Meeting area industry, student needs behind new PJC offerings

Published or Revised January 29, 2014

Keeping a steady supply of trained workers to fill industry needs in Northeast Texas is a key objective for Paris Junior College. So too is providing flexibility to assist students. PJC launched the plumbing program to assist the construction and industrial maintenance industries. Just starting this semester is Kevin Adams, PJC's new instructor of plumbing. Students interested in plumbing should register immediately. In the construction field, plumbers constitute one of the largest and highest paid occupations. Through 2020, there are projected to be 1,640 jobs generated per year in PJC's five-county service area. A plumber's average entry wage is $14 per hour with an average wage of $21 per hour. Plumbers may find employment with building equipment contractors, residential and nonresidential building construction, and utility system construction. A late start date has been set for the certificate in nail technician that is part of the Cosmetology program. Those students who may not be ready to start Monday but are considering this as an option have until Jan. 27 to come in and register. This certificate could be a first step towards more in depth training in the cosmetology program. "At PJC we continue to be receptive to community interests and needs and providing greater flexibility for our students," said PJC President Dr. Pamela Anglin. For information about these programs call the PJC Admissions Office at 903-782-0425.