Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College

Auto Dealers' License Renewal

This course is approved by the NC DMV for six hours of continuing education credit for license renewal for independent auto dealers. The course includes recent changes in the rules and regulations for independent auto dealers. (6 hrs) No fee exemption

• Wed, Mar 19, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• 209 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7701-702Class will break one hour for lunch
• Sat, Jun 21, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• 209 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7701-703

Business Feasibility: Part I

This course is designed for anyone planning to start a new business, expand their existing business or introducing a new product, with a special emphasis on businesses related to the Natural Products Industry. Before investing time and money, the question must be asked, 'Is this idea or product feasible?'. This course will train you to prepare a preliminary feasibility study and will be critiqued by the Professional Services Team at the Small Business Center, enabling you to determine if your idea/product is a Go or No-Go business idea. (10 hrs) No fee exemption

• Mon, Apr 07 - May 12, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7711-700

Business Feasibility: Part II

The course is the second part of the Business Feasibility: Part I class. Students in this class will expand the identification of the client demographic, design an organic and strategic marketing plan, analyze advertising and promotional vehicles, address capital and cash flow projections and will conclude with a formal business presentation to a panel of professionals for constructive feedback. There will be an emphasis on those businesses related to the Natural Products industry. Please note the required prerequisite for this class is Business Feasibility: Part I. (14.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Date Change - Updated May 16, 2008
  Mon, Jun 16 - Jul 14, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7712-701
Final class presentations will take place on Fri, Jul 18.

Business, How to Buy and Sell a

This class will provide students with an overall understanding of the buying and selling process, including the financial statements and ratios used, how to prepare and market your business for sale, how to analyze a business to buy, and managing and structuring deals. (2 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 22, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 102 Asheville Mall Course #: SBC-7795-701

Business: How to Value a

This course will provide an introduction to several methods which are used to value a business, the terminology used, and the due diligence necessary to prepare a valuation report. (3 hrs)

• Tue, Jun 17, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7810-700

Business Plan Basics Additional Class Added - Updated Mar 31, 2008

This seminar is co-sponsored with the Small Business and Technology Development Center of Western NC and students will learn the purposes and sections of a business plan and the questions each section of the plan should answer. (2 hrs)

• Tue, Jun 10, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• 102 Asheville Mall Course Course #: SBC-7782-702

Demographic and Economic Information: Part II

This seminar is a follow-up to the Demographic and Economic Information: Your Place in the Market class in which students will gain hands-on experience in utilizing free economic data from the Census Bureau. Although it is preferred that students attend the first seminar, it is not required. (3 hrs)

• Thu, Mar 06, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 101 Asheville Mall Course Course #: SBC-7830-700

Emerging Growth Series

This series of four classes is designed for the current business owner who is experiencing various growth challenges. Topics to be covered include: Emerging Growth Dynamics, The Four Management Components for Growth, Funding for Your Growing Company, and Increasing Your Productivity. (12 hrs) No fee exemption

• Tue, May 13 - Jun 03, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7775-701

FastTrac Tech Venture

FastTrac TechVenture is a program designed for entrepreneurs developing business around significant technology, life sciences or branding. FastTrac TechVenture sessions are led by experienced facilitators and business coaches who make tech entrepreneurship come alive by sharing real-world expertise, practical tips, and success stories. Expert guest speakers from the entrepreneurial, corporate, investment, legal, and financial communities are frequent contributors to the program. Please note: Students must register directly with Thomas Beckett at http://tbeckett.com/fasttrac/ or by calling 828-713-1668. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (30 hrs) No fee exemption

• Wed, Mar 19 - May 21, 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7833-700

Intellectual Property Issues: An Introduction

This workshop will introduce the foundations of intellectual property (IP) with particular attention to the IP issues facing biotechnology and life science businesses. Participants will be introduced to the four main areas of intellectual property law: trade secret, patent, copyright and trademark, and the process required to protect IP in each of those areas. (3 hrs)

• Thu, Apr 10, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7736-700

Legal: Labor Law

This workshop will help employers and employees understand the state's program requirements for a healthy and safe workplace, specifically 29 CFR 1910 Safety and Health Standards for General Industry. Upon completion, attendees will receive a 10-hour Certificate of Attendance. Please Note: You must attend the entire 10 hours to receive the Certificate. This offering will be presented by NCDOL OSH Division staff and will be limited to the first 45 registrants. (10 hrs)

• Wed-Thu, Mar 05 - Mar 06, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7801-700
Class will break one hour for lunch Class is full - Please check Schedule for other course offerings - Updated Feb 12, 2008

Legal: Small Claims for Landlords

This seminar will assist participants in learning how to complete paperwork for evictions, to recover property and past due rent as well as regulations on what landlords can and can't do. (3 hrs)

• Thu, Apr 24, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7761-701
Class has been canceled - Updated April 24, 2008

Marketing: Increasing Sales through Marketing

Every business wants more sales, but how do you increase sales in a cost effective way? What role does marketing play in expanding sales and profits? This course looks at the role marketing plays in increasing sales and profits. Topics to be covered include: The Role and Function of Marketing, The Relationship between Sales and Marketing, and How to Plan and Execute a Comprehensive Sales and Marketing plan. (3 hrs)

• Tue, Jun 10, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7808-700

Marketing: Purposeful and Effective Communication

Communicating through the spoken word is a powerful sales tool. Whether it is a cause you support, a product you make, or a service you offer, it is important to be able to speak personally about it to individuals or groups. This interactive workshop will explore the variety of forms that verbal communication takes. Learn to identify your strengths and weaknesses as a communicator, how to deal with nerves, what audiences love and hate, and how to become more effective and comfortable as a speaker. (3 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 29, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7809-700

Marketing: What Makes a Website Fly?

In this two-part series, students will explore a variety of website designs in order to learn more about what makes a website visually appealing, how to set the tone for the customer and how to lead customers to the sale. Students will also discuss how to utilize website content in order to efficiently reach their target market. (4 hrs)

• Tue/Thu, Mar 18 - Mar 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 209 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7704-700

Natural Products Business: Be Aware! Protect your Herbal and Natural Products Business

This class will review proper product labeling in compliance with FDA and FTC regulations, as well as cover some case histories of those who did not follow the rules. This class will briefly look at proper insurance coverage and how to protect yourself from potential law suits. The instructor for this class is Camille F. Edwards, NCCP. (2 hrs)

• Day / Date / Location Change - Updated Feb 06, 2008
  Tue, Apr 29, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7762-700

Natural Products Business: Herb and Prescription Drug Interactions

Countless patients are taking prescription medications simultaneously with herbal products. More than ever, practitioners and their patients should be informed about the compatibilities of herbs with prescription medications and their possible adverse interactions. With some general insights in pharmacology, one can foresee possible interactions and thus take precautions to avoid incompatibilities. Come learn the latest information in this discussion of the most common drug-herb interactions. The instructors for this class are Michelle Middleton, MS and Blair Wirkkala, RN. (4 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 01 - Apr 08, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7763-700

Natural Products Business: Herbal First Aid

From healing salves to soothing baths, to plants right off the garden paths, join a clinical herbalist as she discusses her favorite herbal remedies for first aid and demonstrates how you can make your own first aid kit right at home using common weeds, garden plants, and everyday kitchen ingredients. Prepare to be empowered to care for your family the herbal way! The instructor for this class is Mimi Middleton. (2 hrs)

• Tue, Mar 25, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7703-700

Natural Products Business: Herbs for Grown Women

In the wake of issues concerning hormone replacement therapies, more women than ever are seeking out natural alternatives for menopause support. Come learn about some of the most popular herbs for women's health and familiarize yourself with the most up to date research. This class will also address adrenal exhaustion and thyroid dysfunctions that are so common in today's stressful society. The instructor for the class is Mimi Middleton. (4 hrs)

• Tue, Mar 11 - Mar 18, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7702-700

Natural Products Business: Medicinal Flora of the Blue Ridge

The Blue Ridge area is one of the most diverse and abundant ecosystems for medicinal plants. Find out why! This class is designed to familiarize students with the most common medicinal herbs of our area. The second portion of this class will be a guided and educational hike with the aim of identifying medicinal plants in the wild while learning the fascinating stories of their traditional uses. The instructor for this class is Michelle Middleton, MS. (4 hrs)

• Tue/Thu, Jun 10 - Jun 12, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7765-700

Natural Products Business: Medicinal Mints

What do rosemary, lavender, basil, lemon balm, peppermint, thyme, and sage have in common? They are all medicinal mints! These lovely, easy to grow, and fragrant members of the Lamiaceae - Mint family are just as versatile for health promotion as they are in the kitchen. Come and learn how these and other mints have been used traditionally for health and how scientific evidence supports many of these uses (4 hrs)

• Tue, May 27 - Jun 03, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7799-700

Natural Products Business: Natural Support for Diabetes Prevention and Management

More than 18 million Americans already have diabetes, while another 20 million are in an early stage called impaired glucose tolerance or pre-diabetes. The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that one in three babies born in 2000 will eventually develop diabetes. This class will present evidence based information on nutritional and herbal approaches to preventing and managing diabetes. The instructor for the class is Mimi Middleton. (2 hrs)

• Tue, Mar 04, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7700-700

Natural Products Business: Navigating the Supplement Aisle

This educational series is designed to familiarize students with today's most popular health supplements and the evidence for their use. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding product labels and will include a comprehensive tour of a local health food store's supplement section. The instructor for this class is Michelle Middleton, MS. (8 hrs)

• Tue, May 06 - May 20, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7766-700
Class will include store tour on Thu, May 22.

Natural Products Business: Phytochemicals

Phytochemistry refers to the chemical structures in plants. This introduction to phytochemistry as it relates to herbal medicine will be taught in simple and friendly terminology. Topics will include polysaccharides, ployphenols, phytoestrogens, alkaloids, tannins, resins, volatile oils, and many more. (4 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 15 - Apr 22, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7797-700

Natural Products: Bookkeeping Basics

This class will focus on getting your bookkeeping system set-up correctly to perform industry comparison and prepare for tax time. Participants will discuss the chart of accounts, general administrative and selling expenses, fixed assets versus operating expenses and options for inventory management. In addition, the session will cover the importance of properly creating a bookkeeping system in order to ensure easy comparisons to industry standards and minimize tax preparation time and expense. (3 hrs)

• Thu, Jun 05, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7816-700

Natural Products: Medicine Making with Common Weeds

Turn pesky garden weeds into potent herbal remedies. Find out how easy it is to make simples with common plants like dandelion, chickweed, and yellow dock. Learn the multitudinous beneficial applications of these abundant herbs. Take part in making alcohol, oil, water and vinegar infusions, as well as syrups and salves. Participants will take home an herbal concoction. (6 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 15 - Apr 29, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 103 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SBC-7812-700

Nonprofit: Duke Nonprofit Management Fundamentals: Communications

This interactive workshop will cover the tools for effective nonprofit organization outreach, including: mission development; audience and market; message development; determining the best communications vehicles; handling outreach during a crisis; and assessing results. Instructor Rachel Perry has over 15 years experience in organizational communications and public policy; she currently works with United Way - Success By Six program. Please Note: Students must register directly with Duke Nonprofit Management, www.learnmore.duke.edu/certificates/nonprofit/ or call (919)684-6259. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (6 hrs)

• Wed, Mar 12, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• 328 TCC, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7705-700
A $5 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of class.

Nonprofit: Duke Nonprofit Management: - Fund Development

This interactive workshop will cover fundraising trends and approaches; methods for successful fundraising; creating a fundraising plan; engaging your volunteers; and monitoring fundraising effectiveness. Instructor Angela Kemper has more than 20 years experience as a successful fundraiser, trainer, and consultant. Please note: Students must register with Duke Nonprofit Management at www.learnmore.duke.edu/certificates/nonprofit/ or call 919-684-6259. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (6 hrs) No fee exemption

• Tue, Apr 22, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• Location Change - Updated Mar 06, 2008
  228 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7790-701
A $5 materials fee will be collected at the beginning of class.

Nonprofit: How to Start a Nonprofit Entity

Starting a non-profit organization can be rewarding and fulfilling. This seminar will review the basics on how to start such an organization, how to manage and what resources are available. (3 hrs)

• Tue, Mar 04, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 101 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SBC-7760-701
• Tue, May 06, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 101 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SBC-7760-702

Real Estate: BICAR - 2007-2008 Broker in Charge

Required course for all BICs. This course will focus on agency disclosures and agreements. (4 hrs) No fee exemption

• Thu, May 29, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• 129 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7708-703

Real Estate: Real Estate and Taxes: What Every Agent Should Know

This course demystifies the impact of tax laws on owners, explores how tax law changes affect investments, and helps agents identify when to recommend professional tax advice. (4 hrs) No fee exemption

• Fri, Apr 18, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
• 112 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SEF-7710-704

Real Estate: Risk Management Session

This course offers the essentials on risk management that every sales professional must know to avoid legal problems and provides an action plan for minimizing liability. (4 hrs) No fee exemption

• Thu, May 29, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7713-700
• Thu, Jun 05, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7713-701

Real Estate: Update 2007-2008 Real Estate Update

This is the four hour-course which must be completed by real estate licensees who wish to renew their licenses on active status for the 2007 - 2008 license period. This Real Estate Update course will focus primarily on the language and application of the revised Offer to Purchase form. (4 hrs) No fee exemption

• Fri, Apr 18, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• 112 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SEF-7703-720
• Thu, May 29, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7703-721
• Thu, Jun 05, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SEF-7703-722

Renewable Energy: Biodiesel 101

This workshop provides an introduction to biodiesel, what it is, how it is made, and the nature of the chemical reaction, feed stocks and by-products. Participants will learn about production and business models, including quality control, distribution and storage issues, as well as see a bodies production demonstration. (3 hrs)

• Location Change - Updated Apr 17, 2008
  Thu, May 29, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 226 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7814-700

Retail Opportunities at Biltmore Square Mall

Interested in renting space at the Mall? Want to learn more about potential venues to sell your product or service? Come learn more about available retail space for local businesses at Biltmore Square Mall. For more details, contact Jill Sparks at jsparks@abtech.edu or 828-254-1921, Ext. 5849. (1 hr)

• Tue, Jun 17, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Biltmore Square Mall Course #: SBC-7825-100

SBA: Community Express Program

This seminar is for individuals interested in financing an eligible startup or existing small business. SBA-guaranteed loans available from $1,000 to $250,000, depending on the participating lender. Collateral not required for loans up to $50,000. Terms vary, with competitive rates and fees. Take advantage of required business counseling/technical assistance from local resources. (2 hrs)

• Date and Time Change - Updated Mar 17, 2008
  Tue, Mar 25, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• 102 Asheville Mall Course #: SBC-7710-707
• Date, Time, and Location Change - Updated Apr 28, 2008
  Tue, May 06, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
• 101 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SBC-7710-705
• Additional Class Added - Updated May 16, 2008
  Thu, May 29, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7710-716
• Additional Class Added - Updated Apr 07, 2008
  Thu, May 29, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7710-710

SBA: Programs and Services for Your Small Business

Discover the many programs and services offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration for startup as well as existing small businesses. Find out the available SBA-sponsored and SBA-funded resources to counsel and train small business owners in all areas of small business management (including business planning). Find out what it takes to obtain a small business loan and to access SBA financing sources in particular. Discover the SBA government contracting minority and other certification programs which can enable your small business to obtain federal government contract work. (2 hrs)

• Tue, Apr 01, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• 102 Asheville Mall Course #: SBC-7706-701
• Location Change - Updated Apr 15, 2008
  Tue, May 06, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• 118 Ramsey, Madison Campus Course #: SBC-7706-702

SCORE: Accounting for Non-Accountants

This course is designed to teach small business owners how to prepare and understand financial statements and how they can use them to determine the growth of their business. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling 828-271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (4.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Apr 19, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7712-709

SCORE: Financing Your Small Business

This seminar answers the question: How do I get a business loan? You will learn what documents are needed, how to approach the lender and what the lender is seeking. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling (828)271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (3.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Mar 15, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
• Location Change - Updated Jan 29, 2008
  128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7715-701

SCORE: Great Beginnings

This seminar is designed specifically for the new business owner or wannabe owner. You will learn how to choose the right business legal structure, finance your business, keep acceptable records and manage risk. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling 828-271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (4.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Apr 05, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7716-702

SCORE: Marketing Your Business to Success

This course is designed to teach students how to determine the market for their product or service for their business and how to select and implement the best marketing practices. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling 828-271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (3.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Apr 26, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7717-702

SCORE: The Internet for Small Business

In this seminar you will learn how to use the Internet to effectively market your business. You will receive a disc with hundreds of references and free downloads as part of the seminar materials. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling 828-271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (3.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, May 10, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7718-703

SCORE: Time Management - Increase your Productivity, Not Your Hours

This seminar presents many ideas and tools that you can use to increase your effectiveness without increasing your hours. You will start seeing real-life results immediately. (3 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Mar 08, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
• Day \ Date \ Location Change - Updated Feb 12, 2008
  200 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7719-710

SCORE: Top Line Retail Strategies for Bottom Line Results

Every successful retailer knows this secret: if you do not give your customer total satisfaction on every visit, one of your competitors will! In this fact-filled seminar you will be given dozens of tips to help your business become a model of retailing excellence regardless of its size. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at http://ashevillescore.org/, (828)271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (3 hrs) No fee exemption

• Tue, Mar 18, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7720-702

SCORE: Your Business Plan

The program will allow you to test your business before you invest your time and money, evaluate if your current business needs improvement and prepare you to go to a lender or investor with a winning proposal. Please note: Students must register directly with Asheville SCORE at ashevillescore.org or by calling 828-271-4786. Do not send payment to A-B Tech. (3.5 hrs) No fee exemption

• Sat, Apr 12, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
• 128 Haynes, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7721-703

Technology Commercialization: An Introduction

This introductory workshop provides an introduction to biodiesel, what it is, how it is made, and the nature of the chemical reaction, feed stocks and by-products. Participants will learn about production and business models, including quality control, distribution and storage issues, as well as see a biodiesel production demonstration. (3 hrs)

• Thu, May 22, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• 2046 Small Business Center, Enka Campus Course #: SBC-7813-700

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