Equity From Start to Finish

Mission

The Equity From Start to Finish program is designed to support the underrepresented population of African American male students in postsecondary education. Through targeted recruitment efforts, the program promotes equity and access in postsecondary opportunities, provides ongoing support for students to ensure they are retained and graduate, and expands program offerings that lead to workforce opportunities in high demand growing industries such as Industrial Systems Technology, Machine Tool Technology, and Welding and Joining Technology.

Purpose

Increase African American male students’ recruitment into postsecondary education.

Increase African American male participation in high demand growing programs.

Increase retention and completion rates for African American males through the improvement of student success resources and programs designed to improve academic success.

Services

We can assist you with the following:

  • Guided Admission Support
  • Assigned Career & Academic Planning Coach
  • Tutoring & Mentoring Services
  • Campus Resource Referrals
  • Outreach Services
  • Financial Aid Assistance
  • Program Equipment
  • Graduation Coaching

Participating Programs of Study

Welding and Joining Technology

Program Description:

The NCCER Welding and Joining Technician diploma prepares students for careers in the welding industry. Program learning opportunities develop academic, technical, and professional knowledge and skills required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. Program graduates receive a Welding Technology diploma, have qualifications of a welding technician, and are prepared to take qualification tests required by industry. The program emphasizes welding theory and practical application necessary for successful employment.

Career Options: Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers – Estimated Median Annual Salary $46,813

Industrial Systems Technology & Mechatronics

Program Description:

The Industrial Systems Technology diploma program is designed for the student who wishes to prepare for a career as an Industrial Systems technician/electrician. The program provides learning opportunities that introduce, develop, and reinforce academic and technical knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. Additionally, the program provides opportunities to retrain or upgrade present knowledge and skills. The diploma program teaches skills in Industrial Systems Technology providing background skills in several areas of industrial maintenance including electronics, industrial wiring, motors, controls, PLCs, instrumentation, fluid power, mechanical, pumps and piping, and computers. Graduates of the program receive an Industrial Systems technology diploma that qualifies them for employment as industrial electricians or industrial systems technicians.

Career Options: Industrial Systems Technician/Electrician, Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians, and Robotics Technicians. – Estimated Median Annual Salary $57,680

Machine Tool Technology

Program Description:

The Precision Machining and Manufacturing diploma program is a sequence of courses that prepares students for careers in the machine tool technology field. Learning opportunities develop academic, technical, and professional knowledge and skills required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. The program emphasizes a combination of machine tool theory and practical applications necessary for successful employment. Program graduates receive a Precision Machining and Manufacturing diploma and have the qualifications of a machine tool technician.

Career Options: Industrial/Mechanical Maintenance Technicians, Machinists, and Millwrights – Estimated Median Annual Salary $47,381

 


Testimonials

Equity was a confidence booster from the beginning, the staff were helpful in many ways. They keep up with the credits you need to finish the journey as well as help with job placement in your career field. Equity gave me a sense of belonging and made me feel proud, a great feeling to know that you have help on campus. Knowing that there is a program here to help African American males finish the marathon of success is encouraging, motivating, and phenomenal. The program always has fun and inspirational activities for me to attend. Mrs. Dugger, the program Director is always there with a listening ear and laughter whenever needed, she is great! -Courtney Green '24, Machine Tool Technology
Equity From Start to Finish has had a major impact on my life. It opened doors and opportunities I could’ve never imagined. Equity builds connections with the students that provides you with the comfort of knowing you will always be taken care of. I always mention the amount of care and attention that goes out to every student. The Equity program doesn’t allow you feel like just a drop in the pond. There is always a sense of community and you will never be left behind. -McKinley Thompson, Welding and Joining Technology
Equity from Start to Finish has made great strides since its launch. I’ve seen firsthand how this initiative has brought an increased sense of belonging and school pride to black males in the SCTC community by way of fellowship, mentorship, and support. I recently had the pleasure of meeting two of the members of this initiative. These young men were enthusiastically spreading the word about the positive impact Equity from Start to Finish has had on their academic journey and they were very eager to recruit other “brothers” into the program. I look forward to the continued growth of this initiative that empowers black male students to take ownership of their experience at SCTC. -Annita White, Director of Career Placement and Academic Advisement
The Equity from Start to Finish initiative provides an exciting avenue for Southern Crescent Technical College to expand access to postsecondary education options.  By growing our African American male enrollment and providing the appropriate academic and student support services necessary to retain and graduate African American males we are exhibiting our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  It is also a great example of Southern Crescent Technical College’s commitment to fueling the workforce talent pipeline in our region. - Xenia Johns, Vice President of Student Affairs

Contact

Deidra Dugger
Mrs. Deidra Dugger
Director of Equity From Start to Finish
Student Affairs
770-412-5739
678-972-9413
deidra.dugger@sctech.edu