with local health departments to host flu clinics and other preventive care services on campus. “Student support services are top of mind—mental health resources, career counseling, academic advising, etc. —so we can make sure our students have every opportunity to succeed on our campuses and beyond,” emphasizes CT State President O. John Maduko. The college’s public-private partnerships extend into educational opportunities for unique populations, including incarcerated individuals. Through Second Chance Pell, Asnuntuck offers classes at nearby correctional facilities, educating over 1,000 students. “We currently teach around 200 to 250 incarcerated students each semester,”Dr.Coach notes.The program aims to reduce recidivism by equipping students with skills they can use upon release.“It’s amazing to see these students continue their education or secure employment afterward,” Coach adds, highlighting the program’s impact on their futures. INDUSTRY-RECOGNIZED CERTIFICATIONS AND FLEXIBLE PATHWAYS Asnuntuck’s Advanced Manufacturing program stands out for its robust credentialing opportunities, supported by the college’s ISO 9001 accreditation. “We are one of the very few educational facilities with that designation,” says Dr. Coach, noting that this international quality standard is typically found in industry, not academia. In addition to ISO standards, the college’s National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) accreditation allows students in machine technology to earn NIMS credentials, while welding students can gain certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS). The program’s structure follows the practical, careerfocused philosophy that Asnuntuck champions. In a unique “flipped” approach, students spend their first year earning a hands-on certificate in fields like welding or CNC machining. After this intensive year, many enter the workforce, with local companies often covering tuition for students who return to complete their associate’s degree.“Our students can get that initial credential, start working, and then chip away at their associate’s degree when they’re ready,” Dr. Coach says.The college’s partnerships with 93 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 12 CT STATE ASNUNTUCK
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