TCTC New facility spurs growth

A hospitality management program is in the works.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
LORDSTOWN -- Trumbull Career and Technical Center plans to offer additional adult programs now that it has more room to grow.
TCTC officials conducted a grand opening Thursday at its new adult training center in the former Gordon D. James Career Center.
The James center closed at the end of the last school year, and TCTC is leasing the building from Lordstown schools for adult programs. The new facility started offering programs this month.
Mike Piros, director of the adult training center, said 631 adults are enrolled in center programs, and officials hope that increases.
"Programs in the medical field are our most popular," Piros said.
According to labor market statistics for the Trumbull-Mahoning County area in 2002 through 2008, the medical field is projected to grow, he said.
"We have five full-time programs now and our licensed practical nursing program fills up a year in advance," Piros said.
Upcoming program
Beginning in January, TCTC plans to offer a hospitality management program. Participants would graduate with certifications from the American Hotel and Lodging Association and in food and beverage service, operations and customer service.
"When a student gets done with the program, they'll be able to work as an assistant manager in a restaurant or hotel," Piros said.
The program also will include 90 hours of on-the-job-training, or a mentorship element. Participants in that aspect of the program haven't been determined.
Working with businesses
An advisory council of local business people and restaurant owners in the community is helping put the hospitality management program together.
Other changes include working with General Motors Lordstown and WCI Steel to determine what their needs are.
"We have a first-class facility right here in our backyard, and we should take advantage of it," said Jim Graham, president of UAW Local 1112.
Details of how the center, companies and union will work together haven't been finalized.
"We need to sit down and talk and see what they have to offer and how we can work together," Graham said.
Piros said the adult training center also offers fun and instructional programs and classes for the community such as yoga, art classes and computer sessions for seniors.
Although adult programs have moved to the Lordstown facility, most of the space at the Champion building is being used, said Superintendent Wayne McClain.
"As we're starting new programs, we anticipate additional classrooms will be added in the next few years," he said.