Pine Technical College Ever Green Club President. "This kind of project is exactly what the Ever Green Club is all about," Mead added.

RAM, headquartered in St. Paul, is an association of recyclers around the state. RAM's Holiday Light Recycling Program is new, and drop-off sites are scattered around the state in Carlton, Duluth, Ely, Hutchinson, Mankato, Redwood Falls, St. Cloud and more. RAM announced they have collected and recycled 15,000 pounds of holiday lights since Dec. 3 this year.

Thanks to the efforts of PTC's Ever Green Club, Pine Technical College is the official collection site in Pine City for holiday lights recycling.

"I'm so happy students are getting involved!" said Ellen Telander, Executive Director of RAM.

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UPDATE: The holiday light recycling program came to a close at the end of Jan., and the PTC Ever Green Club collected more than 350 pounds of lights in just four weeks. After turning in this large amount from the Pine Area to RAM, RAM in turn recycled more than 50,000 pounds.

"Thanks to everyone who participated in the first Holiday Lights Recycling Program," Mead said. "We will make plans to do this again next holiday season," Mead added.

PTC students donate to Pine City Food Shelf

Pine Technical College Student Senate leaders packed up 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food items collected from students, staff, faculty and community-minded citizens and delivered it to the Pine City Food Shelf today, bringing the 2009 food drive to a close.

Student senate officers initiated the food drive in Oct. 2009, and food items have been stocked in the Student Senate Office since then.

"This is the biggest food drive we've ever held," said Amanda Spencer, PTC Student Senate Vice President. "The Pine Technical College community is happy give to the local food shelf that will help those who are less fortunate, especially during the holidays," Spencer added.


Above: Donated food items fill up a trailer at Pine Technical College.


Above: Pine Technical College Student Senate Officer Dusty Leis shows off the full trailer of donated food items.


Above: Pine Technical College Student Senate officers Amy Smyser, Dusty Leis and Jessica Houghton stand before the fully loaded trailer of donated food items.

Robot debuts in PTC machine lab

The machine lab at PTC has a new resident -- a FANUC System R-30iA Mate, a six axis robotic arm with vision guidance, which allows the arm to locate parts in a production setting. The robot was purchased through a grant PTC was awarded by the Department of Labor, and in addition to being a useful addition in the machine lab, it serves as part of a traveling exhibit that showcases manufacturing careers.

"This is a top-of-the-line machine. It will be used for training and to load and unload parts in a machine such as a lathe or mill," says Dave Defenbaugh, PTC Gunsmithing Instructor. "It can be set up with a welding head, grippers and/or set up with magnets, suction cups and more," adds Defenbaugh.

Defenbaugh says most robots are four-axis machines, whereas the new PTC robot is a six-axis machine. "So, it performs like our own arms, wrists and hands," Defenbaugh explains.

For a video demonstration, visit www.fanucrobotics.com.


Photo: PTC's new FANUC System R-30iA Mate in the machine lab.

Financial Aid and Career Info Night, coming Dec. 7

Have questions about Financial Aid? Don't know how to do the FAFSA? Don't know what a FAFSA is? Not sure what you want to be when you grow up? If this sounds like you... You need to come to "Financial Aid and Career Info Night!" The event will give you guidance and help from PTC's excellent staff and faculty regarding Financial Aid and rewarding careers that are just right for you.

Part I: "Financial Aid Info and FAFSA Help"
-- Date: Mon. Dec. 7
-- Time: 5 to 6 p.m. -- Place: PTC, Room 100

Part II: "Career Info"
-- Date: Mon. Dec. 7
-- Time: 6 to 7 p.m. -- Place: PTC, Room 70

For more information, call 320-629-5100.

Congratulations to three "Bravo Award" winners!

Congratulations are in order for three Pine Technical College staff members: Tom Melin, Information Technology, Steve Lange, Director of Facilities, and Dave Pixley, Facilities. Each was nominated for the monthly "Bravo Award" by anonymous coworkers.

Says the nominator of Melin, "Tom is always here ASAP when we need him, and he goes above and beyond to help us with our IT needs. Most recently, when the Student Affairs office was reconfigured, he not only got things done quickly but had great advice in how we could arrange things efficiently. He even moved the heavy stuff for us!"

Says the nominator of Lange and Pixley in Facilities, "Steve and Dave not only helped with the new layout of the office, but both were an integral part in the design and getting it done! Again, the PTC maintenance crew is always there ASAP, especially with things that involve helping our students."

Lange is awarded with the "Employee of the Month" premier parking space during the month of December.


Photo, L to R: Lange, Melin, Pixley.

Pine Technical College Foundation adopts new logo

The Pine Technical College Foundation Board voted in favor and adopted a new logo at their Nov. 19 board meeting. The logo will be used as the organization’s primary visual identifying icon and will appear on all Foundation brochures, flyers and correspondence.

"Previously, the Foundation was using a logo that did not match the College logo," said Dani Chandonnet, Pine Technical College Director of Marketing. "Looking at the old Foundation logo, it appeared as though the Foundation was a separate organization and not necessarily affiliated with the College. Now, with the new logo, the Foundation is clearly associated with Pine Technical College,” Chandonnet added.

The Pine Technical College logo, or "house logo," was revamped and updated in 2007 and is a prominent feature in all print and electronic communication pieces. The house logo features a graphic image of three aligned, stylized pine trees with the text, "Pine Technical College," and the image and text together comprise the College’s official logo.

"The new Foundation logo is a kind of spinoff of the house logo," Chandonnet said. "The Foundation logo is actually the PTC house logo with 'Foundation' written underneath the text 'Pine Technical College,'" Chandonnet explained. "Additionally, in the future, should more PTC departments wish to develop and use their own logos, this formatting is the template those departments will follow – this template provides consistency in the College’s overall image and message while maintaining unity among our many departments, functions and services," Chandonnet added.

"It’s important that the Foundation’s identity and image match the College," said Foundation Board President Lori Tapani. "The Foundation logo is now a part of the family of PTC logos, and it’s much more stylized and catchy for easy identification and quick memory recall," Tapani added.

PTC Veterans Center helps student veterans transition to college

With more than 50 veterans on campus, the Veterans Center at Pine Technical College is committed to providing student veterans a successful and fulfilling educational experience. The center offers a wide array of services such as social events, GI Bill information, peer support, counseling and more.

"A big issue facing veterans is social isolation – many have difficulty adjusting to civilian life, and even more have difficulty adjusting to college life," says Doug Davis, PTC Veterans Liaison. "The center is open to all our brave men and women from any service branch who may have served in war or peace. We want to help them make the transition," Davis adds.

Davis, a Vietnam War Veteran, served in the Marine Corps from 1964 to ’68 and began his career in academia with PTC in ’91. Davis manages the center with assistance from a representative with Minnesota Veterans Affairs, Ray Bohn. Bohn is available at the center once a week to help student veterans with education benefits and financial resources.

"Our main focus is to serve as a resource center for student veterans. We’re a casual, drop-in center, and students may walk in or make an appointment if they wish," Davis says. "And, although many of our student veterans have recently returned from Iraq or Afghanistan, we welcome all veterans from any era as well as their spouses and dependents. We are a resource and support center," Davis adds.

The PTC Veterans Center is open 12 hours a week, typically Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call PTC's main number, 320-629-5100 or the Veterans Center directly, 320-629-5181.


Photo: Doug Davis welcomes visitors to the PTC Veterans Center.

PTC helps launch region-wide healthcare career awareness event

Nearly 500 junior and senior high school students will attend a daylong healthcare career awareness event, "High Demand Healthcare Careers in Your Community: A Crash Course," on Nov. 20 at the Anoka-Ramsey Community College – Cambridge campus. The event will provide information on job outlooks, salaries and necessary training regarding 12 key healthcare careers in high demand in Minnesota’s east central region.

"This is the first event the Healthcare Alliance is hosting, and the goal is to offer high school students an exciting look at healthcare careers," said Stefanie Schroeder, Healthcare Alliance Program Coordinator. "There are significant workforce shortages in the healthcare industry across East Central Minnesota, and it's part of the Alliance’s mission to improve the quality and quantity of healthcare workers in the region. It will definitely spark interest in healthcare careers," Schroeder added.

High school students from Braham, Cambridge-Isanti, Mora, North Branch and Princeton school districts are scheduled to attend the event, which is designed to generate interest in pursuing medical careers requiring certificates, diplomas or associate or bachelor degrees. Students will receive information about each key career, post-secondary education options and local scholarship information.

“The day’s activities will be a hands-on, engaging and theatrical experience for students,” Schroeder said.

The event is spearheaded by the Healthcare Alliance, a consortium of area school districts, higher education institutions, healthcare providers and the workforce center system determined to strengthen and ensure a strong, qualified healthcare workforce is available now and into the future for East Central Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Partners in the Healthcare Alliance and event sponsors include Pine Technical College, Anoka-Ramsey Community College, Allina Medical Transportation, Braham Area High School, Cambridge Medical Center, Cambridge-Isanti High School, Fairview Lakes Medical Center, HealthForce Minnesota, Kanabec Hospital and North Branch Area High School.

Check out the Healthcare Alliance on Facebook!

Student Appreciation Day, "Catch-Up Day," and Open House event make a busy week

With Student Appreciation Day, "Catch-Up Day," and the Third Annual PTC Open House all taking place within two days, PTC students, staff and faculty are wrapping up a particularly busy week.

On Tues., the PTC Student Senate sponsored and hosted the College's first-ever Student Appreciation Day. The day's activities included a free lunch of grilled brats and dogs served by President Musgrove and Dean of Student Affairs Nancy Mach, followed by Wii bowling and karaoke at Wagon Master's Eatery in downtown Pine City. More than 100 students participated in the luncheon, and more than 40 students and staff followed the party to Wagon Master's including President Musgrove and other administrators.

"Student Appreciation Day is a way for staff, faculty and the Student Senate to show and remind all PTC students they are appreciated," Student Senate Vice President Amanda Spencer said. "And, it comes so on time -- right at the mid-term and right when we can use a good party!" Spencer added.

Wed. brought "Catch-Up Day," and the Third Annual PTC Open House. Catch-Up Day, a day for students to catch up with their tutors and advisors, is a day built into the Academic Calendar -- a planned day with no classes. Staff rewarded students "caught" studying on every half-hour with a prize. Prizes given out included imprinted PTC mugs and bookbags.


Photo: President Musgrove and Dean of Student Affairs Nancy Mach serve food in the Student Lounge during Catch-Up Day.

The annual open house event kicked off at 5 p.m. on Wed., and featured "PTC mini-movies" in the auditorium with old-fashioned popcorn. All faculty members and advisors were on hand to show off classrooms and labs and answer questions about enrollment, programs, different degrees and career options. The event was open to the public, and nearly 150 were in attendance.


Photo: The Third Annual PTC Open House saw a record turnout.

"Catch-Up Day" coming Oct. 28

The Pine Technical College academic calendar lists Wed. Oct. 28 as "Student Advising Day," but this year, there's a new twist on the mid-term tradition.

"We've always scheduled a day for student advising, and it typically lands right around the mid-term," Dean of Student Affairs Nancy Mach said. "It's a day where students catch up with their advisors and a day where students catch up with their tutors, plus they can catch study tips and test-taking tips via special workshops or sessions on this day. Therefore, we're calling it 'Catch-Up Day!'" Mach explained.

Catch-Up Day events will start at 9 a.m. Although the day is not a mandatory day for students, all staff, faculty and advisors will be on hand. Catch-Up Day will lead seamlessly into the scheduled evening event, the College's Third Annual Open House, beginning at 5 p.m.

Clever PTC staffers will be serving free food with ketchup throughout Catch-Up Day, and prizes will be awarded every half-hour for students "caught" studying. For more information regarding the day's schedule of events, call 320-629-5100.

Pine Technical College receives 300K grant

The Department of Education awarded Pine Technical College a $300,000 grant in October, 2009 to be used for the creation of an engaging computer game to support learners in developmental math.

John Heckman, Director of the Johnson Center for Simulation at Pine Technical College, is partnering with the Northeast Higher Education District and Mesabi Range Community and Technical College to bring the project to fruition. Heckman will guide the project’s technical development while NEHED, MRCTC and PTC will provide subject matter expertise.

"A big challenge for many people entering the world of higher education is that meeting the mathematics requirements can be very difficult," Heckman said. "Most new students need remedial coursework to prepare for intermediate and college algebra," Heckman added.

Heckman indicates it will take about three years to complete the project, though some sections of the game may be ready for testing by next fall.

The U.S. Department of Education awarded $11.25 million in grants for 29 projects. The grants are to benefit displaced and under-employed workers pursuing degrees or credentials in community or technical colleges, and its funded projects focus on preparing adult learners with marketable skills and knowledge to address employer needs in high-growth occupations.

"A relatively small number of grants were awarded, and ours was the only one in Minnesota," Heckman noted.

Pine Technical College to host Open House event

Pine Technical College will host Set Your Career in Motion: Third Annual Open House, Wed. Oct. 28, 5 to 8 p.m. at the College. The event is open to current and prospective students and their families, business and industry partners, PTC Foundation donors and the public. In its third year, the event is predicted to draw about 100 attendees.

"This is anyone and everyone’s chance to tour the College, meet instructors, talk to advisors and College administrators, and get valuable program and career counseling on the spot," said Nancy Mach, Dean of Student Affairs. "It’s not to be missed!" Mach added.

Set Your Career in Motion: Third Annual Open House will be held at Pine Technical College, 900 Fourth St. SE, Pine City. Refreshments will be served, and valuable door prizes will be given to several lucky winners.

"We host the event to showcase how important and attainable higher education is," said Dani Chandonnet, Director of Admissions. "On top of that, this is the College’s chance to tour its equipped labs and classrooms, and to introduce our knowledgeable and helpful faculty and staff members to students, new students and their families and friends," Chandonnet added.

Chemistry class plays ball

Students in Chemistry instructor Alexis Grinde's CHEM 1250, Principles of Chemistry I, made their own bouncing polymer balls using borax, glue, cornstarch, water and a few other materials, to gain an understanding of how differing chemical compositions affect the bounciness of the polymer balls as well as other characteristics.

Balls have been toys practically forever, but the bouncing ball is a more recent innovation. Bouncing balls were originally made of natural rubber, though now bouncing balls can be made of plastics and other polymers or even treated leather.

The bouncing ball in Grinde's chemistry lab is made from a polymer. Polymers are molecules made up of repeating chemical units. Glue contains the polymer polyvinyl acetate (PVA), which cross-links to itself when reacted with borax.




Photos: Chemistry students make bouncing polymer balls in the lab.

PTC's "roadshow" is a hit

Pine Technical College admissions staff has been traveling and representing PTC at various college fairs and public events; the "PTC roadshow" has increased the College's visibility and reach. You might have seen us at any of these events in September or October:

• College Fair at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College at Rice Lake;
• College Fair at Forest Lake High School;
• College Fair at the Pine City armory;
• National College Fair at the Minneapolis Convention Center, a two-day event;
• Guest presenting at the Hinckley Job Club;
• Guest presenting at the Chisago City Job Club;
• Guest presenting at the Milaca Job Club.

Or, catch the PTC roadshow at any of these upcoming events:

• College Fair at Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, Oct. 19;
• College Fair at St. Francis High School, Oct. 22;
• College Fair at Cambridge-Isanti High School, Oct. 23.

Congratulations, Janis Wegner, new CFO

Janis Wegner will be the new CFO at Pine Technical College, a vacancy created when Ron Scherman, former CFO, retired in August after serving an excellent five+ years. The Search Committee, comprised of six current PTC staff and faculty members, arrived at the decision Sept. 23. Wegner formally was offered the position and accepted Sept. 24.

"We had a large and experienced pool of applicants and a strong group of interviewees," Pine Technical College President Robert Musgrove said. "We engaged in a lengthy analysis and discussion of the merits of our top two finalists, and after the interview process, we absolutely know Wegner brings the best mix of qualifications, skills and knowledge for this position," Musgrove added.

The Search Committee was assisted by Laura King, Vice Chancellor for Fiscal Affairs and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System CFO.

Wegner currently serves as Accounting Officer at Pine Technical College, a position she has held for five years.

"I am happy to take on this leadership role," Wegner said. "I am excited to be a part of the management at PTC as we grow," Wegner added.

Wegner will start as CFO on Sept. 28, 2009.

Pine Technical College to host college fair

Preparations are under way for the biggest annual college fair in east central Minnesota, to be held at the Pine City armory Fri. Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to noon. The Pine Technical College Office of Student Affairs is hosting the event which draws more than 1,000 high school students.

"Our annual college fair is always a hit," says Jodie Klinkhammer, Assistant to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Affairs Office Manager. "It’s a flurry of activity, and nearly every high school and alternative learning center in our region brings busloads of students for the valuable information available," Klinkhammer explains.

At the event, more than 55 area community colleges, technical colleges, private and public universities will be present to answer current and prospective students' and parents' questions about admissions, financial aid, transferring and more. In addition, all branches of the U.S. military will be present to answer questions regarding serving. The event is open to the public.

What: College Fair
Where: Pine City Armory, Hwy. 61
When: 9 a.m. to 12 noon
Date: Fri. Sept. 25
Who: Open to the public

For more information, call Jodie Klinkhammer at 320-629-5117 or e-mail: klinkhammerj@pinetech.edu.

Students "Clean and Feed!"

On Sept. 11, twelve ambitious students, staff and faculty members gathered to partipicate in the Inaugural Clean and Feed event. Sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa and the Ever Green Club, the students picked up litter along a stretch of I-35 and enjoyed a feast of wraps provided by Pam's Kitchen (the Pine Technical College Student Lounge), pop and sweets to follow.

"The event was a huge success!" said biology instructor Alexis Grinde. "There was not as much litter as we expected, but a lot of tires. It was a beautiful day, and it was so nice to have this group of students and PTC leaders pitch in." Grinde added.

Event participants included:

Mary Bistrom
Rob Fosaaen
Alexis Grinde
Heather Hansen Mead
Alex Kotchen
Kathy Krier
Andy Letourneau
Sandra Nelson
Amy Smyser
Amanda Spencer
Jamie Werner
Erin White

"I especially want to thank Kathy Krier and PTK for organizing the lunch and Amanda Spencer for being our driver," Grinde said.

Inaugural "Clean and Feed" event set for Fri. Sept. 11, 2009

YOU are invited to join Pine Technical College in its Inaugural "Clean and Feed Day!" The Pine Technical College Ever Green Club and Phi Theta Kappa are teaming up to host and sponsor this volunteer opportunity, Adopt-A-Highway event.

Ever Green Club members, Honor Society members and PTC students, staff and faculty are jumping in to clean a stretch of highway on Fri. Sept. 11 -- join us to help make the community a cleaner place! Plan for the event to take about two-to-three hours. Phi Theta Kappa will provide lunch for all volunteers.

-- Date: Fri. Sept. 11, 2009
-- Time: 9 a.m.
-- Place: Meet at the PTC auditorium (Room 20)
-- Bring: Sunscreen, bug spray, disposable gloves

"This is the first event of its kind that we’ve held, and it is not only aligned with the Ever Green Club’s mission, but it’s also a way for students to get some fresh air, hang out with other students and do something good for the environment, the community and themselves," said Heather Hansen Mead, President, Ever Green Club. "The Ever Green Club is proud to be behind this event," Hansen Mead added.

More information: Safety vests will be provided. In the case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for Sept. 18 at 9 a.m. For more information, e-mail Alexis Grinde: grindea@pinetech.edu.

How do I know if a career in science, healthcare, business, industry, the arts, social services… is right for me?

The Career Center at Pine Technical College is a valuable resource for students. For example, students can find information about average salaries earned in different careers, careers appropriate for particular majors, job placement information, job market conditions, tips for job hunting, job interview techniques and much more. Located in the Learning Resource and Technology Center (LRTC), the Career Center is designed for Pine Technical College students and alumni with the career decision-making process in mind.

"Regardless of where the student is in terms of career decision-making, the tools and resources within the Center are useful whether the student is just starting at PTC or graduating," said Kathy Arola, College Counselor and Instructor.

According to Arola, choosing a program to study in college can be difficult and confusing. Oftentimes, many students entering college feel overwhelmed since they are expected to commit to a program before they have begun to think in concrete terms about future career possibilities.

The PTC Career Center, managed by Arola, is a place where students can explore possible careers, discover interests in new programs and gain an understanding of the training, knowledge and skills necessary for a variety of careers.

"If a student is unsure about his or her career direction, undecided in his or her major or is looking for information about different careers, he or she can find that information in the Career Center," Arola said. "For example, if a student is wondering what kinds of careers are available for those with an A.S. degree in business administration – the Career Center is a good place to begin that research," Arola adds.

For more information about the Career Center at Pine Technical College or to arrange an appointment for career counseling, call Kathy Arola, 320-629-5135.


Photo: LPN student Randy Nowling researches information about healthcare careers in the PTC Career Center.

Star Alert will inform students, staff and faculty of emergenices

Star Alert Emergency Notification System
In the interest of promoting the safety of our campus community, Pine Technical College is implementing a new wireless emergency notification system, Star Alert™, for students, faculty and staff.

What Is Star Alert?
Star Alert emergency messages are sent through text mail and e-mail during emergencies that threaten life or safety and/or severely impact standard campus operations. The Star Alert system will only be used in emergency situations.

Who Can Register?
All members of the Pine Technical College community are encouraged to register for this valuable service. Star Alerts provide immediate emergency communication, and as a wireless notification system, they provide critical information if computers and telephones are compromised.

More Details
Notifications are brief and clearly identified as Star Alerts. They include information on the situation at hand, action to take and where to find additional information.

Register Now
Registration is free, quick and easy. Participants must be able to receive text or e-mail messages on their cell phones. The process also can be reversed if the service is no longer desired. Information submitted through the registration process will only be used for the Star Alert system.

Are you a PTC student wishing to subscribe to Star Alert?
Click here: Student Star Alert Registration

Are you a PTC faculty or staff member wishing to subscribe to Star Alert?
Click here: Faculty/Staff Star Alert Registration

Annual Fall In-Service features speakers, awards and a "Welcome Back" to faculty

Each Fall, before the new academic semester gets underway, all Pine Technical College faculty and staff members gather for the In-Service -- an assembly, whereby all PTC employees get up-to-speed on new policies, go over and get refreshed on old policies, meet new staff and faculty members and of course enjoy a PTC lunch together.

Highlights from the Fall 2009 In-Service included a "Welcome Back" presentation from President Musgrove complete with facts, figures, graphs and comparisons depicting the College's tremendous growth in enrollment and services over the years; a presentation on "Community and Diversity," given by Stacy Johnston and Carl Crawford from the Division of Diversity and Intercultural Competency at Lake Superior College; a "Right to Know" presentation covering employees' right to know about hazardous substances in the workplace, given by Steve Vopatek of Vopatek Consulting; a presentation of "Length of Service" awards to PTC staff and faculty members who have served PTC for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years.

President Musgrove and department heads presented the Length of Service Awards together. The following PTC faculty and staff members received awards:

Department: Child Care Resource and Referral
Diane Evenson -- 30 years of service (retired)
Linda Bergstrand -- 5 years of service

Department: Employment and Training Center
Michael Murray -- 20 years of service
Steven Smith -- 20 years of service
Susan Welinski -- 20 years of service
Doreen Polzin -- 15 years of service
Kris Corelli -- 10 years of service

Department: Faculty
Renee Larsen -- 20 years of service
Larry Hendry -- 10 years of service
Stacy Foster -- 5 years of service
Marcella Sylvester -- 5 years of service
Chris York -- 5 years of service

Department: Media Center (LRTC)
Ron McGriff -- 5 years of service

Department: Information Technology
Thomas Melin -- 10 years of service

Department: Business Office
Janis Wegner -- 5 years of service

Department: Continuing Education and Customized Training
Margery Fagerstrom -- 15 years of service

The Fall, 2009 Annual In-Service marks the start of the new term. Following the lineup of events and presentations, faculty members reported to their offices to round out their planning for the new semester and to meet many new students that were on campus early.

Welcome, Erin White, new Academic Skills Center Director

Erin White will be joining the Pine Technical College Student Affairs Office as Director of the Academic Skills Center. White starts Aug. 19 and will manage all aspects of the Access, Opportunity and Success grant.

White's first tasks will be to determine which academic areas require tutoring support and hire and train peer tutors. White also will arrange and provide other academic services to support student learning.

White is not new to Pine Technical College, as she previously served the Student Affairs Office in a part-time role as a Marketing and Recruitment Specialist. White brings seven years of experience in disability services support, tutoring, special accommodations and student advising at Lake Superior College, and she most recently served as a Financial Aid Specialist at Century College.

White's office is located in the Learning Resource Technology Center (LRTC). The entire Student Affairs Office and PTC family warmly welcomes back White.

Art exhibit debuts on campus

New works of original art, created by established and emerging artists in the community, will be on display in the enclosed glass case/exhibit near the east entrance. Artworks will be featured routinely, and the display will be changed at the start of each semester.

Already on display is "Chef Ramsey," a welded sculpture created by Pine City resident Adam Klinkhammer. Klinkhammer's piece took first place at the Rum River Arts Festival in June.

"I am proud to have my sculpture exhibited, and I'd like to encourage other artists to volunteer pieces to display," Klinkhammer said. "It makes sense to display artistic, expressive and inspiring pieces of art at our local College," Klinkhammer added.

The Pine Technical College Marketing Department is spearheading the new exhibit and seeks additional artworks to include in the display.

"We'd love to include more pieces in the exhibit," Director of Marketing and Admissions Dani Chandonnet said. "Any student or local artist interested in displaying sculptures, pottery, wood carvings, paintings or sketches should call us to make arrangements," Chandonnet added.

The College plans to change the exhibit's pieces each semester to give new artists a chance to display their works while giving the exhibit a fresh look at the start of each term. As a result, students and College visitors will discover a mini art gallery directly on campus.

"This project embraces the talent and creativity of our students and community," Chandonnet said.

To contribute to the exhibit or for more information, call 320-629-5114.


Photo: "Chef Ramsey" on display at Pine Technical College.

College under construction: New boilers, new HVAC system

Pine Technical College is in the midst of a comprehensive construction project. The "boiler project," as it has become known, involves converting the College's 30+ year-old steam boilers to hot water boilers.

The main building, constructed in 1965, has relied on its original, trusty steam boiler and a second steam boiler (added in 1978) until now, and it is anticipated the conversion will save the College's facilities budget approximately 30 percent annually.

"The new boilers will run more efficiently," said Steve Lange, Pine Technical College Physical Plant Supervisor. "Plus, the savings generated from this project are timely, given the year's reduced operating budget," Lange added.

In addition to updating the boilers, the College also is overhauling its heating, ventilation and air conditioning system on the west side of the building. This additional project will result in improved air quality, ventilation and energy efficiency for all offices and classrooms along the building's west side.

Construction on both projects began the week of July 20. Engineering and mechanical firms submitted competitive bids, and LBP Mechanical of Minneapolis was selected.

The project is to be completed in phases with the majority of construction on schedule for completion before Fall term classes start Aug. 24. All phases and all construction will be completed by mid-November at the latest.

Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director gets back to business

For the past six months, the Office of the President at Pine Technical College "borrowed" Becky Schueller, Executive Director of the Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce, to serve as Interim Assistant to the President. The Office of the President had been conducting a search to fill the permanent position of Executive Assistant to the President, and during the transition, Schueller continued to serve in her usual role with the Chamber of Commerce in addition to filling in with the Office of the President from Jan. 5 through July 10, 2009.

"The Chamber and the College always have had a great relationship, and I was happy to work with Dr. Musgrove," Schueller said. "Dr. Musgrove and the College are actively involved with the Chamber and in a number of alliances serving the manufacturing, health care and economic development needs for this region, so it just made sense that I pitch in and help," Schueller added.

Since the President's office hired Alison Holland as its permanent Executive Assistant to the President in July, Schueller is now getting back to business in her usual role as Executive Director of the Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce -- a position she held since April, 2006.

"Becky was such an asset to this office during her six months with us," President Robert Musgrove said. "I've always enjoyed collaborating on community projects with her, and it was a pleasure to have her direct assistance during our transition," Musgrove added.

Currently, Schueller has her hands full with coordinating the Chamber's participation in the Pine County Fair and parade. Additionally, Schueller works with the Downtown Leadership Group, Pine City Horizons Team and serves on several committees and boards including the Minnesota Design Team Visit Steering Committee, the Pine City Heritage Players Board and the Pine City Center for the Arts Board.

The Pine Technical College community thanks Schueller for her assistance and work during the past six months, and the College also looks forward to continuing a mutually beneficial relationship with the Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce.

PTC welcomes Marlene Mixa

PTC welcomes Marlene Mixa, Outreach Coordinator for the Community Based Jobs Training (CBJT) grant project. Mixa began work at PTC on July 6, and in her role, she works to facilitate interactions among academic staff, industry stakeholders, community partners and new and prospective students serviced by the grant. The grant is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and targets education and training for careers in advanced manufacturing.

"I’m very excited about the CBJT grant and what it means to both Pine Technical College and the community," Mixa said. "I’ve already had a chance to meet some of our local industry partners, and I’m really looking forward to introducing students to career opportunities in advanced manufacturing through new and existing PTC programs," Mixa added.

Mixa holds a BA in chemistry from Carleton College in Northfield and a PhD in inorganic chemistry from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. Mixa comes to PTC with more than 20 years of industry experience in research and product development for paper companies in Maryland, Kentucky and Minnesota. Mixa also has been involved in academia throughout her career and has served as a college instructor, a member and chair of various education advisory boards, an academic team coach and a student recruiter and mentor. Most recently, Mixa worked as a consultant for the colleges of the Northeast Higher Education District (NHED) to develop curriculum for industry-based technical programs and degrees and for customized training modules in areas of emerging technologies.

Pine Technical College Foundation awards $26,400 in scholarships

Concluding its Ninth Annual Bridging the Dream Scholarship Campaign, the Pine Technical College Foundation awarded a total of $26,400 to 32 deserving students.

Thanks to the donations of more than 60 individual and business donations, 24 full-time students received $1,000 and eight part-time students were awarded $300 scholarships. Recipients include students studying nursing, early childhood education, computer science, CNC operations, gunsmithing, public welfare financial work, accounting and health sciences at Pine Technical College. These students are from 22 area communities including Braham, Hinckley, North Branch, Pine City, Sandstone, Siren and St. Croix Falls.

The generosity of the Foundation’s donors will benefit several of the area’s dislocated workers seeking to gain new marketable skills to re-enter the workforce.

The Foundation asks you to consider joining its family of valued donors, including 27 of the College's own staff and faculty, in making dreams come true... one scholarship at a time.

Donation forms are available by contacting Alison Holland in the President's Office. (Call: 320-629-5140 or e-mail: hollanda@pinetech.edu.)

For a list of scholarship winners, click here.

Enrollment at Pine Technical College is on the rise

Pine Technical College is experiencing growth like no other year in the College’s history. Typical enrollment for a summer semester at PTC tops out at 200 students, and with 242 students enrolled this summer semester, the College experienced a dramatic increase of 21 percent. On top of the impressive leap in summer enrollment, PTC admissions staff is busy advising, admitting, testing, orienting and registering students for the fall 2009 semester at a near record-breaking pace.

"Enrollment has been increasing each year, but our most recent enrollment report shows a significant leap in numbers," Dean of Student Affairs Nancy Mach said. "The numbers are staggeringly good for the College, and we anticipate enrolling our largest class ever this fall semester," Mach added.

Growth may be due to current economic conditions since many new students indicated they have been laid off. Each semester, the College’s student body is comprised of a diverse mix of students from all walks of life, and since the onset of the recession, College administrators have noticed an increase in the amount of students who are "mid-career" looking at options to further their education, specialize or learn a new trade.

"The average age of a PTC student is 28," Director of Marketing and Admissions Dani Chandonnet said. "We admit younger students right out of high school, and we also admit many students who are mid-career looking to come back to school to learn additional skills or change careers completely," Chandonnet added.

College administrators have been responding to the increased demand in many ways; for example, new sections of popular classes are available, additional New Student Orientation sessions have been added to the calendar, more part-time and adjunct instructors have been hired and the position of Director of Financial Aid, formerly a .75 hour position, has become a full-time position.

"We are responding to the community’s demand," President Robert Musgrove said. "Unfortunately, many people in our community have time on their hands due to layoffs. But, they are using that time very wisely by going back to school so they will have the upper hand when the economy turns around," Musgrove added.

Classes for the fall, 2009 semester start Aug. 24, and the College is accepting applications through mid-August. Students applying should plan ahead to ensure all application materials including other college transcripts, financial aid paperwork and applicable test scores are on file and complete prior to the start of classes.

Attend "Financial Aid Info Night," July 27

Are you a PTC student with questions about Financial Aid?

Attend Financial Aid Info Night, and get help filling out your free application for federal student aid (FAFSA). PTC’s friendly and helpful staff will be on hand to answer questions and offer insight regarding the financial aid process.

Students and parents are welcome and encouraged to attend. Bring your FAFSA, bring your tax information (from last year), and let’s get down to business.

What: Financial Aid Info Night
Where: PTC Library
When: Mon. July 27, 6 p.m.
Who: All students planning to attend PTC in Fall, 2009 are invited.

Welcome, Shawn Reynolds, new PTC Financial Aid Director

Pine Technical College welcomes new Director of Financial Aid, Shawn Reynolds. Reynolds brings expertise in higher education, financial aid, finance and business administration and management.

"I am very excited to transition to Pine Technical College," Reynolds said. "I believe education is important, and I enjoy helping students attain resources to further their educational goals," Reynolds added.

Reynolds graduated from the University of Minnesota, Duluth, with a BBA (bachelor's of business administration) with an emphasis in human resources management and organizational management. Reynolds began his career in higher education with St. Olaf College as Student Accounts Manager. After serving in this role for more than four years, Reynolds transitioned to Anoka Technical College where he served as Financial Aid Officer for two and and a half years.

"We are delighted to have Shawn Reynolds on staff," said Nancy Mach, Dean of Student Affairs. "The entire Student Affairs team welcomes him," Mach added.

PTC welcomes Alison Holland to the president's office

Pine Technical College welcomes Alison Holland, Executive Assistant to President Robert Musgrove. Holland will begin work at PTC on Monday, July 6. This East Central Minnesota native most recently served as an administrative assistant at Mora High School. Prior to shifting her career into education, Holland cultivated her skills at The Rake Magazine, The Sportsman’s Guide, and Dance USA.

"I and the members of the hiring committee were very impressed with Holland's set of skills, attitude and qualifications," Musgrove said. "I look forward to introducing her to the rest our PTC family next week," Musgrove added.

Holland is a graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College and holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Dance. She is set to complete her M.A.L.S., Master of Arts in Liberal Studies, from Hamline University later this year. Holland said she is eager to utilize her talents in communication, records management, special event coordination and organizational administration at Pine Technical College.

"I’m proud to bring my experience and education to the 'team' at Pine Technical College," Holland said. "I look forward to assisting President Musgrove and making a positive impact on this important institution in our community," Holland added.

"Worm Wigwam" debuts in biology classroom

A new Worm Wigwam was installed in biology instructor Alexis Grinde's biology classroom/lab the week of June 8. The wigwam holds thousands of worms and is used to demonstrate the value and efficiency of composting.

"The Wigwam was purchased with biology money and serves to demonstrate chemical processes and nutrient cycling," Grinde said. "Plus, as an added benefit, the Ever Green Club is able to point to this as a premier example of composting," Grinde added.

In its mere two weeks in residence at Pine Technical College, the Wigwam already has composted more than 120 pounds of garbage and leftovers from the Student Lounge cafeteria. The worms eat about 30 pounds of food per day, such as fruit rinds. The Wigwam is an economical, odorless, vermicomposting system powered by worms.

In the diagram above (from www.wormwigwam.com), bedding and material are alternately layered by adding new layers on top. The worms continuously rise to feed on fresh layers, leaving a rich mixture of castings humus, worm cocoons, microorganisms and organic material in varying stages of decomposition behind. The end result -- the nutrient-rich vermicompost -- may eventually be reused as a form of garden fertilizer.

On top of bringing educational and environmental benefits, the Wigwam brings PTC financial benefits since the College pays less for waste removal services due to the work of the worms.

New furniture, more outlets in Student Lounge

Thanks to the Student Senate, the student lounge is equipped with more electrical outlets and is furnished with new, plush seating and endtables.

The seats come in shades of burgundy, blue, gray and gold and are arranged in the front lobby and throughout the lounge near the big-screen TV and in other locations.

With the additional electrical outlets and seating, the busy lounge will be even more busy this summer semester and fall. Many thanks to the Student Senate!

Alum donates valuable firearms to gunsmithing program

Pine Technical College alumnus and four-time World Champion Skeet Shooter Ed Schultz donated five firearms valued at more than $2,500 to the gunsmithing department. The firearms will be used by current gunsmithing students at various school-sponsored sporting events and Shooter's Association events.

"I learned so much from the gunsmithing courses I took at Pine Technical College, and it's nice I'm able to give back to the program in this way," Schultz said. "The firearms I donated are out of production, which makes them prime candidates for study and repair," Schultz added.

The gunsmithing department at Pine Technical College offers a certificate program, an advanced gunsmithing diploma program and beyond that, a prototyping diploma. All students, as part of the curriculum, build their own custom rifle. Additionally, students are trained in diverse areas such as woodworking, machining, manufacturing and business.

Gunsmithing student Christian Kolling wins scholarship

Pine Technical College and East Central Energy have partnered again in 2009 to offer a $1,000 scholarship to a PTC student. ECE has offered the scholarship program to students in its service area since 1988, and PTC students have consistently won the scholarship year after year.

This year’s recipient, Christian Kolling, is a student enrolled in the Pine Technical College gunsmithing program.

"This scholarship is really going to help me out. I am very happy to receive it," Kolling said. "I am thankful to ECE for the scholarship and Pine Technical College for the opportunity to pursue my diploma in gunsmithing," Kolling added.

ECE will be awarding a total of $60,000 in scholarships this year, and to date, the cooperative has awarded scholarships totaling near $500,000.

"These scholarships are available as the result of Capital Credits, which have remained unclaimed after several attempts to locate past members of the cooperative," said Jennifer Veeser, ECE Communications and Marketing Manager. "ECE is excited to be able to use this money for something as valuable as education," Veeser added.

Kolling and other scholarship winners must meet certain requirements, and winners are selected based on several criteria including prior academic achievement, community service and involvement and financial need. Additionally, the winners must be ECE members or a son or daughter of an ECE member.

Kolling and his family reside in Pine City and are active in the community. A member of the Pine Technical College Shooter’s Association and the association’s Director of Advertising, Kolling also coaches his daughter’s junior high school basketball team at Pine City Schools.

Pine Technical College is proud to partner with ECE to bring this welcome scholarship to so many PTC students over the years. East Central Energy www.eastcentralenergy.com is a member-owned electric cooperative that serves more than 57,000 homes, farms and businesses in east central Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. ECE provides electricity, high-speed Internet and long distance services, as well as community and business development and environmental services.

2009 graduation ceremony recognizes graduates, Teacher of the Year and Presidents' Awards

The 2009 Pine Technical College graduation ceremony was held at Pine City High School on Friday May 15, 2009 in front of a full house.

The ceremony began with Glenna Reierson on the piano playing the processional march. Nancy Mach, Dean of Student Affairs, gave opening remarks, followed by Mr. Jeff Ruth, Chapter President, Minnesota State College Faculty and Mr. Sean Dunaway, Pine Technical College Student Senate President with a welcome address.

Two prestigious awards are given each year -- the Teacher of the Year and the President's Award. For 2009, the award for the Pine Technical College Teacher of the Year went to Julie Shores, computer sciences and accounting instructor, and the President's Award, given to students who continuously earn a 4.0 grade-point-average during their entire academic career at Pine Technical College, went to two graduates, Jami Marquardt and Jamie Ruiz; both were awarded practical nursing diplomas.

The commencement address was given by Mr. Tony Thomann of Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, who inspired graduates and guests with quotes from Yoda of Star Wars and other short stories relevant to trying hard, doing good and living well. Thomann's address was well-received; the audience applauded and many whistled in agreement with his comments.

The presentation of the graduates' certificates, diplomas and degrees was more personal in 2009. Faculty members presented each graduate within their programs with his or her scroll. Following the ceremony, graduates and their guests gathered in the Pine Technical College student lounge for a reception with cake, fruit and punch.

All Pine Technical College faculty and staff members wish the class of '09 success and happiness. "Congratulations!"

Staff and faculty members honored at Fifth Annual Ribfest

Pine Technical College President Dr. Robert Musgrove hosted the Fifth Annual Ribfest Thurs. May 14, 2009 in the gunsmithing lab.

“This is a casual event just for all our faculty and staff members that work so hard,” Dr. Musgrove said. “The Ribfest is held at the end of the school year to honor all their hard work carried out throughout the year,” Musgrove added.

Musgrove, from the Lone Star State, served up Texas-style smoked ribs with his own secret seasoning. To add to the event, faculty and staff members brought many of their own specialty dishes. Some of the dishes included homemade rhubarb cake from Dean of Student Affairs Nancy Mach’s kitchen, guacamole from CIO/Technology Director Ken Ries, and grilled burgers by Gunsmithing Program Advisor and Instructor Dave Defenbaugh, just to name a few.

More than 75 staff and faculty gathered for the annual event to enjoy the ribs, each other’s company and the wrap of another school year.

Pine Technical College prepares for record-setting graduation ceremony

More than 120 Pine Technical College students are registered to participate in the May 15 ceremony to be held at the Pine City High School gymnasium.

“This is the largest graduation ceremony we’ve hosted in terms of numbers of graduates,” said Nancy Mach, Dean of Student Affairs. “We’re expecting a record turnout since most students bring family members and guests to the ceremony,” Mach added.

In previous years, the College held its annual spring graduation ceremony at Pine City Elementary School. The 2009 ceremony is the first to be held at the high school which offers a larger facility.

“We are making plans to accommodate everyone wishing to attend,” said Dr. Robert Musgrove, President. “Our graduation ceremonies always draw a crowd – this community is so proud of its graduates,” Musgrove added.

130 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be awarded this year, and 92 percent of the graduates are participating in the ceremony. The public is encouraged and welcome to attend in support of the graduates. For more information, call 320-629-5100.

Earth Day Fair held at Pine Technical College

On Wed. April 22, Pine Technical College hosted the Inaugural Earth Day Fair. The College hosted more than 20 information booths on topics such as renewable energy, sustainable farming, recycling, composting and organic foods.

Many students from Alexis Grinde’s biological sciences courses designed presentations along with students from other programs such as gunsmithing and automotive technology. Attendees included more than 200 Pine City Elementary students, Pine Technical College students, staff and faculty members and many community-minded and environmentally-conscious Pine Citians seeking information.

During the month of April, Pine City Elementary students focus on environmental topics. The students showed great enthusiasm for the exhibits and participated by potting seeds and collecting fliers and information.

Motivated by the success of the inaugural event, Grinde, with the Pine Technical College Ever Green Club, are already preparing for the 2nd Annual Earth Day Fair in 2010.

Special thanks to Pine Technical College staff including Erin White, Theresa Fish, Nancy Johnson and Amanda Spencer for sponsoring booths and to everyone supporting the new event.