Office of Access and Workforce Opportunity (AWO)

Explore Education and Career Pathways at Southeast Technical College

Whether you're exploring college for the first time, preparing for a new career, improving your skills, or returning to school after time away, the Office of Access and Workforce Opportunity (AWO) at Southeast Technical College is here to help.

We provide free programs, career exploration resources and connections to community support services that help individuals overcome barriers and build a pathway to educational and career success.

AWO partners with schools, employers, workforce agencies, community organizations and regional nonprofits to support learners at every stage of their journey.

Who We Help

Education and career opportunities don't begin the day you enroll in college. Many adults are ready for college or career training long before they know what steps to take. AWO can help you identify your goals and create a plan to achieve them.

Academic and Workplace Readiness

AWO offers academic and workplace readiness workshops to help you determine what you want to study, how to budget for it, and how to prepare for college classes. Our programs are free and open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

We work closely with Southeast Tech's Office of Workforce Development, which partners directly with employers and industry leaders to strengthen the region's workforce through customized training, professional development and business partnerships. Together, we create pathways that connect individuals to education and careers and employers to skilled talent. While AWO does not oversee Admissions or Financial Aid, we work closely with those offices to help students complete enrollment steps and identify funding opportunities.

Financial Literacy for College

Thinking about college but wondering how you'll afford it? This free 6-week workshop helps you understand college costs, budgeting, and practical strategies for making your education financially possible. Participants will leave understanding how to plan for a program of their choice at STC. Those who attend every session will be eligible for a $150 stipend.

Computer and Digital Literacy

Do you want to feel more confident using a computer for school or work? This workshop builds practical skills in computers, the internet, email, and Microsoft Word so you can navigate digital tasks with greater confidence. Participants will learn to use STC Learning Management System to prepare for using the LMS as a student and will also have access to the NorthStar Digital Literacy platform.

Academic Language

College has a language of its own and knowing that language can make navigating the process much easier. This free workshop helps participants build college and academic vocabulary while learning the unwritten rules and expectations of college.

TEAS Test Prep

Preparing to take the TEAS exam for the vet tech or healthcare programs at STC? This free 6-week workshop gives you focused practice and strategies to build your confidence and strengthen the skills you need to succeed on the exam. Participants will take a practice test on day one and another test at the end of the workshop to see how they’ve improved.

How to Register

Seating is first-come, first served. Workshops are limited to 15 students. If a session fills, AWO will contact you about registering for the next cohort.

REGISTER FOR WORKSHOPS

Resource Navigation Support from Certified Community Health Workers

As Certified Community Health Workers, AWO staff members serve as liaisons between health and social services providers and the community to help community members access services and improve quality and cultural competence.

We work with current and prospective STC students and their families to increase health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy. When life gets in the way of learning, we'll help you find solutions. We can connect you with resources related to:

Food and nutrition
Housing
Transportation
Childcare
Healthcare
Mental health services
Technology and internet access
Emergency financial resources
Scholarships
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Sometimes finding the right resource is only the first step. When appropriate, we can help you navigate unfamiliar systems, prepare for important conversations, connect with community partners, and advocate for the support you need, including filling out applications for Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, Section 8, childcare assistance, respite care and more.