Photo (L-R): Esther Hernandez (Workforce Development & Continuing Education Coordinator); Dr. Laurie Sharp (President); Shawn Fonville (Vice President for Career and Technical Education and Continuing Education); Mischa Norris (Director of Workforce Development & Continuing Education); Tommy Roach (Lead CDL Instructor);
and Janie Guerrero (Opportunity Center Secretary).
Western Texas College proudly announces that its in-town training and education hub, known as "College off the Square," has been officially renamed the Western Texas College Opportunity Center.
“We are very excited to return to the name that truly reflects what we offer here," said Mischa Norris, the Western Texas College Director of Workforce Development and Continuing Education.
"Every day, people walk through these doors looking for new opportunities," she noted. "Whether it’s a local truck driver needing a new endorsement to help support their family, or a neighbor joining us for a Tuesday night art class, this building is a vital resource for the community.”
The name change marks a full-circle moment for Western Texas College (WTC). Purchased during the tenure of beloved former President Dr. Mike Dreith, college leadership originally envisioned the building as an “Opportunity Center,” a place where Scurry County residents could find what they needed to advance their careers and grow creatively. By returning to this name, WTC honors Dr. Dreith’s legacy and original goal: affordable, accessible, convenient training and classes for the entire community.
"The leadership team felt the original name truly matched the activities happening inside the walls," said President Dr. Laurie Sharp.
"Western Texas College is about helping our friends and neighbors find their path, whether that’s a new career credential or a creative outlet. By aligning the name with that goal, we are making it clear that if you are looking to grow, you belong here."
The WTC Opportunity Center continues to offer a wide array of services, including:
Workforce & Safety: CDL Training & endorsements, Hazmat, ServSafe, and
CPR/First Aid.Business & Tech: Microsoft Excel, Adobe Photoshop, and Leadership Workshops.
Creative Arts: Pottery, Acrylics, Drawing, and Photography.
Pathways to Work and College: GED and ESL classes.
"We are as responsive as possible to the needs of our local employers and our residents," said Shawn Fonville, Vice President for Career and Technical Education and Continuing Education.
"The WTC Opportunity Center allows us to offer fast, flexible, and high-quality training that keeps our workforce competitive. WTC is fully invested in the futures of our residents."
“Community members and business owners can even request specialized training or a class,” added Norris, “and we will work with them to make it happen. We also check to see if there are grant funds to underwrite workforce training.”
“To get started, it’s as easy as giving us a call.”
For more information on upcoming workforce trainings, classes and services, please visit wtc.edu/opportunitycenter or call 325-574-6581.