Essential training for workforce programs returned to the LSC-North Harris and LSC-East Aldine Center campuses on Monday, June 1, during a limited reopening to facilitate in-person training required for spring semester credit.

The six programs that returned to campus are:

• Electrical Technology
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Machining Technology
• Welding Technology
• Inspection Technology

These courses are being completed while following strict safety and social distancing practices. The reopening of the campus was carefully orchestrated so that all students and faculty are checked by health officials as they enter buildings, only enter through designated entrances, and must always wear a face mask.

During the first two weeks back on campus, faculty and students have experienced a smooth transition. For programs like EMS, the added safety guidelines provide students a learning experience that will help them once they enter the workforce.

“The use of PPE has added an element of realism to our coursework in healthcare,” said Dan Rathe, EMS program director. “The students are having direct experience with the challenges of communicating between each other, much like that of the challenges of working with patients while wearing PPE.”

LSC-North Harris is also partnering with the Houston Fire Department to provide students on-site training with EMS professionals who have experienced firsthand the challenges of working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Partnering with the Houston Fire Department fosters a feeling of pride in the EMS Professions Department,” said Rathe. “We are teaching those who will have a direct impact on the healthcare of the community. LSC-North Harris EMS Professions and HFD are better together.”

Workforce programs offer associate degree and certificate options while providing students the opportunity to enter the workforce quickly and with essential skills sought after by employers.

Enrollment is currently open for summer II and fall courses. Summer II sessions begin July 9, and fall classes begin August 24. For more information on the programs offered or to enroll, please visit LoneStar.edu/LearnMore.

Lone Star College offers high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 99,000 students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion. LSC consists of seven colleges, eight centers, two university centers, Lone Star Corporate College and LSC-Online. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.

A healthcare worker takes the temperature of a student entering the Construction and Skilled Trades Technology Center before attending his workforce training course.

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