Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1303192
Subscribe at careercollegecentral.com 33 going to have a problem on our hands. And in many cases, we already do: Many skilled trades are facing employee shortages for jobs that offer salaries much higher than the minimum wage, not to mention additional benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or advanced training opportunities. Preparing for the future Hands-on training programs like the ones offered by MTI and DTC are designed to prepare students specifically for their career of interest, but they can also do so in less time—meaning that students are oen able to spend less on the cost of school and able to get to work (and start earning a salary) more quickly than if they commit to four full years in the classroom. For students who are eager to start making a living in their new trade, time is critical. at's why MTI and DTC's programs are intended to be completed in as short a timeframe as possible—most programs can be completed in nine months or fewer—and why they're proud to offer student services like part-time job assistance and résumé-building workshops, in addition to tutoring programs and an on-campus Learning Resource Center. e schools also understand, however, that as important as school and job preparation are, their students have other things to think about too. By helping students find affordable childcare or convenient housing options, offering transportation assistance for those who need it, and even providing lunch-and-learn programs on topics from interview skills to keeping a budget, MTI and DTC are committed to helping students find success beyond the classroom. Some of these programs have, of course, needed a little tweaking in the age of a global pandemic. But while the COVID-19 pandemic may have created some unexpected hurdles in Mike and Brian's own path, they're not too worried. "We feel pretty good about the future because we know how relevant we are," Brian says. "We don't see that going away any time soon." Mallory Herrmann is a writer and editor whose work has also been featured in Unity Magazine and the Lee's Summit Tribune. She can be reached at mallory@malloryherrmann. com. MALLORY HERRMANN EDITOR Mike is quick to agree: "ere's careers beyond your imagination. Just look at our own path, from welders to school founders. You never know where these skills will take you." For more information about Midwest Technical Institute, visit www.midwesttech.edu. For more information about Delta Technical College, visit www.deltatechnicalcollege.com. Visit Midwest Technical Institute! Springfield, Illinois East Peoria, Illinois Moline, Illinois Springfield, Missouri Visit Delta Technical College! Ridgeland, Mississippi Horn Lake, Mississippi