Hinds Community College Blog

What do you want to be when you grow up? Do you enjoy driving, possess a lot of patience and are safety oriented? Are you a self-starter with a good work ethic?  Are you in good physical condition and are drug/alcohol free? Do you have a clean driving record?  If you answered yes to these questions, you might want to consider the Commercial Truck Driving Technology program at Hinds Community College!

The Commercial Truck Driving program is designed for the student with no commercial driving experience. Our 4-week semester offers quality classroom, behind the wheel road and range instruction with an emphasis on driver safety. Graduation from this program will result in the student receiving a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and a Career Certificate from Hinds Community College. Graduates will also find entry level employment as a commercial truck driver. Our goals are to advance truck driver training, proficiency and professionalism and to put quality drivers on the road. 

What About The Job Forecast?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 11% through 2022. An increase in truck drivers will be needed to keep supply chains moving as the economy grows. Trucks transport most of the freight in the United States. Truck drivers with hazardous material endorsements will increase their marketability and improve their job prospects considerably. 

Students will find the Commercial Truck Driving program to be reliable and thorough training ground for employment in the transportation field. The program has an excellent reputation with local firms looking for highly trained drivers and placement of students who complete the program is a top priority. Typical job placement in this field can be found with fleet distribution and sales. KLLM Driving Academy will offer employment opportunities to students who successfully complete the requirements for graduation and intend to commit to 12 months of employment. The commitment of 12 months of employment does not apply to “refresher” drivers. 

What Commercial Truck Drivers Do?

The trucking industry provides an essential service to the American economy by transporting large quantities of raw materials, works in process, and finished goods over land typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers. Trucks in America are responsible for the majority of freight movement over land, and are vital tools in the manufacturing, transportation and warehousing industries. Over 80% of all communities in the U.S. rely exclusively on trucks to deliver all of their fuel, clothing, medicine, and other consumer goods. The trucking industry employs 10 million people (out of a total national population of 300 million) in jobs that relate directly to trucking. 

Like many other industries, the trucking industry has benefited from the use of computers and the Internet. The Internet helps firms explore new opportunities by aggressive sales and marketing. The incremental cost of conducting business transactions on the Internet is as much as fifteen times less expensive than paper transactions. Developments in satellite technology have fostered increased communication and productivity. This allows drivers to communicate with their dispatcher from the truck. The driver inputs the information, using a keyboard, into an automated system of pre-formatted messages known as macros.  There are macros for each stage of the loading and unloading process, such as “loaded and rolling” and “arrive at shipper”.  This system also allows the company to track the driver’s fuel usage, speed, gear optimization, engine idle time, location, direction of travel and amount of time spent driving. Drivers are no longer required to find the nearest public phone in order to relay information regarding their load status; it can be done without leaving the truck cab. 

Truck and trailer drivers typically do the following:

• Drive long distances
• Report to a dispatcher any incidents encountered on the road
• Follow all applicable traffic laws
• Inspect their trailer before and after the trip, and record any defects they find
• Keep a log of their activities
• Report serious mechanical problems to the appropriate personnel
• Keep their truck and associated equipment clean and in good working order
  
  Admission Procedures:

• All new and returning students who did not attend Hinds Community College during the last regular semester must submit a completed HCC Admission Application.
• Official Transcripts are those transcripts that come directly from the high school, college, or GED office to the Admissions Office. These transcripts should be mailed or hand delivered in a sealed envelope and must not be stamped “issued to student.”  Official transcripts must bear the signature of the appropriate school official, the institution’s seal, and a graduation date if applicable. The District Admissions office will assist you with obtaining Mississippi GED transcripts.
• Official ACT scores are those scores that are supplied on the official transcript, supplied electronically by the testing company, or the original score results may be brought to the Admissions Office for copying by Admissions staff.
• Any student who does not have ACT scores must take an entrance exam. 
• If a student did not meet the requirements for High School graduation, he can still be admitted into the program as a “Vocational Only” student. 
• If a student is entering Hinds as a College Transfer and was placed in an English and Math class, test scores are not required.
• Any student who begins at Hinds Fall 2007 or later MUST successfully complete RST 1312 Orientation, in order to meet graduation requirements.  The course is designed to help students succeed and to be financially responsible citizens. 

Admission Requirements:

• At least 21 years of age or older.
• Take an entrance test.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must have the ability to pass a Department of Transportation physical in accordance with 391.41 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Students will be given a D.O.T. physical prior to operating any commercial vehicles.
• Must certify they are drug free. All students will be drug tested in accordance with 382.301 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations prior to operating any commercial vehicles. 
• Must meet Department of Transportation and KLLM requirements for employment.

Need More Information?

 

This program is located at the KLLM Driver Academy campus of Hinds Community College.  For more information on the Commercial Truck Technology program, contact Kathy Emrick at 601.857. 3337 or Randy Dennis at 601.857.3341 or call KLLM at 800.925.5556.

 

Collision Repair Technology

What do you want to be when you grow up? If you've ever wanted to know how to repair a damaged vehicle, you might want to consider the Collision Repair Technology program at Hinds Community College! Collision Repair Technology is an instructional program designed to prepare students for entry level positions in the Collision Repair and Refinishing trade by combining classroom instruction and practical laboratory experiences using equipment comparable to that found in industry. Students will be provided learning experiences in repair and refinish work beginning with basic applications and progressing on to heavy collision repairs requiring major body and frame alignment and panel replacement. The instruction includes all phases necessary to perform collision repair including glass replacement, welding, and replacement of hardware and trim items, cosmetics, and structural repairs. In all course activities, you'll find an emphasis on safety. The latest, most advanced equipment and repair techniques are used and your classes will incorporate NATEF curriculum. 

What Do Collision Repair Technicians Do?

Collision repair technicians repair and fix damaged bodies and body parts of automotive vehicles according to the manufacturer's specifications. These vehicles include cars, vans, trucks, buses, campers, and trailers. 

Collision repair technicians:

• Provide estimates for repair

• Remove small dents with a hammer, pick hammer, or punch

• Straighten bent or twisted frames

• Weld metal parts

• Remove parts to gain access to vehicle body and fenders

• Remove, repair, or replace body parts, doors and/or fenders

• Fill damaged areas with solder or plastic body fillers

• File, grind, sand, and smooth filled or repaired surfaces

• Refinish with a primer coat, sand and paint with a finish coat

• Align wheels and aim headlights

 

Possess These Qualities?  This Might Be The Career For You!

• Critical thinking skills. Repair technicians must be able to evaluate vehicle damage and determine if the repair cost is justified.

• Customer service skills. Repair technicians must be courteous and ready to answer questions customers might have. 

• Detail oriented. Repair technicians must restore damaged vehicles to their original state.

• Dexterity. Repair technicians must have good hand-eye coordination. 

• Technical skills. Repair technicians must know which tools and power equipment are appropriate for certain procedures and repairs.

What About The Job Forecast?

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment opportunities for automotive body and glass repairers are expected to grow 19% through 2020. The best prospects will present themselves to those with industry certification and formal training in automotive body repair and refinishing and in collision repair. New job opportunities will be created for qualified workers with knowledge of specific technologies, materials, as well as makes and models of cars. 

The program has an excellent reputation with local firms looking for skilled workers and placement of students who complete the program is a top priority. Typical jobs filled by students who have completed this program include apprentice positions as body, frame, and refinish technicians

What Are My Degree Options?

Degree options in the Collision Repair Technology program include a Career Certificate option, Technical Certificate option and AAS Degree option. All program options are written to nationally recognized, industry-based certifications. The goal is for the student to earn a “credential of value” during their time at the community college. That “credential of value” is the Associate of Applied Science degree, a Technical Certificate, a Career Certificate, and/or license/certification recognized by business and industry. The credential should be a step along a career pathway offering students ongoing opportunities to increase their earning potential in the job market. 

Need More Information?

This program is located on the Rankin, Raymond, and Utica campuses of Hinds Community College. For more information regarding the Raymond Campus Collision Repair Technology program, contact Ovid Vickers at 601.857.3252 (OSVickers@hindscc.edu).

For other campuses in the district, you may use the contact information below:

Rankin Campus - 601.936.5532
Utica Campus – 601.885.6062

Business & Office Technology

What do you want to be when you grow up? Are you organized, detail-oriented and can develop a plan of action before beginning a task? Do you have excellent written and verbal communication skills? Are you confident and enjoy working with people? If you have any of these characteristics, you might want to consider the Business and Office Technology program at Hinds Community College!

Every business, large and small, reaps the benefits of well-trained, competent office support staff. As the role of the office professional evolves, the reliance on technology continues to expand in the business environment. Business & Office Technology (BOT) programs help to meet the constant demand for office positions in the fields of Accounting Technology and Office Systems Technology.

The courses in the BOT program have been planned to accommodate a variety of needs and career paths while offering an interactive education in an inviting and pleasant environment. Students will benefit from professional faculty, small class sizes and laboratories equipped with the current technology and software. 

What Do Office Support Staff Do?

Secretaries and administrative assistants ensure an organization runs efficiently by performing a variety of necessary clerical and administrative duties. They create spreadsheets, manage databases and prepare presentations, reports, and documents with the use of computer software. They may also negotiate with vendors, buy supplies and manage stockrooms. Secretaries and administrative assistants also operate videoconferencing, fax and other office equipment. Specific job duties vary by experience, job title and specialty.

Hinds Community College students with a degree in Business and Office Technology can obtain the following positions:

• Administrative Assistant

• Executive Secretary

• Office Assistant

• Record clerk

• Entry level accounting position
  
   

What About The Job Forecast?

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment of administrative assistants is among those occupations with the largest number of new positions. Employment of secretaries and administrative assistants is projected to grow 12 percent from 2012 to 2022.  Median annual earnings are $35,330 with the hourly media pay reported as $16.99 per hour. Many job openings will result from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. The best job prospects will exist for those with a combination of work experience and computer skills. 

What Will You Gain From Obtaining A Degree In Business & Office Technology?

• Broad overview of all office functions while obtaining the opportunity to investigate the integration of systems through people and technology

• Exposure to career options available within the office that involve the coordination of people, equipment and resources

• Opportunity to develop the relationship between worker and supervisor

• Concentration of skills in a specific area

What Are My Degree Options?

Degree options in the Business and Office Technology program include a Career Certificate option, Technical Certificate option and AAS Degree option. All program options are written to nationally recognized, industry-based certifications. The goal is for the student to earn a “credential of value” during their time at the community college. That “credential of value” is the Associate of Applied Science degree, a Technical Certificate, a Career Certificate, and/or license/certification recognized by business and industry. The credential should be a step along a career pathway offering students ongoing opportunities to increase their earning potential in the job market. 

Need More Information?

 

This program is located on the Jackson, Rankin, Raymond, and Vicksburg campuses of Hinds Community College. For more information on the Accounting and Office Systems options of the Business Office Technology program located on the Raymond campus, contact Vanessa Spann at 601.857.3522 (Vanessa.Spann@hindscc.edu).

For other campuses in the district, you may use the contact information below:

Accounting Technology: 
Jackson Campus-Academic/Technical Center - 601.987.8122
Rankin - 601.936.5565
Raymond - 601.857.3522
Vicksburg-Warren - 601.629.6881

Office Systems Technology:
Jackson Campus-Academic/Technical Center - 601.987.8122
Rankin - 601.936.5565
Raymond - 601.857.3522
Vicksburg-Warren - 601.629.6881

What do you want to be when you grow up? You might need to get past thinking “what pays the most” and think about what drives you. What are your real interests and passions in life?  Are you creative? Do you possess dexterity, physical strength, and stamina? Do you have a command of basic math skills? If you said answered "yes" to any of the previous questions, you might want to consider the Brick, Block and Stonemasonry Technology program at Hinds Community College.

The Brick, Block, and Stonemasonry program offers learning experiences in the following areas:

• laying out and/or spacing bonds

• determining vertical and horizontal alignment of various walls using proven techniques

• cutting, notching, and shaping blocks, bricks, and stone to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, and fireplaces. 

All types of masons are involved in the construction of durable buildings and exteriors. Their work is varied, and could be as simple as laying a stone path or as complicated as installing an elaborate surface on a major downtown building. Masons use bricks, concrete blocks, and natural stones to build fences, walkways, walls, and other structures.

 There are two main types of masons:

• Brickmasons, blockmasons, and bricklayers use various types of brick and block as well as other materials to construct and maintain walls, exteriors, fireplaces, walkways, etc., out of brick or block.

• Stonemasons generally construct floors, fences, walls, or exteriors for residential or professional buildings.  They use many types of stone, including both natural cut stone and manmade stone. 

Masons can: 

• Read blueprints to calculate materials needed

• Lay out foundations or patterns

• Safely cut or break bricks, stones, or blocks to their appropriate size

• Mix and place mortar and/or grout

• Lay bricks, blocks, or stones according to blueprints or drawings

• Safely clean excess mortar using chemical cleaning agents

• Construct corners with a corner pole or by building a corner pyramid

• Ensure that a structure is perfectly vertical and horizontal, using methods consistent with industry techniques

• Clean and polish surfaces with the safe use of  hand or power tools

• Fill expansion and contraction joints with the appropriate caulking materials

• Layout and construct walls with expansion and control joints

What About Job Opportunities?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of masons is projected to grow 40 percent from 2010 to 2020. This growth is due to an increase in population, which will create a need for infrastructure such as new home construction, schools, hospitals and apartment buildings. The masonry workforce is growing older and a large number of masons are expected to retire over the next decade. As a result, a shortage of workers is expected. Highly skilled masons with a good job history and work experience in construction should have the best job opportunities.

Students will find the Brick, Block, and Stone Masonry program a reliable and thorough training ground for employment in the construction industry. The program has an excellent reputation with local firms looking for skilled workers and placement of students who complete the program is a top priority. Typical jobs filled by students who have completed this program include laborers, mason tenders, apprentice brick masons, block masons, and stonemasons (or, simply, masons). In addition, many are self-employed contractors. 

What Are My Degree Options?

Degree options in the Brick, Block, and Stone Masonry program include a Career Certificate option, Technical Certificate option and AAS Degree option. All program options are written to nationally recognized, industry-based certifications. The goal is for the student to earn a “credential of value” during their time at the community college. That “credential of value” is the Associate of Applied Science degree, a Technical Certificate, a Career Certificate, and/or license/certification recognized by business and industry. The credential should be a step along a career pathway offering students ongoing opportunities to increase their earning potential in the job market. 

Need More Information? 

This program is offered at the Raymond and Utica campuses of Hinds Community College.  For more information, contact Dennis Quertermous (Raymond Campus) at 601.857.3376 or Rodney Warfield (Utica Campus) at 601.885.7009. 

 

 

What do you want to be when you grow up? Are you a teenager or adult who has absolutely no clue as to what you want to be or how to get there? Choose something that you really enjoy doing: Are you always styling someone’s hair for prom or social occasions? Do you enjoy people, listening to their wants, needs or problems?  Are you creative? Always keeping current with the latest styles and creating some of your own? If so, then maybe a barber/stylist program is something you should look into.

The Barber/Stylist program on the Raymond Campus of Hinds Community College prepares you to cut hair using shears and clippers, perm, color, relax and style hair. You will also receive training in facials and straight-razor shaving. Special attention is given to hygiene, safety, skin, scalp, and disease and equipment sterilization.

Included in the program is the study of sales, business management, and state law and customer relationships. Upon completing the program and its coursework, students will be qualified to take the State Barber Board certification examination.

What Barber/Stylists do?

Barbers/stylists perform a variety of tasks making it a versatile occupation. For example, barbers/stylists must concentrate on a client’s appearance and then provide hair and beauty services. Salon owners also are responsible for keeping business records, ordering supplies, advertising, as well as hiring, firing and supervising their employees. Additionally, they offer a wide variety of hair services such as shampooing, clipper and shear cutting, coloring and styling. 

• Recommend treatment by inspecting hair, face, and scalp,

• Discuss hairstyle options

• Wash, condition and color hair

• Cut or trim, dry, and style hair

• Clean and sanitize all tools and work areas

   

• Creativity
   
• Customer-service skills
   
• Listening skills
   
• Time-management skills

 

Will I Be Able To Find A Job?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of barbers, hairdressers, cosmetologists, and shampooers is expected to grow 14 percent from 2010 to 2020, as fast as the average for all occupations.

Students will find the Barber/Stylist program at Hinds Community College a reliable and thorough training ground for employment in the field of barbering. The program has an excellent reputation with local salons looking for talented and creative stylists and placement of students who complete the program is a top priority. Typical positions filled by students who have completed the program include barbers, hair stylists and shampooers. 

What Type of Degree Will I Receive?

Degree options in the Barber/Stylist Technology program include a Technical Certificate option and AASOE Degree option. All program options are written to nationally recognized, industry-based certifications. The goal is for the student to earn a “credential of value” during their time at the community college. That “credential of value” is the Associate of Applied Science of Occupational Education degree, a Technical Certificate and/or license/certification recognized by business and industry. The credential should be a step along a career pathway offering students ongoing opportunities to increase their earning potential in the job market. 

This CTE program is offered only at the Raymond Campus of Hinds Community College. For more information on this program, contact one of the program instructors:

 Dana Bowles (Dana.Bowles@hinsdcc.edu) at 601.857.3500

Cady Scott (Catherine.Scott2@hindscc.edu) at 601.857.3308