July 3, 2006

A-B Tech has expanded its curriculum offerings and will start four new programs during the fall semester. Infant/Toddler Care, Information Systems Security, Industrial Systems Technology and Web Technologies will be available at the semester start Aug. 18

An infant and toddler care certificate prepares individuals to work with children from infancy to three years of age in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories, competency-based knowledge and practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

The three other programs award associate in applied science degrees at completion.

Information Systems Security provides students with the skills required to implement effective and comprehensive information security controls with coursework including networking technologies, intrusion detection and security administration. Graduates will be prepared for employment as security administrators. According to Dr. Sharon Morrissey, vice president for Instructional Services, “Every small business has networked computers, and we have identified a strong need for people who can install firewalls and other protections.”

Industrial Systems Technology is designed to teach students to safely service, maintain, repair, or install equipment. Students in the curriculum will learn blueprint reading, mechanical systems maintenance, hydraulics/mechanics, welding and diagnostic and repair procedures. “When we conducted the feasibility study for this program, we were astounded at the number of jobs available for technicians with these skills,” Morrissey said.

The Web Technologies curriculum prepares graduates for careers in the information technology arena using computers and distributed computing to disseminate and collect information via the web. “Much of the programming that is done today is web-based,” Morrissey said. “These new programs illustrate how A-B Tech works hard to offer and maintain quality programs that meet workforce training needs.”

For more information about programs at A-B Tech, call 254-1921, ext. 144, 145 or 210 or visit the college’s website at abtech.edu.