BEGINNING THE NEW YEAR WITH NEW FACES

(October 5, 2007) . . .ICTC began this school year with a few new faces. Students, faculty, and staff extend a warm welcome to Dr. Kathy Wunder. Dr. Kathy Wunder is the Indiana County Technology Center’s (ICTC) Superintendent of Record. Dr. Wunder recently sat down with ICTC student reporter, Jennifer Harvey, to share her thoughts about her new responsibilities at ICTC.

“I was really impressed with ICTC from the quality of the facility, to the quality of instructors and skills taught. It is a professional environment that develops marketable skills in our students so that employers in our community are proud to hire our graduates,” Dr. Wunder acknowledged.

A 1971 graduate of Marion Center, Dr. Wunder “returned home” to Indiana County as the superintendent for United School District, and was appointed superintendent of record for the ICTC this year. Previous to Dr. Wunder’s present position, she was a music teacher, a high school principal, and a superintendent.

Dr. Wunder shared her high regard for the ICTC and believes others should as well. Her goals include maintaining the highest quality school where students are proud to attend! ICTC provides education for the competitive edge! Since college based careers aren’t for everyone, Dr. Wunder believes ICTC gives students the chance to prepare for their future by getting certified in their area of study. Dr. Wunder feels this is a “nice advantage for our students.” She’s very excited to be working with the ICTC.

ICTC’s Director, Mrs. Carol Fry, also shared her enthusiasm for the new school year with reporter, Matt Mano. Mrs. Fry indicated that we were off to a good start toward our continuing objective of preparing students for the future. Her message to all students was, “As a school community, we provide the challenge and the opportunity for students to be successful in their occupational program area.”

One of our new additions is Mr. John Scott, who is an instructional assistant in the Carpentry program area. Mr. Scott is stepping in to assist instructor, Mr. Jeff Rudd, while Mr. Dennis Overdorff is on sabbatical leave. When asked his impression of the Carpentry shop and the school he replied, “We are having a good time. I am still learning, even with all my years of experience.”

Before coming to ICTC, Mr. Scott was a retired teacher from Central Cambria High School. In his spare time he enjoys doing many things including woodworking, water skiing, and golfing. His family consists of three sons, and four beautiful grandchildren. Mr. Scott has many goals for the Carpentry shop including helping with the building of a gazebo and a modular home which are a few of the things that they are planning in carpentry this year.

In addition, Mrs. Sharon McGinnis has a new instructional assistant, but if she looks familiar, it’s because Mrs. Melanie Brubaker was Mrs. McGinnis’ student teacher last year! Mrs. Brubaker graduated from IUP in December with a Masters degree in Education.

Previously to attending as a student at IUP, she spent eight years in Harrisburg working in marketing. Mrs. Brubaker has a husband and a four-year-old son. Her hobbies include freelancing, and web design.

When asked her impression on ICTC, she responded, “I think it offers state-of-the-art education for its students.” The thing she likes best about ICTC is “the students and their commitment to the program.” She is currently working with her students on PhotoShop, web design, and Flash.

A couple of familiar faces have been seen in new surroundings. First, Mr. Craig Volpe has moved into the cooperative education position. Also, new assignments for instructional assistants may have had you doing double-takes the first few days of school.

First, Mrs. Jane Miller has a new assignment in Machining Technology working with Mr. Keith McCracken. Mr. Mark Brady is working again with Mr. Mike Miller in Collision Repair Technology.

Welcome everyone, and best wishes to all for a successful school year!

For more information on the ICTC, click here.

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