Month: December 2024

An older male worker wearing glasses and blue overalls instructs a younger male worker in a hard hat and plaid shirt in a manufacturing setting. They are reviewing a technical document together, symbolizing training and skill development in the workplace.

ECC Receives $1.2 Million for Area Manufacturers

December 30, 2024 | Campus News

The East Central College Center for Workforce Development (CWD) has received $1.2 million in customized training funds to support leadership development and workforce training for employees at several area manufacturers in the region.

The funds are provided through the Missouri One Start program, a part of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Ranging from $8,000 to $65,000 per company, the funds will help manufacturers enhance employee skills, foster leadership growth, and strengthen the region’s workforce. A total of 32 area manufacturers are receiving funding.

“This funding is a significant investment in our local economy and workforce,” said Todd Tracy, CWD Executive Director. “We are proud to partner with area businesses to provide tailored training programs that meet their specific needs and drive success.”

Impact Locally

According to Connie Rasmussen of Bugeye Technologies in Union, the company is using the training funds to provide leadership development for its management team and technical training for its employees. The training focuses on building management skills, achieving IPC certification, and improving proficiency in Excel—all critical for their operations as a smaller company.

“The training funds have allowed us to complete training for our managers and employees that we would have otherwise not been in our budget,” Rasmussen said. “The majority of our management team are younger employees and have not been in a managerial position previously, so the additional training has been beneficial in helping develop good Managers.”

She added that training funds like these are crucial to small businesses with limited training budgets.

“It is also helpful that ECC supports the growth and development of smaller businesses in our area,” Rasmussen said. “The grant funds are a tremendous help to small businesses.”

Kayla Whitcraft, Operations Analyst and Project Manager at Enjet Aero, shared that the company has benefited from customized training in leadership development, CNC programming, and CMM statistical analysis. This training has equipped their team with specialized skills necessary for success in the aerospace industry.

“Leadership development is crucial for fostering a strong, capable management team that can drive the company forward,” Whitcraft said. “The training provided has equipped our leaders with strategic thinking, decision-making, and people management skills, which are essential for guiding their teams and achieving our business objectives.”

Invaluable Partnership

Whitcraft noted that working with ECC’s CWD for customized training funds allows local employees to develop skills tailored to their needs.

“Partnerships with ECC’s Center for Workforce Development are invaluable as they provide access to high-quality, customized training programs that meet the specific needs of our company,” she added. “These collaborations also support the local workforce by enhancing their skills, making them more employable, and contributing to the economic growth of the region.”

Lacey Oswald, with WEG Transformers USA, explained that the Washington-based manufacturer has used the funds to enhance technical abilities, gain industry-specific certifications, and improve soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These targeted efforts have led to increased productivity, better employee retention, and greater overall competitiveness.

“Our company has significantly benefited from the Missouri One Start program through tailored training solutions that address our specific workforce needs,” she said. “This has led to increased productivity, improved employee retention, and enhanced overall competitiveness in our industry.”

The College’s CWD plays a key role in connecting local businesses with the resources and training they need to thrive. By leveraging Missouri One Start funding, ECC ensures that area manufacturers can continue to innovate and lead in their industries while creating opportunities for employees to grow professionally.

To learn more about CWD industry training and consulting, visit www.eastcentral.edu/cwd/.

Fall Writing Contest Winners

December 18, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The East Central College English and Humanities Department has announced the winners of this fall’s Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction Writing Contest.

“Stories, whether they are true or not, can be a kind of nourishment when life looks like a lonely trail,” said Josh Stroup, Assistant Professor and English Department Chair. “The stories that our students shared with us kept our judges full, and we hope to share this bounty with you all in the Spring 2025 edition of the Literary and Art Review.”

The department encourages readers to recognize these students for their dedication to crafting thoughtful and compelling work. While many stories were submitted—and all had something unique to offer—the winners are:

Fiction Winners

First Place — Lauren Hoey’s “Night Shift” — $100
Second Place — Hope Bratch’s “The Classic Chevrolet” — $50
Third Place — Mary Misener’s “The Kingdom of Ozymandias” — $25

Creative Non-Fiction Winners

First Place — Nicole Pope’s “Expanding Limitations” — $100
Second Place — Madeline Johnsen’s “Big Bad Love: Love Drives Purpose” — $50
Third Place — Kaylee Wonder’s “The Twins” — $25

The department extends its gratitude to the contest judges: John Hardecke, Assistant Professor; Linda Barro, Associate Professor; Dr. Aurelia VonTress, Instructor; and Dr. Kami Hancock, instructor.

Additional opportunities to showcase student creativity are on the horizon. The department will announce details for the upcoming Poetry and Research Writing Contests this spring.

ECC Rolla Nursing Students Honored at Pinning Ceremony

December 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Three East Central College Rolla graduates from the LPN to RN Bridge program were honored for their exceptional performance in clinical settings and academics.
Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, and Tabitha Martin received recognition on Dec. 10 during the program’s pinning ceremony, which celebrates licensed practical nurses who continued their education to become registered nurses.

This year’s guest speaker was Leslie Crabtree, Clinical Nurse Educator at Mercy Hospital Washington and a Class of 2022 ECC LPN-to-RN graduate.
The ECC Rolla LPN to RN Bridge Class of 2024 includes Priscilla Brandhorst, Kimberly Bridgeman, Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, Caitlin Hughes, Faith Kelley, Tabitha Martin, Samantha Pointer, and Carley Tritch.
Awards of Excellence
As part of the ceremony, graduates were recognized for their outstanding achievements in clinical and academic settings.
• Savannah Gregory received the ECC Outstanding Nursing Student Award, showcasing her commitment, adaptability, and integrity. Savannah has been described as highly organized and determined, excelling in clinical settings and seeking unique learning opportunities. Her preceptor noted that she is a “phenomenal addition” to the nursing profession.

• Tabitha Martin was honored with the Mercy Hospital Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Tabitha’s quiet focus and compassionate care have left a lasting impression on clinical staff. Her ability to prioritize patient-centered care with confidence and organizational skill distinguishes her as a future asset to any nursing team.
• Morgan Buffington was recognized with the Phelps Health Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Morgan’s dedication to quality, compassionate care and her willingness to embrace challenges were celebrated. Her preceptor described her as a “good team player” who skillfully translates knowledge into practice.

Raenhard Wesselschmidt, left, a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) biologist and East Central College alumnus, provides a hands-on lesson on Chronic Wasting Disease's impact on deer to East Central College biology students during testing sessions at the Union campus. Students Adam Stevens, Addison Imhof, and Lily Purschke observe and participate as Wesselschmidt demonstrates key testing techniques, including lymph node extraction, estimating deer age based on tooth growth and wear, and completing lab submission documentation. The group is pictured in a lab setting with tools and materials on the table.

Biology Students Gain Hands-On Experience in Wildlife Conservation

December 13, 2024 | Alumni Spotlight Campus News

East Central College students are taking their biology studies to new heights through hands-on learning opportunities—made possible by resources just steps away from campus.

As an official Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) collection site, ECC has partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to support white-tailed deer testing, giving students a front-row seat to real-world conservation efforts.

Raenhard Wesselschmidt, right, a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) biologist and East Central College alumnus, guides ECC biology students during a hands-on Chronic Wasting Disease testing session at the Union campus. Students Addison Imhof, Lily Purschke, and Adam Stevens (left to right) observe and participate in testing procedures, including handling harvested deer heads. The group is pictured working in a lab setting, wearing lab coats and gloves, with tools and materials on the table.

For the past two deer seasons, ECC has served as a drop-off location where hunters can leave harvested deer heads for free CWD testing. Samples collected are sent to testing facilities, including the University of Missouri-Columbia, with results available online within weeks.

This year, Principles of Biology I and II students from Dr. Parvadha Acosta’s classes joined a critical wildlife monitoring project under the guidance of Kevin Dixon—ECC biology associate professor, experienced MDC volunteer, and avid deer hunter.

During three sessions so far, students have participated at varying levels, from observing the process to receiving hands-on guidance. Students involved include Ethan Agren, Alyvia Helm, Katelyn Temples, Addison Imhof, Trinity Morgan, Lily Purschke, and Adam Stevens. Instructor Dr. Clarissa Brown also took part in a testing session.

MDC biologist and ECC alumnus Raenhard Wesselschmidt introduced students to the impacts of CWD and demonstrated essential techniques, such as lymph node extraction, estimating deer age based on tooth growth and wear, and completing lab submission documentation.

Under his supervision, students practiced these techniques, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Together, Wesselschmidt, Dixon, and the students processed 17 deer during one session. With deer hunting season running through January 15, students will have additional opportunities to participate before the 2024-2025 season concludes.

This partnership highlights ECC’s dedication to providing students with unique, experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to real-world challenges.

ECC students can earn an Associate of Arts degree in Biology and transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue careers in wildlife conservation, environmental science, zoology, public health, genetic research, ecology, biomedical research, and science education.

Learn more about ECC’s Biology pathway at www.eastcentral.edu/science/biology/.

ECC Employees are MCCA Award Finalists

December 2, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College faculty and staff members were recently named finalists for Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) awards. The recognition highlights their dedication to students, excellence in their fields, and contributions to the ECC community.

Aramburu Nominated for Excellence in Teaching

Ellen Aramburu, assistant professor of Spanish, was named a finalist for the MCCA Excellence in Teaching Award. She was recognized for her innovative approach to language instruction, fostering a dynamic and supportive classroom environment that encourages students to embrace the challenges of learning a new language. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aramburu implemented advanced online learning tools to ensure student success. She also led ECC’s Global Education efforts, organizing events such as International Education Week and International Day to bring cultural insight to campus.

Noelker Recognized for Classified Staff Achievement

Jon Noelker, a Learning Center specialist and longtime adjunct faculty member, was a finalist for the MCCA Classified Staff Achievement Award. With more than 30 years of service to students, Noelker is known for his tireless commitment to academic success. He has tutored hundreds of students in math, science, and other subjects, even taking additional courses to better meet student needs. Noelker also played a vital role in ECC’s Summer Bridge program, which helps students prepare for college-level coursework.

Chaney Honored as Outstanding Adjunct Finalist

Elisha Chaney, an adjunct nursing instructor, was a finalist for the MCCA Outstanding Adjunct Award. Chaney was celebrated for her high standards and unwavering support of her students. She excels as both a classroom and clinical educator, balancing the rigor of nursing education with individualized assistance to help students succeed. Chaney’s positivity and flexibility have made her an integral part of ECC’s Nursing program.