Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development division is expanding its professional training opportunities in Mission, announcing a new slate of short, affordable courses beginning in January at the Center for Education and Economic Development (CEED).
The initiative aims to provide Mission-area residents with convenient access to workplace skills training while introducing them to the quality of instruction offered through STC’s Continuing Education programs.
Daniela Masten, STC director of Continuing Education said the division designed the upcoming lineup to help individuals strengthen their communication, leadership and customer interaction skills in a supportive and approachable learning environment.
“We want to empower individuals who are seeking to upskill, learn something new or grow within their current employment,” Masten said. “These CEED offerings give the community a comfortable introduction to higher education while learning from STC faculty close to home.”
Each of the courses taking place in January is a one-day four-hour session offered at a minimal cost of $28.
The first course, Customer Service, will be held on Jan. 7 and is designed to help participants develop strong communication skills, effective problem-solving strategies and professional approaches to challenging situations.
Then on Jan. 12, STC will offer Telephone Etiquette, a course centered on professional phone communication, including best practices for answering and transferring calls, taking messages and managing difficult conversations with confidence and courtesy.
Later in the month on Jan. 26, a Leadership course will guide current and aspiring leaders through key principles such as communication, decision-making, conflict resolution and team building. Participants in the course will work through real-world scenarios to build practical skills they can immediately apply in the workplace.
Masten emphasized that CEED offers an inviting setting for individuals who may be exploring professional development for the first time, or who prefer taking classes in a more community-based environment.
She said STC’s goal is to create opportunities that help residents build confidence as they consider additional continuing education or academic pathways.
“This is a great step,” Masten said. “It gives individuals the chance to see what an STC course feels like, learn valuable skills and hopefully build the confidence to continue their educational journey.”
Registration for the courses is available through STC’s Continuing Education’s CEED portal at southtexascollege.edu/cpit/ceed-courses.html.
Information source: STC
