SW Kansas News

Garden City Community College was named Best for Technical Education in 2023 in Kansas by Intelligent.com, a higher education resource guide for online/on-campus program rankings and higher education planning. The ranking was based on an evaluation of each program for the strength of its academic quality, graduation rate, cost and ROI, and student resources.

"The external recognition of GCCC being "Best for Technical Education in 2023 in Kansas" validates and affirms the quality programs and high caliber and excellence of our faculty," said Dr. Ryan Ruda, GCCC President. He continued, "Each of the technical programs at GCCC provides a pathway to careers which are high wage or high demand. These programs align with our mission of producing contributors to the economic and social well-being of society. The recognition affirms the high standards and value derived from programs at GCCC."

GCCC technical education faculty have significant experience, drawn directly from their industry, said Dr. Marc Malone, Vice President for Instructional Services/Chief Academic Officer. He continued, "We have exceptionally dedicated faculty members in all our programs, and especially in technical education. They bring knowledge and know-how directly to students from their industry. And then they continue to cultivate industry connections and feedback to ensure students at Garden City Community College leave with skills they need to be successful." 

After students leave GCCC, data shows about 97% of technical education students stick with their studies and find meaningful employment in their field, Dr. Malone shared. "And that's a testament to the leaders of the technical programs--the faculty," he stated.  

Chuck Pfeifer, Dean of Technical Education and Workforce Development, echoed the sentiment, "By working alongside local and regional industry partners, the faculty and staff of the Technical Education division at Garden City Community College are able to deliver the most relevant and updated instruction possible. This recognition serves to confirm that GCCC is committed to the highest quality in teaching and learning."

Garden City Community College offers many technical education programs including agribusiness, animal science, automotive technology, carpentry, computer support specialist, cosmetology, criminal justice, emergency medical services technology, fire science, food science/meat production, industrial maintenance mechanic, John Deere ag tech, nursing/allied health, production agriculture, and welding technology. Learn more about these programs here: https://www.gcccks.edu/academics/divisions-folder/technical/default.aspx or contact (620) 276-7611. 

Original source can be found here.