MEXICO – Two new vocational programs scheduled to begin at the Region 9 School of Applied Technology in the fall need advisory committee members willing to share their experiences in the work world.

Vocational programs in automotive technology and early childhood development will become part of the school’s offerings when a $4.9 million renovation and construction project is completed.

Cheryl Ellis, student services coordinator, said people interested in serving on either of the advisory committees should have business experience, knowledge of the vocation, or interest in the program offering.

Advisory committees meet at least twice a year and serve as resources to the instructional staff and assist with curriculum, among other things.

Paul Gagnon, a Rumford resident who teaches automotive technology at Central Maine Community College in Auburn, is helping to get the automotive advisory committee going. Eileen Steck, a Woodstock resident and teacher of early childhood education at the same college, will assist with that advisory committee, Ellis said.

Each of the vocational programs at Region 9 have an advisory committee of six to 20 members who meet with the staff of each vocational program.

The first meeting of the new Automotive Advisory Committee is Feb. 26. The Early Childhood Advisory Committee will meet in mid-February.

At the initial meetings, members will learn about the new programs and how Region 9 got to the point of offering two new vocational programs, and discuss the qualifications for instructors.

Other advisory committees support programs in the building trades, metal trades, forestry, computer technology, nursing assistants, co-operative education, and diversified occupations.

Those interested in becoming part of the new advisory committees may call Ellis at 364-3764.


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