August 16, 2023
Dear MTCC:

Welcome to Fall 2023! The semester has started off smoothly, and I just left the Library where students are still being advised. The magic of McDowell Tech is in our personalized approach to delivering our student services, training and educational opportunities -- it is because of you that our institutional momentum is strong -- and I know that will continue into the 2023-24 academic year!

I enjoyed the Fall 2023 Convocation last week. As we move into a new year, I encourage you all to continue to Learn & Grow. How can we better serve our individuals (students and employees), our community, and our institution? Continue to dream about new, innovative ways that MTCC can continue to strengthen its commitment to our mission and vision. And, always remember you are here because you embody our Values....

We are Caring and Supportive of all.
We are Reliable and Available when needed.
We are Sincere in our commitment.
We are Amazing.

Here's to an awesome academic year!

With gratitude,
Brian S. Merritt, Ph.D.
President
2023-24 Year at MTCC Promises Success
If the upcoming fall semester at McDowell Technical Community College could be summed up in three words, those words would undoubtedly be, “Learn, Grow, Dream.” The college has new programs and opportunities for students looking to learn a new skill, get a promotion, and secure that dream job.

There are more short-term workforce development classes than ever for students wanting to transition quickly into new and better jobs, and a number of exciting new curriculum programs are beginning to meet state and regional workforce demands. Plans for a new building are underway, renovations will start this fall on the highly anticipated Rocket Building in Old Fort, and the design phase is beginning for a new emergency services driving track. For students and the community, success is just around the corner!

Workforce Solutions in Early Childcare: New MTCC Scholarships & Faculty A Game Changer
A new scholarship program in early childhood education at McDowell Technical Community College will significantly increase the number of credentialed employees working in childcare centers, schools and non-profit organizations, as well as those providing licensed homecare throughout Western North Carolina. The program and scholarships have been funded by Dogwood Health Trust through at least 2026.

Board of Trustees - August 2023 Meeting Updates
The MTCC Board of Trustees met for its regular monthly meeting on August 10, 2023. Highlights from the meeting include the following:


  • First reading for a new temporary Policy 2.26 Paid Parental Leave. This is being proposed as a "temporary" policy pending approval by the State Board of Community Colleges. It is a requirement for college's to have it in place regardless of its temporary status. MTCC currently has it published as a local procedure.

  • Approval of a revised organizational structure with the following individuals and job titles:
  • Ryan Garrison, Senior Vice President of Finance & Administration
  • Stacy Buff, Vice President of Workforce Development
  • Valerie Dobson, Vice President of Academics & Student Services
  • Dr. Bo Bennett, Dean of Business, Arts and Sciences
  • Brandon Hensley, Dean of Career & Technical Education

A Farewell Reception will be held for Dr. Merritt on August 29 from 3-5 p.m. at the Universal Advanced Manufacturing Center. All are welcomed to attend.
Meet Rose! New MTCC Photography Instructor at Forefront of Art and Technology
When McDowell Technical Community College recently searched for a new lead instructor in photography following the retirement of long-time instructor Blake Madden, the perfect candidate emerged in Rose Jerome— someone capable of marrying two somewhat disparate constructs in photography: art and technology. 

By virtue of her educational background and professional experiences over the years, Jerome is uniquely qualified to prepare students for professional careers that rely on technical expertise in the studio or elsewhere, but also inspire students who want to create “art,” realizing that both types of students must begin with a solid foundation in how to operate various types of photography equipment, from DSLR cameras to studio lights, filters, reflectors and more.


August 14
Classes Begin

August 16
End of Drop/Add: 16-week/1st 8-week Classes

August 23
Tuition Refund Deadline/10%

August 28
14-week classes begin

August 30
End of Drop/Add: 14-week Classes

September 4
Labor Day (Holiday)

September 18
Last Day to Receive Non-Punitive Grade of “W”

October 9-10 
Fall Break (Work/Annual Leave)