North Magazine - Spring 2013

north A Magazine for Northland CTC Alumni & Friends

Spring 2013

WRESTLING

HEALTHY & SECURE GLIMPSE INTO NURSING.

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NORTHLAND WELDING SIMULATOR

Finds Success at Mayo.

ALUM

PIONEERS ADD

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UNIQUE SCHOLARSHIPS

FREE TUITION

Imagery Analysis Program

OF

TABLE CONTENTS

2 UPCOMING DATES 4 SEMESTER IN REVIEW PIONEER ATHLETICS 7

PROUD MOMENTS 8

10 NATION’S FIRST IA PROGRAM INDUSTRY SUPPORT 12 15 FOUNDATION UPDATE 16 50 UNIQUE SCHOLARSIPS UNPLUGGED WITH RON WEST 24 27 GLIMPSE INTO NURSING FITNESS CENTER ADDED 31 UNMANNED WITH JON BECK 32 34 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Northland Community and Technical College is a great place to call home. We are a community of learners and do-ers. The broad array of challenges facing our country and our region provide exciting opportunities for Northland’s faculty and staff to work on solutions and innovations.

We have just initiated “first-in-the-nation” programs in unmanned aerial systems maintenance and imagery analysis. Our many programs in health-related professions provide the backbone of staffing for regional health providers. Our trades and technical programs train highly-skilled workers for the booming employment needs of the Red River Valley and western North Dakota. Students who start their baccalaureate degrees here do very well when they transfer; Northland has many strong articulations with universities. And, we provide students with wonderful opportunities to develop leadership skills and lifelong interests.

When we detect that we can improve, we do so. This year, we are dedicating ourselves to improving our rates of student success. We strive to provide great advising to students as they plan their educational pathways. A majority of our students come from backgrounds where higher education is not part of their family experience. Consequently, many start college with the need to improve their basic skills in reading, writing, and math. We offer support in our learning centers, libraries, and testing centers. Counselors and advisors are available at both of our campuses.

Northland also enjoys tremendous support from its communities, employers, and industry partners throughout the area. Our NCTC Foundation has a long history of supporting student through scholarships – granting more than $150,000 in scholarship funds annually.

We hope that you will enjoy reviewing Northland’s impact through this e-zine. Please come and visit us sometime!

Dr. Anne Temte

President, Northland CTC

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UPCOMING DATES Jan. 14: Spring Semester Starts Jan. 18: Last Day to Add/Drop an Online Class (NORTHLAND) or On-campus Jan. 21: Martin Luther King Jr. Day - No Classes - College Closed

Feb. 4: Financial Aid Disbursement (Direct Deposit) Feb. 11: Financial Aid Disbursement (Paper Checks) Feb. 18: Presidents’ Day HolidayNo Classes - College Closed

March 1: Graduation Applications Due March 8: Mid-Term of Semester March 11-15: Spring Break (No Classes)

May 13-16: Finals Week May 16: Graduation - Thief River Falls, MN May 17: Graduation - East Grand Forks, MN May 17: Grades Due

NORTHLAND TRIVIA

Find these terms: aerospace athletics career certificate college community degree east grand forks education graduation health imagery analysis

ACROSS 3:-Initials of the Pioneer athletic conference 5: www.______________.edu 8- The NCTC Foundation offers students many of 2these to help offset tuition costs.

9- Northland’s EGF campus opened a new ________ center this semester 14- Northland’s mascot 15- Northland’s school colors (2) 16- This campus houses the AMT and UAS programs.

18- Initials of Northland’s newest program 19- Northland presidents last name 20- Number of Northland’s campuses

DOWN 1- Sport that made it to the NJCAA tournament two years running 2- Every student should fill out this application for financial aid 4- Men’s baseball plays on ________ field.

6- Northland’s twitter handle is @________ 7-Happens on May 16 &17, 2013 10- Pioneer 90.1 call letters 11- Every student receives their own ________ account 12 -Northland was named a _______ friendly school again this year 13- Northlands newest sport 17- Town where our Northern most site is located

liberal arts Northland nursing online pioneer roseau success technical thief river falls think northland transfer

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SEMESTER REVIEW Another semester is in the books

at Northland. Life moves quickly at Northland

and we want to stop and briefly reflect on a few of the highlights and important events from fall semester. A quick glance at Northland’s website will give a much more detailed look at all of the great things that happened but in this article we will touch on Vice President Hanson’s interim position change, a cooperative effort between Altru and the state to get new radiologic equipment, Pioneer volleyball’s banner season, and an increase in enrollment at Northland.

Kent Hanson, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, accepted a one-year interim position as president of Riverland Community College in Austin, Albert Lea, and Owatonna. His departure has required the reshuffling of many responsibilities. Rather than refilling his position on a one-year temporary basis, the deans agreed to take on more responsibilities over the course of this year. Kudos to deans Brian Huschle, Steve Crittenden, Jim Retka, Mary Fontes, and new Dean of Nursing Jodi StaussStassen for their willingness to shoulder this great responsibility.

Northland Community & Technical College was chosen as one of 15 schools that received funds to update equipment. This was made possible by a state appropriation and private funding from businesses around the state, and will support education and training in high-demand occupations. Northland received $49,000 in state funds matched by $51,000 in private funding from Altru Health System for a computed radiography unit valued at $100,000 that will give radiologic technology students hands-on experience on equipment now used in the health care industry. “Northland is an important asset to the community as they train health care professionals for areas that are always in high demand. We see investments in these educational partnerships as an investment in the future of medicine in our region,” said Dave Molmen, CEO of Altru Health System.

For the second straight year, the Northland women’s volleyball team advanced to the NJCAA national tournament. The Pioneers took a third place finish back to Thief River Falls after some intense competition. The Pioneers were ranked No. 3 in the preseason polls and were seeded third in the NJCAA national tournament. The team was also the NJCAA Region 13B champion for the second straight year.

It was a 27-8 season for head coach Abdul Chamma and the Pioneers.

Northland is also very proud to report that enrollment is up again this semester. Mary Fontes, Dean of Student Services, reported that Northland’s enrollment appears to be 3-4% higher. This statistic gives proof that Northland is committed to offering high quality education at an affordable price.

At a time, in an area with low unemployment, an increase in enrollment is opposite of national trends and Northland is pleased to be able to say that.

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PIONEER ATHLETICS PIONEER FOOTBALL OVERALL RECORD 5-3-0 CONFERENCE RECORD 3-1-0

The National Junior College Athletic Conference has recognized Pioneer Shawn Johnson as 1st Team All American in Division III Football.

Players are selected based on their statistics and the role they play in their team’s success. Johnson, was a sophomore linebacker for the Northland Pioneer football team which were Co Northern Division champions this year, and made it to the Minnesota College Athletic Conference Semi Finals where their season was ended by Central Lakes Community College. Shawn was named MCAC 1st Team All Division, All Region 13 Football Team, named defensive player of the year for the Minnesota Athletic Conference and now being named NJCAA All American first team.

PIONEER VOLLEYBALL OVERALL RECORD 27-8-0 CONFERENCE RECORD 12-2-0

PIONEER WRESTLING

Northland to Add Wrestling Program in Fall 2013 Northland Community & Technical College is proud to announce the addition of a men’s wrestling program. The men’s wrestling program will be housed on the Thief River Falls campus. The wrestling team’s inaugural season will begin in the fall of 2013.

The Pioneer wrestling team will compete in the Minnesota College Athletic Conference (MCAC). Northland plans to have 20 to 25 student wrestlers on the team. “We are very excited to start an intercollegiate wrestling program at Northland. Wrestling in northwest Minnesota has a strong tradition of excellence and great fan support in our region. Adding intercollegiate wrestling to Northland will help the college grow and support our current programs,” said Dean of Student Development Steve Crittenden.

Northland plans to begin the recruiting process for student wrestlers by January. The hiring process for the head coach is starting this week. “It is our hope this is the first step in developing more intercollegiate athletic programs for men and women at Northland.

We look forward to exploring more athletic offerings in the near future,” added Crittenden.

MCAC Region 13B Champions Third place at NJCAA Division III Volleyball National Tournament Tia Klein of Grand Forks, ND and Ashley Lindgren of Stephen, MN both received first team All American honors for Volleyball. Both were named first team ALL Division for the MCAC Conference and also to the All Region 13 team.

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PROUD MOMENTS Northland RN Club Adopts Family for Christmas

Lincoln Electric VRTEX 360 Welding Simulator

Northland Community & Technical College’s RN club showed their Christmas spirit by helping a family in need this holiday season. The club adopted a family in need from Polk County Victim Services.

Northland recently purchased the Lincoln Electric VRTEX 360 Welding Simulator with help from a grant through the 360 Degree Center of Excellence.

The simulator offers real on-the-job scenarios; you can virtually weld on a desert base, a skyscraper, in a power plant, or in a welding booth.

Northland Community & Technical College Wins Seven Medallion Awards At Regional Marketing Conference Northland Community & Technical College recently participated in the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) district conference and won seven Medallion Awards. Northland was awarded three gold medallions, two silver medallions, and two bronze medallions.

Northland Dean James Retka Elected 2013 NCATC President The National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC) announced that James Retka, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development, at Northland Community and Technical College (NCTC), has been elected by its board of directors as president for 2013. Retka received the nomination of the NCATC Board during its fall 2012 National Conference at Gateway Technical College in Racine, WI. NCATC Executive Director J. Craig McAtee said, “The NCATC membership continues to nominate, elect, and populate the NCATC Board of Directors with an amazing and diverse group of ATC leaders across the country. And, the NCATC Board continues to elect leadership of highly motivated, actively involved leaders from the nation’s community and technical colleges. The selection of Jim Retka as the NCATC Board President for 2013 – continues to raise the bar on an already illustrious list of past Coalition leaders – and I am delighted to serve Jim, the Board, and our membership going forward”

Northland Ranked Third in America in Practical Nursing Associate Degrees Produced in 2010-11 Northland Community & Technical College was recently ranked third in America in practical nursing, vocational nursing, and nursing assistant associate degrees awarded in 2010-11 by Community College Week magazine. Community College Week is the independent voice that covers community, technical, and junior colleges since 1988. In its annual report that lists top degree producers across the country, Northland received third place honors with 139 associates degrees awarded in the practical nursing field.

Taught at both Northland campuses and through distance education, the Practical Nursing (PN) program prepares students to practice within the scope of practical nursing under the supervision of a registered nurse. The student is taught to use the nursing process at the practical nurse level in the maintenance of health and prevention of illness, the observation and nursing care of persons experiencing changes in health status, and the administration of prescribed medication and treatments.

Students receive supervised learning experience in caring for individuals in a variety of health care settings, such as hospitals, long term care facilities, and physician clinic settings. With a 12.2% expected job growth rate in Minnesota by 2016, PN students finish school with a bright employment forecast in front of them.

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Northland RN Club

Medallion Awards

Northland Nursing

James Retka

VRTEX 360 Welding Simulator

FREE TUITION: NATION’S FIRST IMAGERY ANALYSIS PROGRAM One of the first things that come to mind when you think about a college education is student debt.

Even an affordable school is still very expensive and a major investment.

Imagine the possibility of getting a free college education in a program that is the first of it’s kind in America. Northland Community & Technical College is pleased to announce the addition of just that. The brand

new Imagery Analysis (IA) program started in January 2013.

The IA program is the first program of it’s kind in America and will be located at Northland’s Thief River Falls, Minn. campus. The program is funded through a Department of Labor grant and this means FREE TUITION* for you. “The Imagery Analysis program will prepare

students to enter an emerging field.

Because Northland’s students will be among the first in the nation so trained, they will be prepared to be the pioneers and leaders as this industry opens,” said Northland president Dr. Anne Temte.

The Imagery Analysis program is a 30 credit two-semester program. The innovative program teaches you to

become a skilled Imagery Analyst at the entry level. You will learn how to interpret and distinguish imagery from a variety of sources and sensors that are being used in the field today. With the increased use of unmanned aerial vehicles for surveillance, the field is overwhelmed with data and desperately need people to interpret this data.

Northland Aerospace saw the need for skilled imagery analysts and developed this program to prepare students to fill this emerging gap in the workforce.

As a student of this pioneering program, you can expect handson training from industry experts.

You will be taught using the newest technology in simulated workplace environments and ultra-modern labs to ensure you are ready to enter the workforce upon completion. You can expect to learn how to identify key features and obtain precise measurements within the area of interest, integrate and interpret maps and charts as they relate to imagery, and develop imagery information dissemination skills. Students will acquire a variety of skills ranging from Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) general knowledge to a precise depiction of the imagery objective.

Students receive hands-on training using Full Motion Video UAS derived imagery and other sensor data. “Northland has built a platform from which imagery analysis curriculum can be articulated.

One would be perplexed to find a comparable certificate program at this academic level,� added Sterling Williams, Imagery Analysis program manager.

Since this is such a new field, you may be wondering if you would be a good fit for this program. An im-

agery analyst should be able to be a strong communicator (both verbal and nonverbal), an active learner, critical thinker, be able to be very attentive to details, and be proficient on a computer. An imagery analyst also should be able to work independently, use innovation as it relates to the workplace, be adaptable and flexible, be persistent, and have excellent self-control.

As an imagery analyst, there are four core functions that you will provide. You will be interacting with technology; namely computers, full motion video, and still imagery. You will be gathering and reporting vital information through observation and analysis from a variety of sources. You will be processing information by compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. You will be communicating verbally and nonverbally to supervisors, peers, and subordinates through all communication channels.

Once you graduate, you will be in a position to be employable virtually anywhere.

According to Simply Hired, the average salary for imagery analyst jobs is $69,000. Average imagery analyst salaries can vary greatly due to company, location, industry, experience, and benefits. We welcome you to visit our campus to see what our Imagery Analysis program can offer you. Schedule your campus visit today at northlandaerospace.com or by calling 1.800.959.6282.

IMAGERY ANALYSIS

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Northrop Grumman Donates $10,000 to the Northland Community & Technical College Foundation

Northrop Grumman donated $10,000 to the Northland Community & Technical College Foundation (NCTC Foundation) on July 31, 2012. The gift will be used to help assist in the startup of the new Northland Aerospace Foundation (NAF).

The NAF is being formed in response to the growth of Northland Community & Technical College’s aerospace programs (Northland

Aerospace). Northland Aerospace is comprised of the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program, the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program, and the Imagery and Data Analysis (IA) program.

The UAS and IA programs at Northland are the first of their kind in America.

Northrop Grumman has been a key partner throughout the growth of Northland Aerospace. “Northland’s partnership with Northrop Grumman continues to grow. This donation is a tangible indication of a relationship that is deep and strong.

Our college and our students

benefit greatly from the support we have received from Northrop Grumman in program development, equipment and software, and cutting-edge expertise in the UAS industry,” said Northland president Anne Temte.

“Northrop Grumman is a leader in unmanned systems,” said Janis Pamiljans, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems sector vice president and general manager for Unmanned Systems. “In order to maintain that leadership we need to grow the men and women who will design, operate, manage and lead the unmanned capabilities of

INDUSTRY SUPPORT tomorrow. That’s why it’s critically important that we partner with organizations like Northland Community & Technical College, as we continue to expand our unmanned aircraft presence at Grand Forks Air Force Base.”

Northrop has provided several donations in the past, most notably, Northrop Grumman donated a full scale RQ-4 Block 10 Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system (UAS) model to the NCTC Foundation in 2011.

“Having partnerships is extremely important for identifying the needs of industry. That is especially true in emerging industries like unmanned aircraft systems,” said NAF president Eric Icard. “Northrop Grumman is an industry leader in UAS and has proven to be a key ally for Northland’s vision of setting the standard for UAS training. This donation demonstrates the commitment of Northrop Grumman to their relationship with Northland and we look forward to strengthening that relationship in the years to come,” added Icard.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, and technical

services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Northland Receives Funds to Update Radiologic Equipment from the Legislative Leveraged Equipment Fund

help us to deliver the best training in high-demand fields such as machine technology, engineering, automotive technology, healthcare, information technology and the sciences.”

Northland Community & Technical College was recently chosen as one of 15 schools that will receive funds to update equipment. According to MnSCU, an infusion of more than $1.2 million in new equipment for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU), made possible by a state appropriation and private funding from businesses around the state, will support education and training in high-demand occupations.

MnSCU stated, in May, the Legislature passed and Gov. Mark Dayton signed a one-time appropriation of $457,000 to MnSCU for the “leveraged” acquisition of equipment for instructional programs that produce graduates with skills in highdemand occupations. To receive Legislative Leveraged Equipment Funds, MnSCU colleges and universities were required to secure matching cash or in-kind contributions from non-state sources such as local business, vendors or foundations.

Northland received $49,000 in state funds matched by $51,000 in private funding from Altru Health System for a computed radiography unit valued at $100,000 that gives radiologic technology students hands-on experience on equipment now used in the health care industry.

“We greatly appreciate this financial support from the Legislature and Gov. Dayton and the matching funds from businesses to purchase state-of-the-art equipment,” said MnSCU Chancellor Steven Rosenstone. “The new equipment will

Funds were awarded to 12 colleges and three universities for the purchase of 24 pieces of new equipment, with a total value of nearly $1.2 million. Fifty-three businesses, four vendors and six foundations contributed $731,000 to match the $457,000 state appropriation. As part of the application process, colleges and universities were not only required to have secured non-state funds as a match, but also demonstrate that the equipment will be installed or ordered by December 31, 2012.

“We greatly appreciate this financial support from the Legislature and Gov. Dayton and the matching funds from businesses to purchase state-of-the-art equipment.” MnSCU Chancellor Steven Rosenstone 12

“We are thrilled to be the recipient of the leveraged equipment fund that was provided by the legislature through MnSCU,” said Northland president Dr. Anne Temte. “This is a great way to allow us to work with local partners and Altru Health System stepped up to be our partner in this effort and we are very grateful for them,” she added.

“The students who graduate from this program have a reputation as some of the very best in the Upper Midwest. Advancing to the latest digital technology will help them to maintain that excellence well into the future,” said Dave Molmen, CEO of Altru Health System.

“Northland is an important asset to the community as they train health care professionals for areas that are always in high demand. We see investments in these educational partnerships as an investment in the future of medicine in our region.”

Sanford Health Donates $50,000 to NCTC Foundation The Northland Community & Technical College Foundation (NCTC Foundation) is pleased to announce that Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, SD, has committed to donate $50,000 to the NCTC Foundation. The gift, which will be donated over a five-year period, will be directed towards establishing an endowment, awarding immediate scholarships and one-time support of Northland Community & Technical College’s mobile medical simulator.

Mike Begeman, Chief of Staff and Vice President of Public Affairs for Sanford Health, stated, “Sanford

Health looks forward to its partnership with Northland Community & Technical College. Northland continues to turn out excellent graduates, which includes nursing and other health-related areas.

We are proud to support these fine students who will become the next generation of employees who will be filling roles in our communities throughout the region.”

Eric Tjelle, President of the NCTC Foundation shared, “We are thrilled with Sanford’s support of Northland. They are a vital health system provider in our region, as well as a key employer of Northland graduates. The entire board of directors is grateful for their support of Northland and their investment in scholarships”.

Anne Temte, President of Northland Community & Technical College commented, “Northland has worked extremely hard at becoming a high-quality, accredited nursing program. Sanford’s partnership validates this effort. We are honored to have them as partners and a valuable employer for our graduates.”

“Northland is an important asset to the community as they train health care professionals for areas that are always in high demand. We see investments in these educational partnerships as an investment in the future of medicine in our region.”

Dave Molmen, CEO of Altru Health System

FOUNDATION UPDATE

There are many ways to support Northland Community and Technical College. The Northland Community and Technical College Foundation was originally established to facilitate your gifts and donations to the college. Your cash donations, endowments, stocks and bonds, bequests, and event sponsorships have provided wonderful opportunities for our students as highlighted in some of the other articles in this magazine.

One of the most direct ways to assist students at Northland is by funding a scholarship. Scholarships can be established with flow-through donations that go dollar-for-dollar to students in need. Further, a commitment to start an endowment fund will provide a perpetual source of scholarships into the future.

In contrast to some charitable organizations, there are no administrative fees on donations. 100 percent of your donation will go to the scholarship or designation of your choice.

This year, plan to attend the foundation’s Hangar Dinner and Dance in the Swenson Hangar at Northland’s aerospace campus in Thief River Falls at the end of May, the sixth annual Golf Tournament on August 1 at Valley Golf Course in East Grand Forks, and the 5k/10k Pioneer Run at the Thief River Falls campus later in the fall. Our scholarship ceremonies are also held twice a year on both campuses in January and September.

In the words of Amelia Swanson, a 2012 scholarship recipient from Argyle, “Your generosity is helping make my dream possible. Putting forth the effort to help others further their goals and dreams requires a special sort of individual willing to give back, and that is what makes your kindness so incredible.”

If you have questions about making a donation or would like to discuss a major gift, feel free to contact Dan Klug, the foundation’s Executive Director, at (218) 791-9579 or Lars Dyrud, Director of Foundation Operations, at (218) 689-0069.

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UNIQUE SCHOLARSHIPS

Let’s face it, even an affordable college is still expensive. We want you to be able to make the most of your education so we have compiled a list of 50 scholarship opportunities that appeal to a broad range of students. When you think of scholarships you probably think of long essays and fierce competition but here are opportunities that break the stereotypical scholarship mold.

Some are local, some are national, and some are just unusual. They range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars yet each offers a unique opportunity to help you pay for school. Whether you are still in high school or you have been out of school for 20 years, you will find a scholarship that pertains to you and several that will, at the very least, entertain you.

The Great Sallie Mae Giveaway- Why not let the people who you normally pay your student loans to pay them for you? If you have current student loans that are being serviced by Sallie Mae then you are eligible to enter to have Sallie May pay off up to $25,000 of your student loans. Learn more about this scholarship at https://www1.salliemae.com/after_graduation/manage_your_loans/managing_account/rules.htm.

College Prowler’s $2,000 “No Essay” Scholarship- It really doesn’t get any simpler than this when it comes to scholarships. The $2000 No Essay Scholarship is open to all students and those planning on enrolling in the next 12 months, just register for a free account and see if you can be the next monthly winner at https:// collegeprowler.com/scholarship/apply.aspx.

USPAACC Bruce Lee Scholarship- The U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC) established this scholarship in honor of the legendary Bruce Lee. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to a student who possesses strong character, has per-

severed and prevailed over adversity, and will attend college in the U.S. This is worth up to $5000, hiyyyaaa! http://celebrasianconference.com/about-celebrasian/ scholarships/overview/ gives you all the inside info.

Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Awards- Are you a high school senior who is active in athletics? If so, why not write an essay of no more than 250 words about how milk has helped your academics/ athletics. 25 winners will get $7500 and a spot in a milk mustache ad. Did we mention a trip to Disney World to hang out with Mia Hamm, Tony Hawk, and Andy Roddick? You get that too. Look at sammyapplication.com to learn more.

The Jeanette Rankin Foundation Scholarship Program- This one is for women, aged 35 or older and pursuing a technical, associates, or first bachelor degree. Since 1978, The Jeanette Rankin Foundation has awarded over $1.3 million to over 600 women. Want more information? Check out this website: http://www. rankinfoundation.org/about.

American Crystal Sugar Company ScholarshipAmerican Crystal offers 47 $500 scholarships every year to graduating high school seniors who wish to pursue a college education in one of the following fields: science, agriculture, engineering, mathematics, and technology. You can find more info on American Crystal Sugar’s website.

Alerus Financial Scholarships- Alerus Financial offers three scholarship opportunities to Northland students.

The Alerus Financial Good Citizen Scholarship is awarded to two Grand Forks high school students; one from Central and one from Red River and the amounts vary. The Aspire Higher Scholarship is worth $500 and is available to any college student who writes a onepage essay about your career aspirations and provides

a letter of recommendation. The Alerus Financial Connect With the Community Scholarship is a $1000 award given to at least three students annually that write an essay on how giving back to the community benefits both the giver and receiver. These three great opportunities can be found at www2.alerusfinancial. com/alerusSecure/pdf/Scholarship/CurrentScholarship. pdf.

Chegg Free Textbooks for Freshman Scholarship ($1,000)- Chegg is giving away four $1000 scholarships so incoming college freshman can get their books for free. The best part is that all you have to do to win is register with Chegg and write 500 characters or less about what you like best about your college. Fast, simple, and lucrative are great ways to describe this opportunity. Find it at http://www.zinch.com/cheggtextbook-scholarship-rules.

Tylenol Future Care Scholarship- Do you like competition and are enrolled in a healthcare field? Here is your opportunity to compete for your chance at 40 big money scholarships. 10 $10,000 and 30 $5,000 are

given out annually to students enrolled in a healthcare field by Tylenol. There may be a lot of people who enter for this but remember that 40 people WILL win, why not you? Check it out at http://www.tylenol.com/page. jhtml?id=tylenol/news/subptyschol.inc $1,000 GPA isn’t Everything Scholarship- Do you have a solid reputation and record but a lackluster GPA? If so, this is the scholarship for you. This scholarship awards $1000 to a student who has gotten straight A’s in street smarts and doesn’t care what your report card says. Register at cappex and explain why you deserve this and you could be the next winner. $1000 I Don’t Want to Pay for College Scholarship- It really doesn’t get any easier than this, if you are going to college and would like a little extra financial help this is for you. Sign up at Cappex to be the next winner of this scholarship with the name that says it all. Here’s the link to it and many more at Cappex, http://www. cappex.com/scholarships/noPayScholarship.jsp.

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UNIQUE SCHOLARSHIPS The Patrick Kerr Skateboard Scholarship- Here’s one for the skateboarders. All you need is a 2.5 GPA and to enjoy skateboarding and write about how it has been a positive influence on your life. Special consideration will be given to those who promote skateboarding in their community. Four awards will be given annually from $1000-$5000. This is definitely worth kick flipping over.

The Discover Card Tribute Award- Here’s one for the early planning high school juniors. The Tribute Award is designed to honor the exemplary work you have done. Up to 300 $2500 scholarships are available and if you get one you are automatically registered to win one of ten $25,000 scholarships. It really pays to discover at http://www.discoverfinancial.com/community/scholarship.shtml.

Excellence in Predicting the Future Award- Do you have an uncanny ability to predict the future or at least an interest in doing economic market predictions? This might be right up your alley because it is designed for students interested in economics and market predictions. Each person receives play money to buy and sell corporate stock and do market predicting. Winners are chosen every two months by their performance in the contest. Learn more at http://www.scholarships4students.com/excellence_in_predicting_the_future_ award.htm.

The Grand Forks Foundation for Education, Inc. Scholarships- Check out their website and look at 39 different scholarships for those who have a connection to Grand Forks, especially if you went to a Grand Forks school. They have a scholarship for nearly everyone so check them all out right here, http://www.gffoundation. org/scholarships.htm.

The Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck on Prom ContestHere’s a unique one for those of you who are still in high school. The Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest challenges students to create and accessorize their prom outfits with duct tape, then wear them to prom for a chance to win scholarship cash prizes. First place is worth $5000, second is $3000, and third is $2000 per person. Not only are you benefitting but also your school receives a matching award. You are guaranteed to be the talk of prom and you might just end up with a cool story and $5000. Stick it to the competition at http://duckbrand.com/Promotions/stuck-at-prom/ FAQ.aspx#q1.

Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship- Why not get your college paid for by people who are living a similar lifestyle as you. The Vegetarian Resource Group is giving two $5000 scholarships to fellow vegetarians who have promoted the lifestyle in their school or community. Applicants will be judged on having shown compassion, courage, and a strong commitment to promoting a peaceful world through a vegetarian diet/lifestyle.

More information can be found at http://www.vrg.org/ student/scholar.htm.

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Program- Already in school at and hoping to transfer from Northland to further your education?

Here’s a great option, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship honors excellence by supporting outstanding community college students with financial need to transfer to and complete their bachelor’s degrees at the nation’s top four-year colleges and universities. 50 students will receive $30,000 annually to pay for their final years of school. This is worth taking a look at, http://www.jkcf.org/scholarships/ undergraduate-transfer-scholarships/.

The American Fire Sprinkler Association- Are you interested in fire sprinklers? Most likely not and this is the reason this scholarship exists, to create awareness of fire sprinklers and their benefits. Read a brief essay and take a ten-question multiple-choice test. This is an open-book test and you may print out the paper beforehand for reference during testing. For each question answered correctly, students will receive one (1) entry into a drawing for one of ten $2,000 scholarships. For each question answered incorrectly, you will be given one more chance at the end of the exam to answer those questions correctly. They extinguish almost every chance for failure so why not give it a shot at http:// www.afsascholarship.org.

Tall Clubs International Student Scholarships- If you find yourself ducking a lot you might have just found yourself a scholarship. The TCI Foundation has created $1000 scholarships for women over 5’10’’ and men over 6’2’’ to attend their first year of college. Write an essay about what being tall means to you and you will be heads above the competition. Learn more at http:// www.tall.org/.

I Was Born in 1995 Scholarship- Does a $1995 scholarship sound pretty helpful? Were you born in 1995?

Answer yes to both of these and you are in the running for this scholarship. Scholarshipexperts.com made this a pretty straightforward opportunity for you if you were born in 1995. Learn more at https://www.scholarshipexperts.com/applicant/showScholarshipApplication. htx?scholarshipAppId=10677.

Flavor of the Month Scholarship- What do your personality and ice cream have in common? That’s the question you have to answer in 250 words to win $1000 from scholarshipexperts.com. This is a fun opportunity for everyone to help pay for their education by talking about ice cream. Deadline is the last day of National Ice Cream Month. Scoop up some opportunity at http:// www.scholarshipexperts.com/previewScholarship. htx?scholarshipid=1003657.

Texting and Driving Awareness Scholarship- We all know texting and driving is dangerous so why not do something about it and while you’re at it enter to win a $10,000 scholarship. There are two ways to win at dosomething.org. Either send five friends texting and driving stats through the website or get a free pair of thumb socks from the site and take a picture of yourself wearing them. Hey, even if you don’t win you are doing something to help make your roads safer places so it’s a win, win. Sign up at thumbwars.org.

Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund- Are you a woman who graduated or received your GED before September 2002? If so, you probably qualify to enter for a chance to win one of 18 scholarships worth $10,000 to $30,000 from the Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund. Learn more at https://www.scholarshipamerica.org/talbotswomen/instructions.php

at http://scholarships.hispanicfund.org/applications/ subsectionID.1,pageID.206/default.asp

Denny’s Single Parent Student Scholarship- Here is a great opportunity if you are a Hispanic single parent.

Denny’s offers need-based scholarships to Hispanic single parents in amounts from $500 to $1500 every year. In addition, winners will receive a “kids eat free” coupon. If you can demonstrate financial need, this might be a great opportunity for you. Chew it over

American Legion Non-Traditional Student Scholarship- These scholarships help people who are part of The Legion Family pursue a college degree later in life or allow them to pick up where they left off when their studies were interrupted. If you’re at this place in life, this may be the right scholarship for you. $1000 is given annually in every geographic division in the country.

Apply by March 1 every year at http://www.alaforveterans.org/what_we_do/scholarships/pages/non-traditionalstudentscholarship.aspx

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I.AM SCHOLARSHIP- Music fans rejoice, singer Will.i.am has set up a scholarship for you. The i.am scholarship has partnered with Oprah’s Angel Network in 2009, Scholarship America in 2010 and College Track in 2011 to aid numerous students in fulfilling their dream of attending college and graduate prepared to better society. Check it out at http://iamangelfoundation.org/step2/scholarship/ and you might just boom, boom, pow all the way to the bank.

Northwest Minnesota Women’s Scholarship FundHere is a great local option for the lady Pioneers. The Northwest Minnesota Scholarship is for women who reside within the 12 counties of the region and are pursuing a degree at Northland or any other college in the region. The Northwest Minnesota Women’s Fund develops resources and serves as a catalyst for improving the quality of life for women and girls. Visit http:// www.nwmf.org/component-funds/community-fundwebsites/nw-mn-womens-fund.html to learn more about this scholarship for all of you “locals”.

Through the Looking Glass Scholarships for Students with Parents with Disabilities- These scholarships are designed specifically for students who have parents with disabilities. A total of 15 $1000 scholarships will be given out in the fall. Five of the 15 scholarships will consider extreme financial need, and all will select based on academics, community service, a letter of recommendation, and an essay describing the experience of growing up with a parent with a disability. This one isn’t for everyone but if you know someone who fits the criteria, it might be a great chance to help pay for their schooling. Learn more at www.lookingglass.org.

Best Buy Scholarship- Here’s one for the future Pioneers that are still in high school. Best buy offers $1000 scholarships to students in grades 9-12. Here is the breakdown: Grade 9: 25, Grade 10: 42, Grade 11: 115, Grade 12: 924. That is a lot of scholarship opportunities, especially if you start applying when you are a freshman. Here’s the link: http://www.bestbuy-communityrelations.com/scholarship.htm Frandsen Bank and Trust Endowed Scholarship-Here

is a Northland specific scholarship for students who grew up in the Grand Forks area. One award of $500 will be given to a full or part-time student in a business related field at Northland. Learn more at http://www. nctcfoundation.com/NCTC_Foundation/Scholarships. html.

Zinch Weekly Three-Sentence Essay Scholarship – Here is one for everyone that is about as easy as it gets.

It’s open to all U.S. high school and college students.

Every week, you will get a prompt and you get three sentences or 280 characters to answer the prompt and that’s all you have to do to win. If your answer is selected you are the weekly $1000 scholarship winner. Enter as many weeks as you want at http://www.zinch.com/ scholarships/weekly-three-sentence-essay-scholarship.

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship- This one is pretty unique! Scholarshipexperts.com offer $1000 annually to anyone over 13 years old who plans to attend college. Here’s the fun part, submit an online short written response (250 words or less) for the topic: Imagine that your high school/college has been overrun with Zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead.

Use your brain to flesh out a plan to avoid the Zombies, including where you would hide and the top 5 things you would bring with you to stay alive at your school.

The best answer wins the scholarship. Get creative at scholarshipexperts.com.

MN GLBT Education Fund Scholarship- The MN GLBT Education Fund offers 10 scholarships to Minnesota residents who meet their qualifications. The purpose of these awards is to recognize outstanding GLBT students and activists in Minnesota. Learn more about these scholarships or check out their links to other GLBT scholarships at http://scc.net/~t-bonham/ EDFUND.HTM. Horatio Alger Military Veterans Scholarship- The Horatio Alger Minnesota Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students in Minnesota who have exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity and who aspire to pursue higher

education. If you have a minimum GPA of over 2.0 and lived in the metro counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, or Washington you are eligible for one of 10 $5000 scholarships. This is one for our students who plan to transfer to receive your bachelor’s degree. Don’t worry; you may start at a two-year school. Here’s where to learn more about it: https:// www.horatioalger.org/scholarships/program_minnesota.cfm.

Lowell & Marge Swenson Endowment ScholarshipHere is another Northland specific scholarship with preference given to NW MN residents on the Thief River Falls campus. This scholarship awards renewable awards of $500 to $1000 for up to four contiguous semesters at Northland. Check your eligibility at http:// www.nctcfoundation.com/NCTC_Foundation/Scholarships.html.

American Welding Society Scholarship- The American Welding Society offers over 30 scholarships to students that are in a welding program. The scholarships all have different qualifications but odds are pretty good you will qualify to try for a few of them. These somewhat overlooked opportunities can be found at http:// www.aws.org/foundation/national_scholarships.html.

The Home Depot Trade Scholarship Program- Are you in or planning to go into the building or construction trades at Northland? If so, The Home Depot grants 500 $1000 scholarships to students in these programs nationwide for tuition, supplies and tools. Here’s the kicker, they also offer a matching grant to your school for $1000 if you get selected. Are you set to graduate in the next 12 months? If you are you could get an additional $500 to offset your educational costs. The Home Depot knows you are their future business so why not take advantage of their generosity at http://corporate. homedepot.com/wps/portal/proscholarship.

OP Loftbed $500 Scholarship Award- The OP Loftbed $500 Scholarship Award is awarded by the OP Loftbed Company to a student whom the judges feel provided the most interesting answers to a set of questions.

Unlike many other scholarships, they don’t discrimi-

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nate based on your GPA, writing skill, involvement in community or service organizations, or other criteria to which many students just don’t measure up. They don’t ask the traditional scholarship type questions because they want the applicants and the judges to have fun.

They want to make you think. They want to make you evaluate yourself. They want to see how creative you are. The questions are interesting and the answers are short, so this will be a fun scholarship to apply for. Several awards of $500 per year are awarded at http://www. oploftbed.com/scholarship/scholarshipapp2.php.

Wholesale Halloween Costumes Scholarship- Here is another one for those of you who are feeling creative.

To win this scholarship all you have to do is create a fictional Halloween monster and explain what he is like in 300 words or less. $1000 scholarship is up for grabs for the chosen monster. Be creative at http://www. wholesalehalloweencostumes.com/popular-costumes/ scholarships.jsp.

Dr Pepper Million Dollar Tuition Giveaway Promotion and Contest- Dr Pepper is sponsoring a nationwide promotion for the 2012 college football season in which they will give away $1,000,000 in tuition assistance. To enter the promotion, entrants must have access to the Internet and the capability to upload a short video. The promotion is open to anyone over the age of 18. Entrants submit a one-minute video explaining how they would make an impact in their life, their community, or the world if they won free tuition from Dr Pepper. Throughout the football season, 15 people will be awarded $2,300 each in tuition assistance from Dr Pepper. Dr Pepper will also select an additional 10 grand prizewinners who will be invited to attend with one guest one of five end-of-season football games to compete in a contest at halftime. Selection of these grand prizewinners will be limited to students under the age of 25. The students will be given a chance to throw for $100,000 in tuition during the halftime of the game. The winner will walk-away with $100,000 in tuition and the runner-up will receive $23,000. It’s a hail mary but why shouldn’t it be you that wins at www. drpepper.com.

UNIQUE SCHOLARSHIPS

UNIQUE SCHOLARSHIPS Great Lakes National Scholarship- The Great Lakes National Scholarship Program is offering $2,500 scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students from across the country. They must plan to enroll in a fulltime STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) field of study. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required along with demonstrated financial need. Instead of paying them, why not let them pay you at scholarshipamerica.org/greatlakes.

State Farm Good Neighbor Scholarship ProgramThe State Farm Foundation has established a scholarship program as part of ongoing efforts to address and raise awareness of the nation’s drop-out crisis – a student drops out of high school every 26 seconds.

The State Farm Good Neighbor Scholarship Program was established to provide financial assistance to high school seniors who plan to attend college but may not be able to meet the expenses of a higher education without such aid and often do not qualify for other scholarships. Applicants must be high school seniors with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to 3.2 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate financial need. Find more information at www.scholarshipamerica.org/statefarmgoodneighborscholarship.

National Society of Accountants Scholarship- This is a scholarship that really will add up to our accountant majors. The National Society of Accountants Scholarship Program, sponsored by the National Society of Accountants Scholarship Foundation, is available to United States or Canadian citizens who are college undergraduates majoring in accounting, with a B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better grade point average, enrolled parttime or full-time in an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States. In order to qualify you need to already be enrolled in an accounting program. Scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial need. Find out more at http://www.nsacct.

org/.

Buick Achievers Scholarship- If you like the idea of competing to win a prestigious scholarship here is a great opportunity. These scholarships are designed to help students who are leaders in their classroom and community, but may not have the financial means to attend college. The program awards 100 renewable $25,000 per year scholarships and 1000 one-time $2000 scholarships. The scholarship is available to high school seniors or college undergraduate students who plan to major in Engineering/Technology or Design/Business related programs. There will be a lot of competition for these scholarships but don’t let that deter you from trying. Take the first step at http://www.buickachievers. com/.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program- Here is a great opportunity that was funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to provide outstanding African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students with an opportunity to complete an undergraduate college education in any discipline area of interest.

Every year the foundation selects 1000 students to receive a good-through-graduation scholarship at the institution of their choice. This one can be a real life changer, find out more at http://www.gmsp.org/.

Osher Reentry Scholarship Program- Are you an older than average student who experienced an interruption in your education and now want to resume your education? This is just the one for you. The scholarship is intended to benefit students between 25 and 50 years old. You must have a five-year gap in your education to be qualified for a $5000 scholarship from the Bernard Osher Foundation. Part-time or full-time students are welcome as long as you can show promise to complete a degree, show financial need, and demonstrate academic achievement. Osherfoundation.org has the information for you.

NCTC Foundation scholarship applications can be found at nctcfoundation.com

Dr. Russell O. and Inez Sather Scholarship- Here is a great opportunity if you fit into the tight criteria, but it is only for Northland students so you have a great chance! Two scholarships will be awarded annually to individuals pursuing Practical Nursing with the Practical Nursing Program of the Northland Community and Technical College, East Grand Forks campus, formerly known as the Agassiz Valley School of Practical Nursing. Priority will be given to an applicant with established residency within one of the Minnesota counties of Polk, Red Lake, Marshall, Mahnomen, Clearwater, Pennington and Norman. Northland was ranked third in the nation in practical nursing degrees awarded. Applications are available from Daphne Sobolik by calling 701-229-3220, 218-779-3680 or E-mail Daphne at: rdsobolik@polarcomm.com.

Hartz Foundation Scholarship- Given only to Northland students, the Hartz Foundation Scholarship has multiple awards of $500 for full-time students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Get yourself a recommendation from your advisor or counselor and fill out the application at http://www.nctcfoundation.com/NCTC_Foundation/Scholarships.html.

The Jack Hangsleben Endowed Scholarship- This scholarship is only for Northland Farm Operations & Management students. The scholarship annually awards $450 to two students. This is designed to help individuals who share a love of the land. You can find the application materials at http://www.nctcfoundation.com/ NCTC_Foundation/Scholarships.html.

So there you have it, 50 unique scholarships that you might qualify for to help make school more affordable. If they don’t pertain to you perhaps they might be good for a friend or family member. Remember that these scholarships might change from year to year but a quick search will give you all the current information. Take a chance and apply for some of these and who knows what might happen.

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UNPLUGG WITH RON WES

A new studio for Pioneer 90.1 at Northland Community and Technical College’s East Grand Fo summer. The independent public radio station’s headquarters will remain in Thief River Falls a station first went on the air 40 years ago, but the remote studio in East Grand Forks has opened from students, staff, and community members on Northland’s East Grand Forks Campus.

Plans are for the station’s morning program hosted by station manager Mark Johnson to be bro Falls, with the afternoon program originating from East Grand Forks with host Ron West. Wes Thunder” can be heard Monday through Friday from 2pm until 6pm. The rest of the program student hosts from both campuses, volunteer-hosted programs, and syndicated programming.

Pioneer 90.1 recently added HD Digital multicasting that allows it to broadcast two additional that can be picked up by a digital receiver and online. The HD-2 channel, “Northern Air,” carr Minnesota music and programming featuring Minnesota culture. Pioneer 90.1 HD-3 is a blend through the 70s.

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oadcast from Thief River st’s program “Northern schedule is made up of .

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HEALTHY & SECURE

A GLIMPSE INTO NORTHLAND NURSING. Everyday more and more nurses are reaching retirement age in Minnesota and as they retire, the need for skilled nurses increases dramatically. Well-qualified nurses are in high demand throughout the state but nowhere is this more evident than in northwest Minnesota. The regional employment outlook is calling for over a 20 percent increase of nurses between 2009 and 2019. With the increasing nursing shortage looming in the next ten years, employers are desperately searching for workers to fill their ranks.

Northland Community & Technical College is at the forefront of producing highly employable nurses.

“Nurses comprise the largest singe component of hospital staff, are the primary providers of hospital patient care, and deliver most of the nation’s long-term care,” mentioned instructor Diane Scott.

Northland offers several different nursing education programs from practical to registered nursing. “Northland offers mobility and portability,” said instructor Kari Koenig.

“Students can step out and work as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for awhile before continuing on to the Associates Degree (AD) program. Or, they can articulate directly into the Registered Nursing (RN) program. The Practical Nursing (PN) program offers distance education, and the AD program offers block scheduling, making it easier to adapt their education schedules to their work schedules. Both programs also offer parttime and fulltime options,” she added.

Classes focus on individualized education and hands-on training. Students can expect an 11 to 1 student to faculty ratio. These small class sizes are vital as they allow students to have open discussions with their instructors and peers. “Northland’s program does an excellent job to help nurses learn to combine knowledge with practice,” stated a Northland graduate. Caring faculty who are seasoned and experienced that come from diverse backgrounds help students immerse themselves in learning.

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Students combine lecture and lab in a way that allows for them to practice what they are taught. Students will learn to make judgments in practice, substantiated with evidence, that integrate nursing science in the provision of safe, quality care.

Practical application is crucial when preparing for a job in the nursing field and Northland’s instructors are there to make sure you are on the right track. Northland’s nursing programs focus on quality and safety with the student in mind.

“I can’t say thanks enough. All my instructors helped me obtain what I thought was unobtainable at times. I couldn’t have done it without them,” added another graduate.

Students can expect to be challenged in their education but faculty strives to prepare you for the real life situations that occur on the job. Simulated environments help the students to gain confidence in their abilities thanks to state-of-the-art labs and equipment.

Northland nursing students take two periods of clinicals that are designed for students to apply the skills they have learned in a medical setting under the direction of a medical professional. Each clinical course is an application of the nursing process, documentation, and conceptual and foundational skills along with the role of the practical nurse in a variety of clinical settings with selected clients. The course incorporates health theories as related to the needs of the clients in the role of prevention, promotion, and restoration. “We welcome the students to gain experience and knowledge completing their clinicals in our facility,” said Sanford CEO Christine Harff. There are at least five sites located near the campuses that students take their clinicals at.

“Sanford Medical Center in Thief River Falls is dependent on having skilled nurses care for our patients in the many areas of service we offer. Northland Community & Technical College has been a partner in providing our community with the opportunity to gain the needed skills for nurses,” added Harff. It is no wonder why Northland’s nursing program has a 100 percent placement rate. “Northland doesn’t turn away qualified students,” concluded Scott.

Northland’s nursing programs are ripe with opportunity for people of all walks of life.

According to indeed.com, the average RN salary in Minnesota is $73,000. Combine this with the nursing shortage that is projected to increase in the next five to 10 years, and you have a recipe for a vibrant and “healthy” career that starts at Northland.

NORTHLAND NURSING

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FITNESS CENTER ADDED Northland is pleased to announce the addition of the new fitness center at the East Grand Forks campus. The East Grand Forks Student Senate successfully lobbied for the creation of the new facility. The new facility’s Grand Opening occurred on Wednesday, Sept. 26. The Grand Opening event featured a variety of activities for students and staff throughout the day.

The new fitness center is located in room 305. It has a variety of equipment including: treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, free weights, speed and heavy training bags, dumbbells, and several “multi-gym” stations. There also is an area that will be used for stretching and agility training. Three flat screen TV monitors adorn the walls in front of the treadmills.

The fitness center’s hours of operation are 7am to 5 pm Monday through Friday. It is open to all current students, faculty, and staff at no additional cost. As well as on-site surveillance, a student worker will be monitoring the facilities during hours of operation.

NORTHLAND FITNESS

FOCUS ON FACULTY

UNMANNED WITH JON BECK When you start a program that is the first of it’s kind in the nation, a lot of questions come up. What will the curriculum be based upon? What is needed to properly train students? What will help students succeed in the program? The list goes on and on. One question of utmost importance is who is going to teach something that has never been taught in an educational setting? Enter Jon Beck, UAS Department Program Manager and instructor of Northland’s new Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Maintenance Training program.

Beck was born in Thief River Falls, Minn. and graduated from high school from Sartell, Minn. After high school Jon went on to get his degree from St. Cloud State University in Aviation Maintenance. He then took an active role in the military that led to his experience with UAS.

With a nine year military background Jon has acquired a lot of knowledge on the subject at hand. In 2004, he made a transition to focus on Unmanned Aerial Systems. He has devoted a lot of time to UAS and has a long list of accomplishments in the sector.

He was part of the Shadow program and was in the first group of instructors for the Gray Eagle project.

He has three previous years of UAS military training at Fort Huachuca, which is the headquarters for UAV training for the U.S. Army.

“My favorite part of the job is UAS exploration. The military was very structured but here I can explore different technologies, how UAS is developing, and the progression of the future of UAS,” said Beck.

Beck is the instructor of three UAS classes along with balancing several additional projects for Northland. He teaches a broad scope of the UAS field including UAS purpose, technology, legislation, and UAS electronics.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems are aircraft that can function without the presence of a human flight staff onboard. The UAS industry is experiencing significant growth, calling for more maintenance techni-

cians to obtain their UAS certification. The UAS certificate will concentrate on the maintenance and repair of the components of unmanned aerial systems to include: unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ground control stations (GCSs), understanding the function of data links or the communication/guidance system between vehicle and satellites (line of sight), and a basic understanding of computer networks and their functionality within UAS. Courses are designed to create a skilled UAS Maintenance Technician with a broad understanding of commonly used UAS platforms at the functional level.

at the same time offers the ability to lead the nation in an area that is predicted to grow exponentially in upcoming years. Students taking the program at Northland under Jon’s guidance will surely be highly sought after by big name companies investing heavily in the unmanned sector. “It is a great opportunity to be part of the first Unmanned Aerial Systems Maintenance Training program,” concluded Beck.

Students in his class actually build a UAS called an Arducopter from the ground up using all of the latest UAS related technology to help them understand the components and technology they will be working on when they enter the workforce. “The Arducopter implements all of the electronic circuits and information on a small UAS that is scaled similar to a larger UAS. It really gives the student hands-on experience with UAS,” added Beck.

The new UAS program at Northland is the first of it’s kind in the nation. This presents challenges but

Jon Beck, UAS Program Manager

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Anna Shuck Surgical Technology- ‘06

When students at Northland Community and Technical College walk into the Surgical Technology classrooms, they may forget they are at a college and not a hospital. Working side-by-side professionals of industry at the Mayo clinic in Rochester allows Northland students in the Surgical Technology program the ability to implement what they have learned in real life situations with the best equipment.

Northland Community and Technical College’s Surgical Technology program provides students innovative learning techniques, access to cutting edge technology in labs, and the ability to work side by side with professionals at the Mayo Clinic.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Northland alum Anna Shuck attributes much of her success to the realistic training methods taught in the Surgical Technology program. Shuck graduated from the Surgical Technology program in 2006 and easily transitioned to the workforce. She was offered a job at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona shortly after her first job interview. She credits her accomplishments in the field to the state-of-the-art education and training she received from Northland’s Surgical Technology program.

The Surgical Technology program prepares students to assist the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and professional registered nurse as an integral member of the direct patient care team before, during, and after surgical intervention. “The training is intense but gives you real life perspective of what will happen in the workforce,” said Shuck.

The two-year program gives students a seamless blend of lecture and hands-on training with cutting edge technology. “The training facility is amazing, it is so close to the real thing. This really helped because when I entered my job it looked just like where we trained. I knew what I was doing because of it,” mentioned Shuck.

Shuck, who is originally from Roseau, Minn., said her first passion is animals but an allergy prohibited her from finishing school in a Vet Tech program. After this, Shuck went to a career fair at Northland and talked to Ruth Letexier, the instructor for the Surg Tech program, and decided she would give Surgical Technology a try. The program was immediately a good fit for Shuck. She credits her instructors and classmates with her success. “The program was set up really well and the small class sizes allowed for better interaction with the instructors and fellow students,” stressed Shuck. “We (the students) could call each other anytime for help and if we didn’t know the instructors were always willing to help. We could call them anytime for assistance, it wasn’t just during class,” pointed out Shuck.

A crucial part of the Surgical Technology program is the clinical portion. During clinicals a student gains invaluable work experience at multiple sites for a seven-month period. Shuck took her clinicals at Mayo Clinic in Rochester and at a local hospital in Grand Forks. “The college arranged everything for us, it was so beneficial.” “After working in those places I was far more prepared than students from other schools; I had such an advantage when applying for a job after graduation,” said Shuck.

Since graduating from Northland in 2006, Shuck has found her job and her life in Arizona to be very fulfilling. Besides working at the esteemed Mayo Clinic, Shuck is involved in animal rescue. “I can’t be around cats but I find dogs and then locate homes for them. I have adopted seven miniature pinschers so far,” concluded Shuck. Shuck is a great example of how students at Northland can adapt and find success anywhere they choose to take their education.

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Take the next step: One of the best ways to find out if a college is for you is to schedule a campus visit. We invite prospective students, their parents and friends to visit us at Northland.

Schedule your visit today by visiting

thinknorthland.com