Massanutten Technical Center (MTC) is a regional technical school serving students from Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County. Technical program classes, with the exception of Practical Nursing, are held from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM for first year students and from 12:00 noon to 2:30 PM for second year students.

The technical training offered at MTC is comprehensive in nature. MTC provides the skills needed for entry level jobs in local industries and the necessary theoretical background for both career advancement and for continued education at the community college or other educational institutions. Students successfully completing a MTC program will receive a certificate. Additionally, some programs provide the appropriate instruction so those students are prepared to pass state or national certification standards. MTC has a commitment to the philosophy that education should not end at graduation, but should be a lifelong process.

Auto/Diesel and Metalwork Technology

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY-This program provides a thorough understanding of the mechanics of the automobile. The instruction is divided into six teaching modules: Introduction to Auto Technology, Electrical Systems, Engine Performance, Engine Repair, Steering and Suspension, and Brakes. Students will develop mechanical and diagnostic skills, and learn to use the most up-to-date tools and equipment. Emphasis will be placed on ASE Certificate preparation throughout all phases of this program. Graduates are encouraged to continue their education at community colleges or technical institutes.

COLLISION REPAIR-This program provides instruction in collision repair, frame and wheel alignment, body panel repair, flexible parts repair and refinishing, fiberglass repair, interior trim and glass replacement, enamel refinishing, urethane single-stage base coat/clear coat refinishing, spot and panel repairs, rust repair, and estimating. Students will analyze all types of body damage and then restore vehicles to their original appearance. Emphasis is placed on the legal method of unibody repair according to the latest l-CAR standards.

DIESEL TRUCK TECHNOLOGY-This program provides students with entry-level job skills in diesel truck repair. Topics covered include instruction in diesel engine overhaul, fuel injection systems, the maintenance and repair of air brakes, power trains, electrical systems, hydraulic systems, heavy-duty air conditioning, in addition to preventative maintenance. During this two-year program, students will be provided instruction in the eight areas on which ASE heavy duty truck certification tests are based. Graduates are encouraged to continue their training in either an apprenticeship program, community college, or technical institute.

WELDING AND METALWORK-Welding provides students with the opportunity to develop a variety of skills in welding, metal work and other aspects of the metal trades. The classroom curriculum includes layout work, blueprint interpretation, and welding mathematics. Laboratory experiences are provided in sheet metal layout, bending and assembly, and MIG, TIG, manual arc, and oxyacetylene welding. Second year students are encouraged to work toward welder certification.

Computer Technology

**NEW**ADVANCED MANUFACTURING-This course will introduce the student to the basics of robotics and computer-integrated manufacturing. Programmable Logic Control (PLC) and Computer Numeric Control (CNC) of a variety of manufacturing processes will be discussed. Students will learn to program these computer controllers enabling a single machine to perform a number of different tasks. These skills will prepare students for careers with any business using an automated manufacturing process. Students may earn college credit at Blue Ridge Community College after successful completion of this course.

 

COMPUTER REPAIR/A+CERTIFICATION-This one-year course provides students with the opportunity to develop skills needed to begin a career in building, installing, and troubleshooting computers. Students study both computer hardware and operating systems. Hands-on laboratory exercises, computer-aided instruction, and various reference materials are used to supplement the classroom instruction. All topics that are included on the most current CompTIA A+ Exam are covered so that students are prepared to take these exams at the end of the year. This class is offered in the morning.

 

**NEW**COMPUTER NETWORKING-A one year introductory course that includes several hardware and software topics needed to implement a basic network. Hands-on activities will include making network dabbles and building networks that use hubs, switches, and servers. Students will set up a server and do basic network trouble shooting. All topics on the CompTIA Network exam will be covered. Students taking this course should have A+ certification or equivalent knowledge. This class is offered in the afternoon.

COMPUTER ANIMATION- A one semester, 1.5 credit graphic design class offered in the spring, which focuses on the many uses of Adobe & Macromedia Software. Students will learn to develop master pages, text with story editor, jump lines, utilize animation software, clip art, linking, interactive design, color libraries, and to create hyperlinks. This is an opportunity to apply your creative abilities while obtaining a highly marketable skill. Computer Animation may be taken alone or in sequence with Webmaster. If taken alone, student should have working knowledge of WebPage development.

WEBMASTER-A one semester, 1.5 credit course offered only in the fall. After completing this class, students will possess the skills needed to create web pages using the popular software, FrontPage. Use your creativity coupled with instruction in developing marquees, hyperlinks, frames, page banners, and themes to enhance your career possibilities. This course may be taken alone or in sequence with Computer Animation.

Construction Trades

CARPENTRY-The Carpentry I class covers topics such as hand tools, and stationary and portable power tools. The students will also build small projects designed to help them understand the tools and machines of the trade. These projects will include saw horses, toolboxes, and storage sheds. The second year, Carpentry II class covers all aspects of residential carpentry from builder's level and transit to site layout. Second year students, in cooperation with other classes, will build a full-size home. The importance of quality work and the advantages of working together as a team are emphasized. Students will use basic math skills and will learn how to calculate square footage and cubic yards of concrete. Students can continue their carpentry education by entering the carpentry apprenticeship program as an adult and receive credit for two required classes.

DRAFTING&endash;This program prepares students to enter the field of mechanical and/or architectural drafting. Topics taught include basic drafting, lettering, drawing geometric shapes or orthographic views, dimensioning, and sheet metal layout. Students also become proficient in the use of software for computer-aided drafting (CAD). Students learn to translate the ideas, sketches, specifications, and calculations of architects, engineers, and designers into working plans. Blue Ridge Community College will grant college credit for students who are successful in this program.

ELECTRICITY-Hands-on training, in conjunction with textbook instruction, gives students a broad understanding of the electrical trades. The first year program concentrates on basic electricity, electrical theory and power generation, with a primary focus on residential wiring and trouble-shooting. Actual hands-on circuits are completed in classroom wiring booths as well as in a full-scale modular home. In the second year, the program concentrates on commercial wiring practices including running and bending conduit, motor theory and operation, motor control wiring, and maintaining electrical systems within MTC. Typical projects for second year students include lighting maintenance, replacement and upgrading equipment, general repair and trouble-shooting, installation of outlets, machinery, and lighting systems as well as remodeling work. Eligible second year students may participate in "on-the-job training" in an electricity related job, beginning with the second semester of the second year.

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING TECHNOLOGY-Students will learn the basic principles of heating and air conditioning through the understanding of basic electricity (high and low voltage), refrigerant flow and air flow (duct design). Technical training and troubleshooting skills will be applied to residential oil and gas hot air and hot water systems, heat pump, electric heating and air conditioning.

MASONRY/DECORATIVE CONCRETE&endash;Program will provide instruction in laying brick, building footings and foundations, doing straight wall work and corner building, building arches and columns, and reading architectural blueprints. The most up-to-date decorative concrete stamped work and other decorative finishes are taught in this program.

Health and Human Services

COSMETOLOGY-This competency-based program provides theory and hands-on training in all phases of the profession, including hair cutting, styling, coloring, chemical relaxing, shampooing, perm waving, facials, artificial nails, and hairpieces. Successful students possess good math skills, passing grades in biology/science courses, excellent manual dexterity, and are aware of their personal appearance. Upon satisfactory completion of all program requirements, students will be prepared to take the Virginia State Board Examination to become a licensed hairdresser.

 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE-The first year of the Criminal Justice program provides students with an introduction to the American criminal justice system with an emphasis on law enforcement. Other topics covered include the use of drugs in our society and an introduction to the court and correction systems. In the second year, instruction is given in the workings of the police, the courts, and of correctional facilities. This program articulates with the Criminal Justice program at Blue Ridge Community and will enable the student to earn college credit in the AAS degree program.

HEALTH CAREERS&endash;Students in this program learn nurse's aide skills, which include taking and recording vital signs and assisting with special health care procedures. At the end of the first year, students are encouraged to take the state Certified Nursing Assistant exam.

The second year of the Health Careers program provides training necessary for a medication aide, and expands upon first year training to provide more advanced skills. Additionally, Health Careers II students may choose clinical options in 3 areas of their choice or elect work release if employed in a health career related job. Dual enrollment is also an option for those students who have made a decision concerning the Health related college curriculum they wish to pursue. Following successful completion of the first year, students who are high school seniors may also elect to be considered as an applicant for the Practical Nursing Program.

PRACTICAL NURSING-An applicant for this competitive eighteen-month program must be a senior in high school, a high school graduate, or have a GED certificate. First year students spend one-half day at MTC in pre-clinical instruction which includes the study of the structure and function of the body, principles of nutrition, basic nursing skills, pharmacology, dosage computation, and introduction to the nursing care of the adult client. This is followed by a second 36-week phase of instruction, which has 12 hours per week of classroom instruction, and 20 hours per week providing nursing care to clients under teacher supervision in the acute care setting (RMH), as well as in the long-term care setting.

RESTAURANT CAREERS-Students in this program learn the principles of food preparation and presentation, the use and care of commercial food service equipment, food quality standards, and proper food handling and sanitation procedures. Other topics covered include serving food using a variety of service styles, developing menus, receiving and storing food and supplies, and managing the food service operation. Students will also develop leadership skills and participate in various community activities through membership in Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) programs and projects, and meet the chefs/employers in the Valley through membership in American Culinary Federation (ACF).

**NEW**VETERINARY ASSISTANT-Veterinary Assistant is an introductory course in the field of Veterinary Medicine. Students will explore various careers in Veterinary Science and learn specific skills as a Veterinary Assistant. This class teaches small animal health care and how to assist the veterinarian with routine examinations, pet handling, feeding, and grooming.

Work Experience

CAREER AND TECHNICAL COOPERATIVE EDUCATION WORK EXPERIENCE-This program is designed for students who want to gain real-world, paid work experience while still in high school. Students are placed in career-related jobs and must be employed for a minimum of 396 per year.

Program Length - Many programs are designed to be two years in length, although the Practical Nursing program is 18 months. However, students who are not seeking a two-year certificate may elect to attend for one year. Additionally, some classes are designed as one year or one-semester courses. Each program has a maximum number of students that can be accepted.

Who May Enroll - Rockingham County or Harrisonburg sophomores, juniors, or seniors may enroll in MTC. Students graduating after completing one year of a program are encouraged to return to complete the second year as an adult student. Scholarship money may be available to these students. Adults entering the first year of a program are accepted on a space available basis.

Credits and Certificates - Three credits are earned per year in the technical programs. Certificates are granted in the technical programs to those students who meet both grade and hour requirements. Completing one year at MTC satisfies the student's graduation requirement for a two course elective sequence. Through many of the courses, students can earn college credit for Blue Ridge Community College.

Insurance - School or family insurance is required for all MTC students.

Fees/Textbooks - All required textbooks are free. Each department has a nominal fee for consumable items such as workbooks and materials.

MTC School Calendar - Follows Rockingham County School calendar.

Student Activities &endash; Skills USA - VICA, Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), American Culinary Federation (ACF), Computer Technology Organization (CTO), and the National Vocational-Technical Honor Society (NV-THS).

**New Programs - New programs, as with all classes, must meet minimum enrollment requirements. Any class not meeting minimum enrollment may be withdrawn.

Students who enroll in certain classes at MTC can earn college credit at BRCC at the same time. By meeting certain requirements, you can earn from 3 - 15 credits in the following classes: Computer Repair (3 credits), Criminal Justice (9 credits), Drafting (9 credits), and Nursing (15 credits). Then, if you complete your AA&S College/University Transfer degree, you can guaranteed admission to James Madison University. Check with your guidance counselor or call Massanutten Technical Center for complete information.

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