Ashland Community and Technical College enhances diploma program to award associate degree

Ashland Community and Technical College has enhanced its electrical technology program, altering it so that the program awards students with an associate of applied science degree, instead of the diploma it awarded up until now. The change will take effect beginning in the Fall 2025 semester.

According to an article on Ashland Community and Technical College’s website, Dr. Shannon Hankins, who serves as the associate dean of technical education, explained the reason for the change. Hankins is quoted as saying, “This new degree offering is a direct response to the growing demand for skilled electricians in our region, providing students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the industry. We are committed to preparing our students for successful careers and meeting our area’s workforce needs.”

The program’s faculty recommended the change upon advice from the local electrical industry. The transition to an associate degree will give students the more robust background they will need to find success in their career, as students will receive both the technical and hands-on skills for the workplace, as well as knowledge in math, science, and communication.

The electrical technology program gives students the opportunity to work with tools that are prevalent in the industry, including motor controls and PLCs.

In addition to the transition to awarding a degree, the program is working to better accommodate students on their educational journeys by offering two courses within the program as evening courses, helping students who are working while attending classes be able to better fit learning into schedule. These courses are Circuits I and industrial safety.

For more information about Ashland Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.