Set your sights on a fulfilling Information Technology (IT) career that balances working with people and technology. As a computer support specialist, you will be a valuable asset to organizations, possessing the ability to listen attentively and adeptly solve technical issues. Your skill set will encompass hardware and software expertise, network maintenance, cyber security awareness, and even some programming and automation.

Your responsibilities may extend to recommending hardware and software solutions, overseeing network systems, maintaining and upgrading software using a support ticket tracking system, and providing employee training. You may also offer leadership support within the IT department and propose changes as needed to enhance business process efficiency.

In addition to developing technical competencies in this program, you will refine your interpersonal skills, with a strong emphasis on communication, teamwork, ethics, and servant leadership. Your training will include hands-on experience with Western's Student-Run Help Desk, as well as classroom instruction, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares you for success in the IT field.

Human resources is a profession for people who enjoy helping others. It offers a fulfilling career where you'll engage with diverse groups of people across various settings, including businesses, non-profits, and governmental organizations. Skilled HR professionals are essential for all types of organizations, as they handle crucial employee affairs, making a significant impact on both the organization's success and the well-being of its workforce.

Western's associate degree program covers seven key areas of HR, including safety, employment law, training, employee relations, compensation and benefits, staffing, and HR data and analytics.

With this degree, you will be well-prepared for a career as an HR professional. Your role may involve recruiting and selecting employees, implementing compensation systems, developing employment policies, designing training programs, promoting workplace safety, ensuring compliance with employment laws, managing employee relations, and measuring employee engagement.

A background in accounting is highly valued by employers. You can enhance your skill set with a certificate in Computerized Accounting. Included is a basic overview of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and training in accounting software, Microsoft® Word®, and Excel® programs. This certificate allows you to learn skills in your current employment or apply the credits toward the Accounting Assistant technical diploma or Accounting associate degree program for more earning potential. Classes are offered in a traditional setting, online, and via Interactive Television for some locations.

As a diesel and heavy equipment technician, your role is instrumental in keeping businesses and industries operational by diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, heavy trucks, and heavy equipment. Western's hands-on program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field, covering essential areas such as powertrains, electrical/electronic systems, chassis systems, brakes, and hydraulics of these equipment. Throughout your training, you will stay up-to-date with the latest industry technology and practices.

Our program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from welding and general studies to provide you with a comprehensive foundation for entering the field. Through applied, general, and specialized training, you will gain the expertise necessary for success. Most students complete the program within 21 months, and upon graduation, you will find excellent career opportunities in a secure and fulfilling industry. Your work will play a crucial role in keeping essential equipment running smoothly and contributing to the efficiency of various businesses and industries.

You can have a hand in designing products with your education in Computer Aided Design (CAD). CAD technicians work closely with engineers as they prepare and revise technical drawings and documentation used to build products for a variety of industries.

Courses include instruction in 2D and 3D CAD software, Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, and other technical tools used in the field. You might find this a rewarding field if you are strong in algebra and have an interest in manufacturing processes and engineering materials. Also important are good communication skills and an eye for details. Hands-on experiences complement classroom learning.