What started with a single TCC class grew into a cyber-security career for Air Force veteran

One-third of TCC’s students are military-related. This week we highlight some of them in honor of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Air Force veteran Kendall Shook spent her career serving her country and community.

She started as a Russian cryptologic linguist in the service and later worked as an emergency dispatcher for the Department of Defense and City of Chesapeake, where she was also on the SWAT team.

Today, she is a cyber security specialist with an industry credential who protects data and computer networks.

Shook originally came to Tidewater Community College to take one computer class.

That sparked her interest in one of the most in-demand fields in the nation given the relentless security breaches that continue to threaten data.

“Once I came here, I decided to keep going and it’s all because of Professor Guess’ passion for cyber and the way he engages with his students,” Shook said.

Taking online classes at TCC enabled Shook to continue working full time while pursuing her degree.

“My professors are standouts in the field,” Shook said. “I really enjoyed the mix of ages and backgrounds of my classmates. It pushed all of us to view things from different perspectives.”

Shook found her current career opportunity at a “Lunch and Learn” event held on the Chesapeake Campus. Today, she is employed at a busy network operation center, using her TCC degree and CompTIA Security+ certification.

Shook worked with TCC’s Center for Military and Veterans Education (CMVE) to use her GI Bill benefits to pay her tuition. She learned about the CMVE while visiting a TCC transfer event with her son, Ethan, who was also studying cyber security at the college.

After earning an Associate of Applied Science in Cyber Security, the Chesapeake native transferred to Old Dominion University to complete a bachelor’s in cyber security.

“I can tell you TCC was a good value and prepared me for work in the field,” Shook said. “I’m also just as confident in my studies at Old Dominion as those who started at the university.”

Shook plans a future as a malware analyst or reverse computer engineer. She encourages her classmates to take those entry level help desk positions, as they often lead to other possibilities in the field.

“It’s all about networking and getting involved in the industry as soon as possible,” she said. “Your TCC degree is proof to everyone of what you are capable of learning. And it all starts with a single class!”

For special support services for military-related students, visit the CMVE or call 757-822-7645. You can also email military@tcc.edu

Army veteran continues to serve his country thanks to TCC grant

One-third of TCC’s students are military-related. This week we highlight some of them in honor of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

When George Brockman talks about running for president one day, it’s hard not to take him seriously.

The Army veteran worked as a nuclear engineer and studied business in Germany. He worked for Northrop Grumman, and he’s studying for both the LSAT and MCAT at the same time. The cabin of his tractor-trailer provides ample space and quiet for that. Because in addition to all of that, Brockman is an operator/owner of his own trucking company.

Trucker George Brockman studies for the LSAT in the cabin of his truck.

He completed an associate degree in truck driving and paid no tuition thanks to earning a scholarship specifically for military-related students looking to transition to a trucking career. Tidewater Community College’s Center for Military and Veterans Education received a sixth consecutive federal grant this fall to help train military veterans and their spouses for careers in trucking.

Brockman chose the trucking path for the same reason he opted to join the military after graduating from Western Branch High in 1993.

“I wanted to serve my country.”

He credits truckers for keeping America moving, noting the critical role of delivering freight during the COVID-19 pandemic. When his sister, a nurse, lamented the lack of tissue and sanitizer at the hospital last spring, Brockman wanted to find a meaningful way to contribute.

“It’s the pandemic that got me into this truck,” he says, pointing to his rig parked at TCC’s Suffolk location, where students complete instruction. “If I’m moving toilet paper and hand sanitizer, I’m helping people.”

Brockman, 45, credits TCC’s trucking program for its thoroughness. “They taught me intensely,” he says. “It’s more than driving; you learn how to make safety checks. Once you learn at TCC, you can do anything. It’s remarkable — from here, go anywhere.”

Brockman drives up to 70 hours a week and subcontracts his trucks from Advance Transportation Systems. He’s got the cabin set up for him to sleep comfortably and study at night for the LSAT. He doesn’t want to practice law, but he regards himself as a scholar. He’s completed some law course and wants to earn a juris doctor degree purely for the knowledge. Brockman intends to pursue medical school at the University of Virginia after that.

It’s unorthodox, but so is he. He dresses down and carries himself in an unassuming way.

He recommends truck driving to transitioning military members because of the service aspect and the discipline required to be successful at it.

Camaraderie, a natural part of the military mindset, also applies to trucking. Brockman gained another family from his new career. Truckers don’t hesitate to help each other on the road, he said. One anonymous trucker put a $100 bill in his hand a few months ago when he thought Brockman looked as if he needed some help.

“It’s a family inside of a family,” Brockman said. “All nationalities, all origins, male or female; there’s no discrimination. You meet a lot of great people on the road.”

Brockman’s already started his own company, and even after he becomes a doctor one day, he won’t give up trucking completely. “It’s part of who I am, part of my legacy,” he says. “If you’re in the military, it’s because you want to help your fellow citizens. This is another way to do that.”

For special support services for military-related students, visit the CMVE or call 757-822-7645. You can also email military@tcc.edu.

Live! Inside the TCC greenhouse and Horticulture lab

In this series, we provide a closer look at hands-on learning during COVID-19.

While COVID-19 means online learning for most Tidewater Community College students, many are in the classroom for hands-on training. In fact, more than 400 sections of classes in interior design, automotive, health professions, welding, veterinary technology, culinary arts, visual arts, electronics technology and other programs have on-campus components.

Take a look inside a Horticulture program lab

Chesapeake Campus is home to the college’s Horticulture program and a new state-of-the-art greenhouse. When you enter the open-air space, your senses savor the sights and smells of hundreds of flowers and ornamental plants.

The new greenhouse at TCC’s Chesapeake Campus.

During the Greenhouse Crop Production lab, students learn to cultivate flowering and ornamental plants for gardens and floristry. They check soil levels, water, prune and master growing techniques. The course covers commercial best practices for growing flowering crops and considers production requirements, environmental control and management.

Emily Gonzales practices the technique.
Professor Andrea Tomlin with students..

During this lab, students also practiced the pour-through technique, a tool used to determine if the crops are thriving. Students pour water through the plants and then collect the water residue. From there, they test the sample to measure the pH and electrical conductivity of the plants.

Bryce Pate preparing plants for
delivery to the Community Feed at TCC.

In addition, students prepared fall pansies for delivery to a community event for the Community Feed at TCC, a program that provides meals, fresh foods and hygiene items for students in need. The Community Feed is a partnership program among TCC, the Foodbank and TowneBank.

Student voices

“I’d like to own my own nursery, and these propagation skills are a must. There’s no question that we have to complete these classes to get jobs in this field.” – Bryce Pate

“I’m learning the skills I need to be head grower in a greenhouse. The on-campus learning and greenhouse experience is invaluable.” – Derrick Broadous

“This material is challenging to learn online. You get so much more out of the labs by working in the greenhouse. And it’s nice to go somewhere during the pandemic!” – Emily Gonzales

About the instructor

Zach Nissen with the Foodbank and professor Tomlin. — Zach Nissen with the Foodbank and Professor Tomlin

Professor Andrea Tomlin, the Horticulture department head, has more than 20 years of experience in the field with an emphasis in greenhouse operations and production, landscape design and maintenance. She joined TCC in 2016, after serving as the Virginia Cooperative Horticulture Extension Agent with the City of Norfolk. She also held teaching positions with Virginia Beach and Chesapeake public schools.

The TCC alumna earned her Associate of Applied Science in Horticulture. Tomlin continued at Virginia Tech where she earned a bachelor’s in horticulture education and therapy and master’s in vocational and technical education, with a concentration in agricultural education.

Good to know

The horticulture program at TCC can help you grow your passion into a career. Horticulture requires an understanding of science and business, and TCC’s program emphasizes both. The curriculum provides a range of instruction from growing plants to designing and managing landscapes.

Students working with flowers — Students grew a variety of pansies including red violas, matrix purple, as well as matrix white, yellow and red.

More information

Learn about TCC’s Horticulture degree and certificate programs here or contact Professor Tomlin at atomlin@tcc.edu or enroll@tcc.edu.

TCC offering scholarships to Virginians whose employment is impacted by COVID-19 pandemic

Tidewater Community College will provide scholarships to eligible Virginians whose employment has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to pursue workforce training in a high-demand field.

The Re-Employing Virginians (REV) initiative, announced by Gov. Ralph Northam on Friday, will allocate $27 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act dollars in five essential industries — health care, information technology, skilled trades, public safety and early childhood education.

The initiative will provide one-time REV scholarships of $3,000 to register in a qualifying full-time workforce program and $1,500 to register part-time or in a short-term, noncredit training program.

Interested individuals should email REV@tcc.edu for information on how to apply before the Dec. 14, 2020 enrollment deadline. Additional details can be found here.

“Virginians who have been furloughed, had hours reduced, or lost a job because of the pandemic are struggling and wondering what the future holds,” Northam said. “Investing in programs that help people develop skills in high-demand fields is a win for workers, employers and our economy. As we focus on recovering from the impacts of the global pandemic, the new REV initiative will give Virginians the resources they need to get back on their feet and help ensure that our Commonwealth emerges from this public health crisis even stronger than we were before.”

The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) and Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads Local Workforce Development Areas will administer the CARES Act funding for the REV initiative, with $27 million allocated to VCCS for statewide programs and $3 million for the two workforce areas. Together Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia have experienced nearly 50% of all the initial and continuing unemployment claims.

“TCC is grateful for the opportunity to provide educational funding to the citizens of Hampton Roads,” said Tamara Williams, interim vice president of TCC’s Center for Workforce Solutions. “Our area is still seeing high numbers of unemployment and underemployment, and the situation is exacerbated for women and people of color. The college will award over $3 million in scholarship funds in high demand career areas, bridging the gap between education and industry.”

“If you have lost your job, or seen a reduction in your hours and paycheck, Virginia’s community colleges want to help you,” said VCCS Chancellor Glenn DuBois. “The REV initiative offers you another way into the short-term credential and degree programs that prepare you for a high-demand career. These opportunities will be more affordable than ever before thanks to these grants, and we look forward to helping individuals and families who want to move forward, beyond the unexpected challenges posed by the pandemic.”

TCC to hold mini-mester session after Thanksgiving

Tidewater Community College will hold a mini-mester session or a “miniature semester” that will allow students to earn college credits at an accelerated pace between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The mini-mester session is from Nov. 30 – Dec. 18.

During that time, the college will offer three-week three-credit courses exclusively online in a variety of subjects, including art, communications, economics, English, history, math, political science and psychology.

Each course will use low- to no-cost digital resources, so no pricey textbooks are needed.

The mini-mester session is designed for:

Four-year college students that attend another college or university in Virginia. Visiting students can complete one or more of the classes at TCC in just three weeks and transfer it back to their school. (To determine eligibility for financial aid, students should contact their school’s financial aid office.)
High School students can get ahead by earning college credits that can transfer to most Virginia colleges and universities.
Current TCC students can keep moving forward with this accelerated session.

Available classes include:

ART 101 History & Appreciation of Art I
CST 110 Introduction to Communication
ECO 201 Principles of Macroeconomics
ENG 111 College Composition I
HIS 111 History of World Civilization I
HIS 112 History of World Civilization II
HIS 121 United States History II
MTH 154 Quantitative Reasoning
MTH 155 Statistical Reasoning
PLS 211 U.S Government I

To search for mini-mester session classes, visit here. Be sure to select mini-session. Add the course name in the subject section and the course number in the catalog section.

For more information and help with enrollment, email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

Live! Inside a Nursing skills lab

A peek inside a Nursing skills lab

Clinical skills labs offer nursing students the opportunity to be hands-on with what they learned in theory. Because of precautions related to COVID-19, NSG106 is taught in a hybrid format with social distancing measures in place. Simulated labs in Building C on the Portsmouth Campus are lined with hospital beds holding “patients” (mannequins), each with an individualized chart. Today’s skill is wound care. The future nurses practice how to change dressing for a wound while assessing for signs of healing or potential complications related to infection.

They practice wound irrigation and document all findings in a simulated electronic medical record.

“We’re testing their critical thinking skills about how they would a handle a situation due to an abnormal finding,” said Rita Bouchard, associate dean of TCC’s Beazley School of Nursing.

Assistant Professor Catina Davis works with student Will Howard

Additional skills labs in a student nurse’s initial semester include sterile techniques, catheter insertion, dosage calculation and safe medication administration.

The students will be tested on all skills to access their competency prior to Thanksgiving.

Student voices

“I’m a hands-on learner, so this is what I do best.” — Karen Everett

“We do assessments, IV tubing, dress wounds — all the interesting fun staff — in here.” — Montana Chambers

Student Casey assesses a wound under the direction of Davis.

“It’s nice to practice all the hands-on skills here before you have to do them in an actual clinical setting.” — Katie Casey

“The best part is practicing our clinical skills.” — Will Howard

About the instructor

Assistant professor Catina Davis works one-on-one during skills labs to answer specific questions, offer constructive advice and remind the students not to overlook any of the details on their checklist. Davis started at TCC as an adjunct professor in 2016. She holds a doctorate in nursing practice from Walden University, a master’s with a focus in nursing education from Old Dominion University and a bachelor’s of nursing from Norfolk State University. Davis also has maternal newborn and medical surgical nursing experience.

Good to know

Even first-semester nursing students participate in clinical rotations. Each spends a total of 45 hours at either a Sentara or Bon Secours facility. “Everything they learned today,” Davis said, “they will be ready to do onsite.”

More information

Learn about TCC’s associate degree program in nursing here or contact enroll@tcc.edu.

Priority partnership with TCC offers nonviolent offenders a second chance

Two years ago, TJ Sexton and Ahmad Bilal lived in jail. Today, both are employed full time making more than $50,000 annually.

They are two of the inaugural graduates from the Priority Technical Training Center (PTTC), a program launched in 2018 by Tidewater Community College, Priority Automotive and the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office to give nonviolent offenders a new lease on life.

TJ Sexton at the Priority Technical Training Center — TJ Sexton

“Teaching nonviolent offenders to make a good, honest living and put their past in the rearview mirror is good for our communities, good for our law enforcement agencies, and good for Priority,” said Dennis Ellmer, chief executive officer and president of Priority Automotive. “This may seem like an unlikely partnership, but it just makes perfect sense.”

Built and funded entirely by Priority, the state-of-the-art automotive training center opened with dealerships across the country scrambling to find highly skilled auto technicians to service vehicles that grow more technologically advanced by the day.

Program participants were incarcerated at the Norfolk jail and bused to the facility five days a week for classroom instruction and on-the-job training. The year-long program boasts 27 graduates from the first two cohorts. Twenty four of those graduates, after their release from jail, are employed full-time at Priority dealerships.

Ray Mattox, the fixed operations director at Priority Chevrolet in Chesapeake, recalls a time when the PTTC grads working there now couldn’t turn a wrench.

“When they started, I paired them with a mentor technician to be sure they were learning the skills correctly,” Mattox said. “Today, they are high performers in our service centers, and I absolutely don’t know what I would do without them.”

Program graduate Sexton notes that his living situation is 10 times better now, calling the program the biggest blessing of his life.

“This is my second chance,” he said. “I didn’t know how I was going to get to this place that I pretty much dreamed about. I live in a nice apartment. I’m building my credit and I have three cars. But the best part is that I have a job I enjoy and stability like never before.”

Troy Clifton, executive director of Priority Toyota Charity Bowl, is the program coordinator and unofficial cheerleader.

“Make no mistake, these are my guys. I may wear a suit, but they know they can trust me, and I’m going to go to bat for them,” Clifton said. “I’m gratified at how well the trainees bought into the program and how well the mentors and coworkers have supported them.”

“I didn’t think I’d have this life, and I have no idea where I’d be without the program,” added program grad Bilal. “Every day, I can take what I’ve learned and pay it forward. That means a lot to me.”

Upon completion of the program, PTTC graduates have the opportunity to continue their education, earn new certifications and an Associate of Applied Science in Automotive Technology from TCC.

A state Senate joint resolution recently commended Ellmer for initiation and execution of the PTTC. Ellmer and Priority Automotive invested more than $2 million to establish the inmate training program. The program is on hold due to COVID-19 but is expected to resume in the future.

Priority Automotive CEO Dennis Ellmer (center) was recognized with a Senate joint resolution for creating the Priority Technical Training Center.

Live! Inside a Physical Therapist Assistant lab

In this series, we provide a closer look at hands-on learning during COVID-19.

While COVID-19 means online learning for most Tidewater Community College students, some are back in the classroom for hands-on training. In fact, more than 400 sections of classes in interior design, automotive, health professions, welding, veterinary technology, culinary arts, visual arts, electronics technology and other programs have on-campus components.

Learning skills together

Inside the Regional Health Professions Center on the Virginia Beach Campus, physical therapy assistant students engage in multiple role-playing scenarios as part of their hands-on learning. Ever had an ankle taped following a sprain?

Sarah Hamm and Linda Bishop practice ankle taping.

Second-year students practice on each other to prepare for their upcoming clinical rotations, which begin in November. The simulation labs for the fall also include cervical pain due to whiplash, lower back pain due to lifting and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The students will be tested on 11 patient scenarios before they head to a clinical setting.

Student voices

Students practice administering
ultrasound treatments during the lab.

“I researched PTA programs in the area, and TCC’s was the best one,” said Naomi Nevarez. “The graduation rate was super high, so I applied and here I am!”

“The hands-on aspect and being able to learn patient scenarios is my favorite part about this program,” said Cassie Noe. “The professors are always here to listen to you. If you are struggling, they are here to help you.”

“This feels like less of a program and more of like a family,” said Phillip Leonard. “We are trying to make it through this program together, and that’s what brings us closer. The connections you make with the students and professors make it worth it.”

“TCC has the best reviews out of everyone that I talked to,” said Celeste Gilley. “The ones who really want to be a PTA do their research when looking for a program, and TCC’s PTA program had it all.”

About the instructors

Melanie Basinger, program director, has been with TCC for 24 years. Basinger holds a bachelor’s in physical therapy from Ithaca College, a master’s in physical therapy from Old Dominion University and a doctorate in physical therapy from Shenandoah University.

Caitlin Culver at work taping a classmate.

“I love the energy of the students and the spark in their eyes when they get it,” said Basinger. “I love watching their success.”

Katie DiSanto, associate professor, earned a bachelor’s from Virginia Tech and a doctorate in physical therapy.

“Seeing it come full circle in a clinical setting is my favorite thing about this program,” DiSanto said. “All the sacrifices and the hardships that you endure over the years are completely worth it when you can change people’s lives.”

Instructor Katie DiSanto with Melanie Basinger, program head.

Good to Know

Admission is competitive for TCC’s nationally accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program, as only 32 spots are available. Five pre-requisite programs are mandatory; Basinger also recommends applicants complete BIO 142 and a humanities elective. While the program requires 40 observation hours for admission, applicants with 200 hours or more put themselves in a better position to be accepted. Applications must be submitted by April 15.

“When you graduate from this program, you are going to be highly sought out by employers. This program is better than any other program in the area, and I would put my students up against anybody,” Basinger said. “We have high expectations of our students and this is a program of excellence not average.”

Sign up

The program offers a one-hour virtual information session the third Thursday of every month at 4 p.m. Email Basinger at mbasinger@tcc.edu to receive the link or for further information.

Submit your questions by Oct. 22 for upcoming college-wide webinar

Tidewater Community College students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in a webinar on diversity and inclusion on Monday, Oct. 26.

Tia Brown McNair will lead the one-hour webinar titled “From Equity Talk to Equity Walk Q&A,” starting at 2 p.m. Email any and all relevant questions here prior to Thursday, Oct. 22.

Access the webinar at this link.

Tia Brown McNair is the vice president in the Office of Diversity, Equity and Student Success and executive director of the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Centers at the Association of American Colleges and Universities in Washington. She leads AAC&U’s efforts on equity and inclusive excellence.

In March 2020, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education named Brown McNair one of 35 outstanding women who have tackled higher education’s most difficult challenges with extraordinary leadership skills.

McNair Brown earned her bachelor’s in political science and English from James Madison University and hold a master’s in English from Radford University. She holds a doctorate in higher education from The George Washington University.

Live! Inside the Skilled Trades Center

In this series, we provide a closer look at hands-on learning during COVID-19.

Inside a sheet metal fabrication class at the Skilled Trades Center

Sheet metal specialists are responsible for the majority of the interior finish work on Navy vessels. The two-week training program at the Skilled Trades Center starts with the basics, all the way back to how to read a ruler. Students learn about measuring, how to use various wrenches and rivets and how to drill holes. They leave with the knowledge and know-how to lay out, fabricate, assemble, modify, repair and install sheet metal products related to ventilation on a ship.

Instructor Everett Wilkerson with student Sharia Hoffler

The training has a classroom component that includes basic mathematics – adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions and how this relates to measurements. Students learn how to use approximately 26 hand tools, including drillers and grinders. They are hands-on the very first day.

No prior knowledge required, yet by the end of the two weeks, students can see their results and refine their processes. Their finished product is its own work of a different kind of art.

“It’s very detailed work,” said instructor Everett Wilkerson. “You have to be good at measuring and particularly good at measuring angles.”

Student voices

“I was looking for a job and someone told me about this program. It’s working out.” — Sharia Hoffler

“I like working with my hands. It’s fun to use the tools. I like putting stuff together no matter how difficult it is.” — Christian Jones, who added, “The stuff we make in here is cool; it’s never boring.”

Kenneth Fitzhugh grew up tinkering with tools alongside his dad. “This is something different than most jobs. It gives me a goal.”

The sounds of the Skilled Trades Academy

About the instructor

Wilkerson is retired from Newport News Shipbuilding after working there 45 years as an outside machinist. Approachable with his students, he enjoys teaching students the proper techniques for using tools. “Once they’re finished, you can see they get a feeling of accomplishment,” he said.

“As they say, from here, you can pretty much go anywhere,”

Good to know

Some of the students in this program are part of Newport News Shipbuilding’s pre-hire program. That means they pay $250 and receive reimbursement upon successful completion of the class. After one-day of safety training, they have the green light to get hired and make upward of $19 per hour.

The female students in this cohort are part of the Women in Skilled Careers (WISC) cohort, a 12-week program that exposes women to six trades: marine coating, marine electrical, outside machinist, pipefitting, sheet metal fabrication and welding. After completion, graduates can earn industry-recognized credentials that make them eligible for immediate hire.

More information

Interested in learning a trade that leads to employment? Contact TCC’s Stan Ashemore at sashemore@tcc.edu. The Skilled Trades Academy is located at 3303 Airline Blvd., in Portsmouth.

Celebrating TCC’s own Jaedda Hall and her student-first approach

Tidewater Community College offers congratulations to Jaedda Hall, named a 2020 Millennial on the Move by The Business Magazine of Coastal Virginia, CoVaBIZ.

The Millennial on the Move award recognizes an established leader with a strong record of innovation, outstanding performance and meaningful community involvement.

Hall serves as coordinator of TCC’s Women’s Center STEM Promise Program,

She earned a master’s in urban education and community counseling and a bachelor’s in mass communications, both from Norfolk State University.

Hall is the current president for TCC’s chapter of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges.

TCC’s STEM Promise scholars offered these comments about the mentor they call “Ms. Jaedda”:

“Ms. Jaedda encourages students to do their best. She meets with her students monthly to check their progress with grades and classes. Actions speak louder than words, and I can tell that she genuinely cares about her students and mentors them toward their goals and success. She even encouraged me to apply to the Virginia Department of Transportation summer internship, and I was honored that I was able to participate in this experience. Ms. Jaedda is a true asset to this wonderful program. She has helped mold me into the person that I am today. — Katie Synowiec, an alumna from the inaugural class of STEM scholars, who is now at Old Dominion.

“Jaedda has helped me so much. The scholarship I was just awarded from WTS (Women’s Transportation Seminar), I wouldn’t have received if it wasn’t for Jaedda sending the information. She said she thought it would be a good opportunity for me. She was right!

“Jaedda gets to know all of us as a group and individually. We had one-on-one meetings to see how we were doing and if she could help us in any way. She kept us updated on STEM program information and many other opportunities we could take advantage of outside of the program. She’s not just a great coordinator and mentor, she is a super nice person who will help you anyway she can. — Alumna Kellie Burchfield, senior engineering technician for the City of Suffolk

“She has supported me a lot through my academic journey and has always been there when I needed help. She is amazing and I am glad to have her at TCC.” — current STEM Promise Program student Shannon O’Hara Wiora

“I love Ms. Jaedda; she is the absolute best. I remember feeling so comfortable and ready to transition from high school to college. For starters she set us up with people who have walked the 2-year engineering path already so you can ask questions and have someone to talk with that understands your predicament. Then there were sessions where we talked about classes, professors, study habits, and where to get extra help if you need it. I didn’t really have to come out of pocket for anything because she is constantly sending scholarships and paid internships your way.

“She keeps track of your progress in classes, making sure you’re on track and aren’t struggling. She took us places of interest where we could talk to other engineers, see the workplace, and potentially get our foot in the door for an internship/job. If we didn’t have transportation to an event, she would drive the bus to take us there and back.

“Whenever I had a question, she would hunt down the answer or point me in the direction to get it myself. Most importantly she was always updating her methods whether it be conducting meetings or helping students with classes. She always asked what she could do better and how she could better help us. Honestly, she’s the best. — STEM Promise Program alumna Christian McClenney, now at Virginia Tech

TCC military-related students to receive housing stipend while learning online

COVID-19 has disrupted all of our lives.

But thanks to a new law, the pandemic doesn’t have to derail the educational plans of TCC’s military-related students.

A new law, S. 3503, gives the Veterans Administration temporary authority to continue GI Bill payments uninterrupted and allows for continued payment of benefits, even if the program has changed from resident training to online training.

Since the start of the pandemic, TCC transitioned to remote learning for most students and will continue in that format at least through Spring Semester 2021.

“We’re honored to serve our military students and their families and know that having this financial resource guaranteed will certainly help many of our students on their academic journeys,” said Veronica Cianetti, Director, Military and Veterans Services at TCC’s Center for Military and Veterans Education (CMVE).

Traditionally, the housing stipend is only given to students who attend classes on campus. But with most colleges transitioning to remote learning due to COVID-19, the new law extends protection for veteran students studying online.

The protection will continue until at least December 2021.

To learn more about TCC’s services for military-related students, visit here.

For more information about using your GI Bill benefits, call the CMVE at 757-822-7645 or 855-399-7480 (toll-free if outside the U.S.).

Interested in scholarships at TCC? There’s still time to apply.

Whether you’re studying STEM, a recent high school graduate or a military-related student returning to school, Tidewater Community College offers scholarships to help you pay for tuition and books.

The scholarship deadline for spring semester is Nov. 15. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-apply, first-award basis as long as applicants meet all the criteria.

Most TCC Educational Foundation scholarships are worth $500 or more. They do not need to be repaid. Depending on your unmet need, you may be awarded more than one scholarship.

Complete the 2020-21 FAFSA online to determine your eligibility for financial aid. List TCC as your school of choice by using code 003712.

Use your myTCC login and password to sign in to the scholarship application system. From there, browse scholarship opportunities and apply for ones that fit you best.

For more information, contact the TCC Educational Foundation at foundation@tcc.edu or 757-822-1080.

Some of our recent scholarship recipients share the difference the funds made for them:

“I was extremely surprised when I was given multiple scholarships this year. I didn’t think students like me would qualify for such large scholarship awards. I think if you stay focused on your goal and push yourself, then returning to college is not as scary as people make it out to be.” — Tonia Smith, National Defense Industrial Association Scholarship. Smith is a mother of two who works a full-time job in addition to attending TCC.

Jordan Dagger, TCC scholarship recipeint — Jordan Daggers

“I am extremely grateful for this scholarship and hope to find other opportunities in the coming months to cover the cost of my education.” — Jordan Daggers, NAPA Auto Care Annual Scholarship.

Kaileen Myers, TCC scholarship recipeint. — Kaileen Myers

“I chose TCC because I’ve always heard great things about how the teachers connect with their students more and for financial reasons.” —Kaileen Myers, TCC STEM Promise Program and Don Carey REECH Foundation scholarship recipient.

Live! From inside a Machine Technology lab

In this series, we provide a closer look at hands-on learning during COVID-19.

While COVID-19 means online learning for most Tidewater Community College students, some are back in the classroom for hands-on training. In fact, more than 400 sections of classes in interior design, automotive, health professions, welding, veterinary technology, culinary arts, visual arts, electronics technology and other programs have on-campus components.

A peek inside the Precision Machining Lab

Lathes. Computer numerical control mills. Measurement tools.

Students in Rick Dyer’s machining classes are hands-on with state-of-the art equipment at the Precision Machining Lab on the Chesapeake Campus. It’s the same stuff they’ll encounter in the real world.

Students at work in the Precision Machining Lab on Chesapeake Campus.

Students complete the lab work at their own pace for several classes, including Machine Shop Practices (Machining 161) and Cooperative Education in Machine Technology (Machining 297).

In the basic course, they learn safety procedures and master hand tools, precision measuring instruments, drill presses, cut-off saws, engine lathes, manual surface grinders, and milling machines.

“Tonight, we’re making a motor shaft, gauge blocks and drill gauges used for sharpening drill bits,” Dyer said. “We’re thrilled to be back in the space because trying to learn online is tough. You have to see it and feel it to really do this work.”

Safety remains a priority in light of COVID-19.

“We have plenty of room to work and we are being diligent about cleaning the machines and tools between users,” Dyer said. “We’re using a plant-based disinfectant that kills germs but also protects the equipment from corrosion.”

Student voices

“This is an excellent program. With my full schedule it’s very helpful to have these labs in the evenings,” said Andrew Crowe, an IT tech in the Navy, retraining for a career as a metal worker. “I’m enjoying the interactions with classmates. It gets lonely teleworking at home, so this is a great distraction, and it’s preparing me for what comes after the military.”

“In here, you’re not working on a computer screen, and what you make you have in your hand. It either works or it doesn’t,” said Chris Smith. “We’re getting excellent instruction from Mr. Dyer, who is an expert in the field.” Smith is making a motor shaft and expanding his skills so he can get into fabrication. He currently works as an electrical engineering tech for the Coast Guard.

Chris Smith
Casey Matthews

“I love working with machinery and making things,” said J.D. Evett. “I got away from this work 20 years ago, and I’m so glad to be back into it.” Evett is working on a surface grinder making a set of gauge blocks. He transferred to TCC after his program shut down at another college due to COVID-19. He said he is grateful to continue learning to get closer to his goal.

Carter Casady
preparing to cut his block.

“It’s still surprising to see the tool come to life when we cut it,” said Carter Casady, a dual-enrolled high school sophomore from Kellam High. “I’m enjoying the machining as well as actually being in a lab and talking to other people.”

Good to know

The Precision Machining Lab prepares students for work in advanced manufacturing on the seven basic machine tools: turning machines, shapers, and planers, drilling machines, milling machines, grinding machines, power saws, and presses.

The lab includes computer numerical controlled mills, lathes, and surface grinders, along with numerous manual machine tools.

The lab is used by TCC students studying Machine Technology, Mechatronics, Maritime Technologies and Engineering.

About the instructor

Rick Dyer studied machining at Southeastern Regional Technical High School and completed his journeyman certification in 1981. He served 22 years in the Navy as a machinery repairman. After retiring, he worked for Newport News Ship Building as a planning engineer until accepting a teaching position with Norfolk Public Schools.

He studied career and technical education at Old Dominion University and holds a master’s in community college education. He has been at TCC since 2007, teaching engineering graphics, manufacturing and mechatronics at the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach campuses. In 2019, Dyer became the program lead for the Machining Technology Program.

Sign up

To learn more about TCC’s hands-on career and technical programs, including Machine Technology, email Dyer at rdyer@tcc.edu or email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

Navy veteran eager to be a doctor transitions to student life at TCC

Tidewater Community College made perfect sense for veteran Jacob Beagle.

After separating from the Navy in August 2019, the Michigan native who was stationed in Norfolk started college two weeks later at TCC determined to fulfill his lifelong ambition of becoming a doctor.

“It was just so convenient,” he said, noting the process of using his GI Bill benefits to cover his tuition was “quick and seamless” and “user friendly.”

Although fascinated by the sciences, Beagle, 26, admits to not being a strong high school student, though he certainly didn’t struggle with work ethic. At 14 years old, he was employed full time as a busboy, committed to contributing financially to his family.

“Honestly, I grew up in a low socioeconomic status household, and there weren’t a ton of opportunities to go to college,” he said. “I knew that’s essentially how you get out of poverty. I always knew that I wanted to pursue medicine, and it would not have happened if I didn’t have some sort of catalyst, like, joining the military, where I could get some experience, and then get out and have the GI Bill. That’s essentially priceless for students like me.”

Ultimately, Beagle wants to work in an emergency room, a calling that goes back to his dedication to service. Right now, he balances 15 credits at TCC with full-time work as a clinical assistant.

It’s a heavy load, though manageable with online classes. He originally planned to transfer to Old Dominion University this fall, but after a late acceptance, Beagle found out all the classes he needed were full. That led to his current slate at TCC, where he will finish with 47 credits toward an Associate of Science in Social Sciences.

He’s grateful for the foundation he found at TCC. “Attending orientation and meeting with an advisor are critical for someone like me who hasn’t been to school in a while,” he said. “I was a little bit nervous about it at first.”

Quickly, he became acclimated; having peers like himself helped. One-third of TCC’s enrollment is military-related students.

“We relate to each other on a different level,” he said. “Most of us are older and have been through many of the same things.”

Classes in biology, sociology and anthropology became favorites. He’s gotten to know his professors. He’s used the Writing Center to help with essays and used the resources at the Center for Military and Veterans Education.

Once Beagle completes his bachelor’s in biology at ODU, he will apply to medical school. He hopes to attend EVMS.

“I realized at a young age that to get out of poverty, you couldn’t do a mundane job,” said Beagle, who will be the first in his family to graduate college. “I observed what I saw other people do and knew I needed to emulate that.”

Military-related students can contact the CMVE for help with their GI Bill benefits and other questions. Call (757) 822-1111.

“I’ve gone from nothing to something in three semesters.” — scholarship recipient Dasha Chaney

Dasha Chaney wasn’t ready for college the first time around.

Now the 23-year-old is close to completing her Tidewater Community College cyber degree in just one year.

“I’ve gone from nothing to something in three semesters,” Chaney said. “I actually have the mindset for college now. I’m ready to push and meet my goals.”

A TCC scholarship recipient, Chaney was awarded the Christopher M. Garrett Memorial scholarship for $1,800 and the Barnes and Noble Textbook scholarship for $600.

Chaney is grateful for the funds, as they are helping to ease the financial crunch of her final 16-credit- hour semester at the college.

A high achieving student, Chaney was delighted to be awarded an academic scholarship. “It definitely gives me a boost and peace of mind that I can and will finish my degree,” she said.

Growing up, Chaney opted for Game Boy Advance instead of Barbie dolls.

“I always liked video games that were hands-on and visual. That’s what attracted me to cyber security. It’s a field that’s always advancing,” Chaney said.

The daughter of a Navy officer, Chaney said her father, Lt. Cmdr. Shelley Pulliam, has been a great influence in her life with everything technical, and now as an inspiration for her cyber career.

“My parents encouraged TCC early on, but I didn’t listen. I had to find my way back after a time at Old Dominion and a very brief enlistment in the Navy,” Chaney said.

Now Chaney’s course is clear, and she is preparing to be a cyber security analyst. While at TCC she is also completing her Network+ and A+ certifications. She plans to transfer back to Old Dominion to complete her bachelor’s degree.

Chaney credits campus advisor Kita Graham with helping make the transfer process easy.

An online learner, Chaney sends a shoutout to Joel Kirch, her favorite professor. “The community at TCC is what makes learning possible. All of my professors have been supportive and engaging,” she said.

Chaney participates in the Virginia Beach Campus Cyber Security Club. Because of COVID-19, the group has been meeting virtually for games and competitions. Chaney also volunteers for TCC’s Computers for Student Success, helping to refurbish computers and provide them to students in need.

She encourages students coming after her to “trust in your process and push yourself.”

Chaney added, “Never think you can’t do it, because you always can! And if it doesn’t work out the first time, get back up and try again!”

Spring scholarships are available now and most TCC students qualify. Browse the list of opportunities at tcc.edu/scholarships to find your fit.

Dual enrollment students who took care of business at TCC now thriving at James Madison University

Leora Friedman and Landon Elforsi didn’t want to waste time or money in college given the daunting load both anticipated as undergraduates in James Madison University’s College of Business this fall.

Both are among the inaugural class of graduates from the Entrepreneurship and Business Academy, a partnership between Tidewater Community College and Kempsville High School.

The academy offers three strands of study: entrepreneurship/innovation; business information; and the area that best suited Elforsi and Friedman, corporate finance. Students accepted into the academy are exposed to multiple dual enrollment credit opportunities, which allow them to earn an associate degree while in high school.

Last May, Friedman and Elforsi, along with a dozen of their peers, earned TCC’s Associate of Science in Business Administration. A month later, they completed their high school diplomas.

All of their general education requirements and six of the nine courses required for admission to JMU’s College of Business — ranked in the top 20 among public institutions nationwide — transferred seamlessly. Five of the 14 graduates of the academy attend JMU.

“The opportunity at TCC was very good,” said Elforsi, a finance major who was also accepted into the University of Virginia. “To be offered to complete two years of college before you graduate high school — especially when you’re completing the college part that nobody wants to do — I think it’s great!”

Essentially, the dual enrollment program added up to the future financial advisor, who did not want to pay four-year tuition rates for biology, communication and the other courses that typically fill a college freshman’s schedule.

Friedman’s mouthful of a double major — quantitative finance and math— is arguably the most rigorous at JMU’s College of Business. Fewer than 20 graduate from it every semester. A high level of difficulty appeals to Friedman, who is appreciative that she can commit so much time this semester to her business classes as dual enrollment through TCC satisfied all of her gen-ed requirements.

“It’s definitely one of the harder majors here,” said Friedman, who added an economics minor. “Now that I don’t have to take those gen-ed classes, I can really focus on my harder classes and take less credits each semester. I don’t have to worry about writing a paper on something that doesn’t really interest me.”

Both embrace numbers and mathematics and have for as long as they can remember. Elforsi, 18 and already talking about opening a Roth IRA, jokes he would return from vacation with more money than he left with. Friedman enjoyed math even in elementary school and embraces calculus with a passion.

“When I did the AP Calculus exam I did really well,” she said. “That’s how I knew I should major in it in college.”

In addition to the credits and accounting firm internships completed by each, Elforsi and Friedman felt prepared for the demands of the college classroom. They credit their TCC foundation for that.

“In college, the work is put on you rather than the teacher telling you what to do,” Friedman said. “You have to study. It totally helped me now that I’m at a university. I’m more used to it than my peers.”

Elforsi recommends the academy for those driven to succeed.

“Take dual enrollment over AP classes,” Elforsi said. “Because if you do well in a dual enrollment class, that’s guaranteed college credit.”

For more information, contact Meghan Timlin, academy coordinator at meghan.timlin@vbschools.com .

Live! Inside the TCC kitchens

A peek inside the TCC kitchens

Step inside the TCC kitchens for International Cuisine and you’ll see students preparing food specialties from around world. In the large commercial space, students are working at individual cooking stations, creating dishes that look great, and smell even better!

Brandon Parrish cooking couscous.
Tarranium Burns making veggie wraps.

“It may look different in here with the distancing, masks and cleaning protocols, but it’s all going well,” said chef Caroline Blackmon, who joined the college in 2015 after owning and operating her own cafe and catering business.

She added, “For culinary courses, the book helps teach concepts, but there’s nothing that beats the real-world experiences you gain in the kitchen.”

Chef Caroline Blackmon helping with a recipe.

International Cuisine is considered a “challenge” class, where students work independently and select recipes to demonstrate their skills. During this lab, TCC student chefs are creating a variety of entrees from matzo ball soup to curry tuna and couscous to American pot roast.

What if I can’t cook?

You don’t need any experience to sign up for the Culinary Arts program at TCC. Anyone with the desire to cook and the willingness to work hard can excel in the program. TCC’s Culinary Arts program is taught by expert faculty chefs who combine practical experience and academic perspective in all course work and integrate computer applications in the classroom and labs.

Student voices

Angelique Sherrod
Making matzo ball soup

“This is a program where we help each other, and I feel relieved to be back at school,” said Angelique Sherrod. “I absolutely, positively love it. I would not trade my time here for any of those fancy schools. This place feels like home.”

“This has been a very encouraging and positive experience,” said Brandon Parrish. “Chef Blackmon is kind, helpful and honest. She also has high expectations because she knows we can do it and wants us to succeed.”

“I completed the sanitization and safety class with chef Amie Burns last fall and now we are using those skills daily,” said Tarranium Burns. “I’m excited to get out there and use what I’m learning in the culinary world.”

Good to know

TCC’s Culinary Arts program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Education Foundation Accrediting Commission. Students who complete TCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and maintain a student membership in ACF automatically receive their first industry credential, Certified Culinarian.

TCC students can complete their TCC culinary degree for less than the cost of one semester at a for-profit, four-year culinary school.

Sign up!

To learn more about TCC’s culinary program, email program head chef Don Averso at daverso@tcc.edu. For more information about getting started at TCC, email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

TCC classes will stay largely online for the spring semester

Most of Tidewater Community College’s class schedule will remain online for the Spring 2021 Semester, with some classes being taught with a combination of online and in-person instruction.

Spring classes begin Jan. 11.

Career and technical courses, as well as some academic courses that require hands-on instruction, will be taught online and supplemented with on-campus sessions.

More than 400 sections of classes, including automotive, health professions, welding, veterinary technology, culinary arts, music, visual arts, electronics technology and other programs, will have on-campus components. Browse spring classes here.

“It’s been a successful fall semester for our students at TCC, who have embraced both the face-to-face instruction we offer and the remote learning option,” said Michelle Woodhouse, interim vice president for Academic Affairs and chief academic officer. “The safety of our students, faculty and staff remains our top priority, which is why we will continue to offer most classes online for the spring 2021 semester. However, we will increase our hybrid offerings, which allow students to combine traditional learning with web-based instruction.”

The college will continue to comply with health and safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Virginia Department of Health.

Faculty, staff, students and visitors must wear face coverings, use hand-sanitizer and complete a health self-assessment when they enter all college buildings. Signs serve as reminders for all to practice physical distancing and healthy hygiene.

Current and new students and their families can use TCC’s virtual student support services to prepare for the coming spring semester. Assistance is available with admissions, academic advising, financial aid, tuition payments and more.

For those without access to technology, TCC offers Virtual Student Support Rooms. These rooms are equipped with computers and internet access and will link directly to TCC’s virtual resources. Students will also be able to obtain I.D. cards, drop off documentation, and access computer labs.

For further assistance, call 757-822-1111 or email enroll@tcc.edu.

“TCC fits into my schedule and is helping me build the life I always saw for myself”

Single mom Teosha Taylor is determined to make a difference.

Taylor, 34, is studying Human Services at Tidewater Community College. After graduating next spring, she hopes to establish a charity to help teen moms, runaways and youth who have been neglected and abused.

Taylor is passionate about being the light for youth who are the most vulnerable.

“This hits close to home for me,” she said. “I’ve been in a home where there’s abuse and some of my friends were runaways because of abuse. I saw first-hand the damage that can be done, so now I want to be part of the solution.”

She added, “I know how it is to be in certain situations, but I also know that those situations don’t have to define you.”

Taylor received two scholarships this fall, the Mary Ferrell Flickinger scholarship for $1,500 and the Barnes and Noble Textbook scholarship for $600.

“What a gift! Getting help with tuition, fees and books was tremendous!” she said. “It’s helped me keep pushing, to make it to the finish line next May.”

The mother of three concedes that balancing home life and school can be challenging.

“The best part of TCC for me is the supportive faculty, the open access to programs, and the online classes,” she said.

Taylor’s favorite professor is Melvilyn Scott because she takes the time to make sure students understand the concepts and she responds to every request for help.

Taylor is already using what she is learning at her current job as a patient care specialist at Sentara Health Systems.

“I love everything about the program, even the paper writing,” she said.

“TCC fits into my schedule and is helping me build the life I always saw for myself. What could be better than that?”

Spring scholarships are available now and most TCC students qualify for scholarships. Browse the list of opportunities at tcc.edu/scholarships to find your fit.