Aspire2Tech
A solid set of skills in reading, writing and math lay the groundwork for success in post-secondary education and the workforce. The Aspire2Tech program offered at Southeast Technical College through the Hovland Learning Center prepares individuals with the necessary education to go on to start careers in Childcare, Healthcare, Business or Manufacturing.
Available Courses
The Introduction to Childcare course teaches developmental milestones, nutritional needs and appropriate disciplinary strategies for young children. Students also gain reading and language skills and learn about the behaviors and values needed for the workplace. Students will also earn a Work Ethic Certificate through this course.
Reading grade equivalent of 4-8
Language grade equivalent of 4-8
The Introduction to Healthcare course teaches patient care skills and effective communication and interpersonal skills, the principles of infection control. Students also gain reading and language skills and learn about the behaviors and values needed for the workplace. Students will also earn a Work Ethic Certificate through this course.
Reading grade equivalent of 5-8
Language grade equivalent of 5-8
In the Introduction to General Industry Safety course, students will learn about the hazards workers may face on the job and about safe and healthy work environments, as well as reading and language skills. Students will also earn a Work Ethic Certificate through this course.
Reading grade equivalent of 4-8
In the Introduction to Business course, students will learn computer skills, including typing, word processing and basic spreadsheets. Students also gain reading and language skills and learn about the behaviors and values needed for the workplace. Students will also earn a Work Ethic Certificate through this course.
Reading grade equivalent of 4-8
Language grade equivalent of 4-8
Earn Additional Certifications
National Career Readiness Certificate
Students that successfully complete an Aspire2Tech course have the opportunity to get a National Career Readiness Certificate. Southeast Technical College and the Aspire2Tech program work in conjunction with the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation to offer this certificate. ACT WorkKeys exams are the foundation of the ACT National Career Readiness System, a job skills credentialing system. Students can earn an ACT National Career Readiness Certificate by taking three ACT WorkKeys exams:
- Applied Mathematics
- Locating Information
- Reading for Information
Work Ethic Certificate
The curriculum focuses on developing these basic soft skills, often referred to as work ethic, and include how workers:
- Get along with others
- Show up for work
- Resolve conflicts
- Take direction
- Express professionalism
Employers around the country say that these skills are the most important factor in hiring a new employee, even above the technical skills for the job. Students that complete the Introduction to General Industry Safety course will get this certificate with their coursework.
Program Requirements
Students wishing to enroll in an Aspire2Tech program must be:
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16 years of age
At least 16 years of age AND beyond the compulsory attendance age (18 years of age in South Dakota).
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Not Enrolled
Not enrolled in any K-12 schools.
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Valid ID
In possession of a valid Social Security card or comparable documentation.
Length of Time
Each course offered through Aspire2Tech will meet 8-16 weeks for a total of 64-256 hours.
Prerequisites
There may be required scores in reading, math and language. Please see each course listing for details.
Cost
Individuals enrolled in Aspire2Tech are not charged a tuition fee, but are responsible for purchasing the materials and supplies required for their class. Please contact the Southeast Tech Bookstore for details.
Contact
Jennifer Keyes
Adult Education and Literacy Program Director
Hovland Adult Learning Center
Mickelson Center 250C
