Business and Community Services

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Programs and Services

Personal Enrichment Programs. A wide variety of courses are offered to the community that provide opportunities for cultural enrichment, and a vocational pursuit, general interest, family and personal growth, fun and recreation, and enhancement of the ability to function effectively in society.

Advanced Technology Programs. Highly specialized, advanced technology programs are available that allow persons working in today’s rapidly changing technical fields to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills. These courses may be offered on-site for a company in customized formats. A wide array of CADD (computer-aided design and drafting) courses, including AutoCAD and Microstation, are offered through the Computer Training Institute. Pellissippi State is also a FeatureCAM Training Center and offers a number of courses in the area of computer aided machining and manufacturing. Additional advanced technology programs include programmable logic controllers, automated manufacturing, microelectronics and others.

Business and Professional Development Programs. BCS conducts numerous non-credit courses, seminars, and workshops that focus on business/management development and professional continuing education requirements. These program areas include business and management, supervision, customer service and professional examination review, certification, and relicensure.

Computer Training Institute. The Computer Training Institute serves the computer training needs of the community by providing a variety of regularly scheduled courses for individuals who need to upgrade their skills in computer operations or who need to develop new skills. Courses available range from introductory- level courses for the novice user to advanced courses for the experienced user. The short, intensive courses focus on computer applications and programming. Hands-on training is emphasized, with each student having access to a computer system. Classes are available during both the day and evening and are offered on a selected basis at all college sites. Courses may be customized to focus on specific company needs and provided in special formats under contract. Classes may also be offered on-site using company facilities.

Contract Industrial Training. In response to the specific training needs of area business and industry, Pellissippi State is able to develop and deliver customized training programs. These training and human resource development needs are the result of plant startups, expansion/renovation, work force upgrade, and ongoing employee training and development. The specialized contract training programs provide effective means for skills upgrading, apprenticeships, retraining and cross-training. Subject matter ranges from basic skills and workplace literacy to advanced technical skills. With experienced industrial training instructors, instructional designers, and program coordinators on staff, needs assessment, program design and development, training, and facility and project coordination can be provided in addition to the technical instruction. The contract technical training programs can be and are generally offered on-site, at an off-site training center, or at another convenient community location.

Quality and Productivity. The Quality and Productivity program provides resources through which area business and industry can receive education, training, and leadership in quality management and productivity. Quality development resources include on-site, customized training programs, public seminars and short courses, teleconferences, consulting, and business forums. Productivity programs include training in quality tools, team building and problem solving.

Environmental Training and Safety. The Environmental program assists area business, industry and government in understanding environmental and safety regulations and in meeting compliance requirements. The program also provides retraining and certification opportunities for persons involved in environmental, safety, and waste management occupations. The College also offers courses and assistance for companies planning to implement the ISO 14000 environmental management system.

Community Service/Outreach. BCS provides programs and services, such as the youth and parent education programs, to special community groups and target populations.

Tennessee Small Business Development Center. Partially funded through the U.S. Small Business Administration and operating as part of the Tennessee Small Business Development Network, the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Pellissippi State provides counseling and other services to small business in order to promote growth, expansion, innovation, increased productivity, and management improvement. TSBDC offices are located at the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership, the Blount County Chamber of Commerce and the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce. Please visit the Web site at www.tsbdc.org for more information.

Teleconferences. Through the resources of the College’s satellite teleconference/ video center, live, interactive teleconferences are offered that provide relevant and up-to-date information to businesses, community, government, and schools. Teleconference topics cover a broad range of pertinent subject areas, such as management, engineering, total quality, environmental health and safety, and other community and workplace issues of current interest.

Facilities. The College is able to offer state-of-the-art conference facilities and services to the community through BCS. Facilities include a 500-seat Performing Arts Center, a 150-seat auditorium, the 40-seat Executive Seminar Room, and a variety of other meeting and seminar rooms. Audiovisual equipment, technical support, food services and free, ample parking are also provided.

Credit Certificate Programs. Pellissippi State offers high-quality short-term training through its credit Certificate Programs. These programs are designed for working students who wish to update their skills or gain additional certification in a particular area. See the Catalog and Handbook section Certificate Programs for detailed information.

ACT Center. Pellissippi State is an approved ACT Center offering more than 3,000 Web courses in a broad array of disciplines. ACT Center services include

Computer-delivered certification and license tests for trades and professions.
Workplace skills assessments.
Skill-specific training in selected fields.

Performing Arts Center

Pellissippi State’s Performing Arts Center was completed in 1995. Since its opening, the theatre has showcased regional, national and international performances. The Performing Arts Center seats 495 people and has the latest in state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Access for people with disabilities and free parking make the theatre an enjoyable activity for anyone. If you would like additional information about the Performing Arts Center or are interested in renting the facilities, please contact Business and Community Services at (865) 539-7167.

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