by Wendy Harrison

FRANKLIN
If problem solving and working with your hands is your forte, then enrolling at Paul D. Camp Community College for the spring 2017 semester may be the answer for you.

As a full-time student, you can get training that will earn you a Career Studies Certificate in nine months, which will qualify you for a number of positions in building maintenance.

The curriculum entails training in the basic principles and skills related to the following: heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), electricity, plumbing, carpentry, safety, blueprint reading, and welding.

“The program benefits recent high school graduates, people transitioning from the military or displaced workers,” said Industrial Trades instructor Richard Baker. “There are a number of jobs that you can get with this credential.”

Careers range from maintenance and repair workers to first-line supervisors of housekeeping. Among jobs are positions such as facilities manager, equipment engineering technician, maintenance supervisor, environmental services director and housekeeping supervisor.

“With four additional courses, a student can also attain a Career Studies Certificate in HVAC,” said Baker.

Jobs for building maintenance positions are expected to grow 6 percent by 2024. The annual mean wage for general maintenance and repair workers in Virginia was up to a little more than $41,000 in May 2015.

“Since this is a 24-credit curriculum, the program is financial aid eligible to students who qualify,” said Baker. In addition, scholarships are available to those who have recently completed a GED.

Registration is underway with classes beginning Jan. 9, 2017. For more information, contact Baker at 569-6729 or rbaker@pdc.edu.

WENDY HARRISON is the public relations specialist for Paul D. Camp Community College. She can be reached at wharrison@pdc.edu.