Bossier Parish Community College’s Industrial Technology students are able to train on equipment that they will use on the job – making them more marketable to local employers.
Sophmore Mark Holstrom has experienced first-hand what his education and training from BPCC as done for him and is showing others. Holstrom recently held a special presentation for the donation of his final project to the Chancellor, other college officials and guests. The presentation was designed to give everyone a glimpse of what the field of industrial technology is and what the world of 3-D printing is all about.
“I wanted to give back to the College something that I designed and learned in my classes here at BPCC,” says Holstrom. “By presenting my final project to the Chancellor and my instructors, I am able to show them my appreciation and thank them publicly for ‘embracing, educating, and empowering’ me.”
According to definition, the 3D printing technology is used for prototyping and distributed manufacturing with applications in architecture, construction, industrial des
ign, automotive, aerospace, military, engineering, civil engineering, dental and medical industries, biotech (human tissue replacement), fashion, footwear, jewelry, eyewear, education, geographic information systems, food, and many other fields.
“We have the most extensive technology, numerous software and graphic training,” said Ed Chopin, program director for Engineering Graphics. “I’m able to place most of my students with a company directly out of college since I feel we have the best program in the area.”
Holstrom brought up the idea to Chopin last year and they have extensively worked on the project to have it finished this summer.
“Mark is exceptional student. I think Chancellor was totally amazed at the plaque we gave him at the presentation,” said Chopin. “The plaque is a complex multi-piece assembly and was all produced by 3-D design and 3-D printer.”
Students who plan to study Industrial Technology at BPCC can choose from two concentrations:
n Engineering Graphics prepares individuals to function as entry level graphics specialists, and includes instruction on types of views, line and dimensioning standards, and spatial relationships of surfaces as typically used in engineering, industry, and architecture. The curriculum emphasizes 2-D and 3-D techniques, as well as computer software programs used in industry.
n Automation and Controls provides the graduate the opportunity to work as industrial electronic technicians in the growing industry.
“Students can complete their associate degree at BPCC and go to work immediately, or, if they choose, they can transfer their course work and continue their education at Northwestern State University,” said Chopin. “We have an articulation agreement with NSU where students can transfer seamlessly and earn a bachelor’s degree.”
Chopin wants to spread awareness about the program and wants to promote the two scholarships available for students in the fall.
“Locally, we are doing our best to provide well trained graduates who can walk in and start a job.
I would like to partner with local businesses and industries to provide prospective employee skills needed for jobs in the local market,” said Chopin.
