Accelerated Program Helps Holden Land Dream JobWelding is one of the few career choices in which a student can receive certifications after two semesters of course work and start earning $30 to $40 an hour. For Cerro Coso student Ryan Holden, the Accelerated Welding Program proved just the catalyst he needed to land a well-paying job doing something he truly enjoys. Sparks flying and the smell of fireworks energize the young man, who has always liked working with his hands. “You always hear you should pursue a career in something you love doing,” he explained. From a family of many welders, his desire to weld just seemed to come naturally. When Holden first learned about the college’s new accelerated welding program, he knew this was his opportunity to earn the certification he needed to chase his career dreams. What he didn’t expect is that it would pay off so quickly. Earning his American Welding Society (AWS) and Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Certifications last spring landed Holden the job of his dreams working for a ship repair and fabrication company in San Diego. Welding is one of those professions where quality and productivity are everything. “I feel like I learned a lot from one of the best instructors and experienced welders I know,” said Holden of instructor Herman Foster. “I soaked up everything he said like a sponge,” he continued. “He instilled in us the importance of our welds. He’d say…I want to know when I drive across that bridge it is going to stand up, or that hand rail, it’s going to hold me if I sit on it. Welding can be rough, hard, and dangerous work and

(Continued on Page 5)

Accelerated Program Helps Holden 1Faculty Recognized for their Investment 1

McNair has Big Heart for Education 2Ooi Brings Expertise and Passion for Science 2

Karnes Returns to the Classroom 3Holy Smoke, Batman, It’s Ashley Mills 3

Brown Retires After 26 Years of Service 4Students Help Jump Start the Semester 4

Champion Takes on New Role at CDC 5Huthmacher New A & R Tech 5

Cruise-In Auto Show 6Foundation Feature - Star Party 6

SEPTEMBER 2014 CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Inside this Issue

CCCC Student Ryan Holden

Professor Bill Locke (center) is congratulated on his 35 years of distinguished service by President Jill Board and the VP of Academic Affairs Dr. Corey Marvin.

Faculty Recognizedfor their Investmentin Student Success

At Cerro Coso our full-time faculty is invested in the success of their students. The college recognized the years of service and dedication of CCCC’s faculty during

their professional development day in August. “The longevity and commitment of our faculty makes CCCC strong and contributes to student success,” said Cerro Coso President Jill Board. Those receiving awards this year included: 5 Years of Service: Dennis Jensen, Annette Hodgins, Bob Phung, Pamela Godfrey, and James O’Connor; 10 Years of Service: Karen O’Connor; 20 Years of Service: Christine Abbott; and 35 Years of Service: Bill Locke. “A good teacher is like a candle – it consumes itself to light the way for others.” Congratulations!

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Ooi Brings Expertise and Passion for ScienceMeet Dr. Guck Ooi, the new Associate Professor of Biology at Cerro Coso. Ooi has been teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology classes at the college since 2011 as an adjunct faculty member. Born in Malaysia, Ooi was educated in Australia and has always been interested in science. He spent 10 years as a Research Scientist studying growth and development, and diabetes for the U.S. Government at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. It was there that Ooi met his wife Yoko Murata from Brazil who was working on her Ph.D. at the time. After marrying, the two returned to Australia with their young daughter, where they both worked for six years at the Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research. Friends whom they met in Maryland suggested that they submit a grant together to study molecular markers of infectious diseases, and they were pleasantly surprised when the Department

of Defense approved their grant for both phase I and phase II work. Ooi and his family then moved to Ridgecrest in 2004 to help start a biotech company and to work on projects on antibiotics discovery, malaria, and tuberculosis. Ooi has been teaching on and off in classrooms, labs, and workshops for many years, sharing his expertise and passion for science. “Science applies to everything around us and it is important that students learn to critically evaluate what they read,” he said. Ooi holds a Bachelor’s

and Master’s Degree in Applied Science from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia, a Ph.D. in Protein Chemistry and Endocrinology from Monash University in Australia, and has published over 60 articles in scientific journals. The science of today is the technology of tomorrow – WELCOME Dr. Ooi.

McNair has Big Heart for Education

They say everything’s bigger in Texas and Mike McNair, the new Dean of Instruction for Career Technical Education, brought to Cerro Coso his big heart for education. Heading into his first fall semester at the college, McNair grew up in Austin, Texas. Whether he is training soldiers, church members, or union comrades, McNair has that unique ability to inspire others with enthusiasm, historical facts, and his big sense of humor. He previously served as the Director of Academic Services at Pueblo Community College’s Freemont Campus in Cañon City, Colorado, and prior to that he was the Director of Arts and Sciences at Lamar State College in Orange, Texas. His teaching career started as a Graduate Research Assistant to Dr. Lieu Lee at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He also served as a teaching assistant and graduate part-time History instructor for Texas Tech University, and chaired the History, Economics, and Geography Department at Frank Philips College for five years. “I have a big heart for faculty, and I want to make sure they have all the tools they need to help students succeed” said McNair. From a population of 16,400 in Colorado, McNair moved his wife, Virginia, and mother-

in-law, Celia Holt, to the big city of Ridgecrest, population 28,325. They love their new home and find the community “clean”, free from graffiti, and well maintained. McNair and Virginia have 6 grown children between them, 3 boys and 3 girls, and 10 grandchildren. “Mike is a seasoned educator and his vast leadership experience in the classroom and administration will make him a tremendous asset to the college,” said Cerro Coso President Jill Board. McNair holds a Bachelor’s in Ministry and Southwest Asian History from Southern Christian University, a Master’s in Education in Social Science from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, a Ph.D. ABD in History from Texas Tech University, and is working on his Educational Doctorate from Walden University in Higher Education and Adult Learning. He is also a Reserve Chief Warrant Officer in the State Guard. Cerro Coso welcomes McNair with a great big HOWDY!

Mike McNair, Dean of Instruction for Career Technical Education.

Dr. Guck Ooi, Associate Professor, Biology.

Karnes Returns to the Classroom

Valerie Karnes has traded budgets, endless meetings, and administrative work to return to her first love, teaching. She took the path from classroom to administration and now finds herself right where she wants to be, back in the classroom. It always was Karnes plan to return to teaching and finish out her career

working with the students she enjoys so much. She has worked in a large variety of industries over the past 30 years which have included: manufacturing, research and development, aerospace, retail, and education. At Cerro Coso she began working as an adjunct faculty member in 1994 and became a full-time faculty member in 2001. Most recently, she served as the Dean of Career Technical Education and worked with all the technical programs at the college, writing and managing federal grants. “As a returning faculty member, I am excited about getting back into the classroom, expanding the opportunities for students and watching them grow,” said Karnes. “Education changes lives and I love being a part of the classroom that inspires students academically and professionally.” Now a Professor of Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Business, Karnes spent the summer brushing up on the latest programs and changes in the field. “It’s a different world,” she said. “My six year old granddaughter has been using a Kindle since she was 5. Networking has transformed how people connect, communicate, and collaborate and it is a very exciting field to study,” she concluded. Karnes is teaching five classes this fall and has some interesting partnerships and presentations lined-up for her students. Her passion for teaching reignited, Karnes is in no rush to retire any time soon. She holds a BA in History from the University of California, Davis and a MA in Educational Technology from Pepperdine University. Karnes is a great example of a great teacher who loves teaching others to love learning!

COYOTE HOWLER 3

Valerie Karnes, Professor, Computer Information Systems and Business.

Holy Smokes, Batman, it’sAshley Mills to the RescueMinus the cape and tights, new custodian Ashley Mills brings a fearless attitude, cool weaponry, and secret identity to her crusade against evil living trash cans, prophetic mopping, and a sea of vacuuming. Everyone loves a superhero and Mills has joined forces with our superhuman custodians who save the day by attending to all those details that keep the environment clean and safe for students, teachers, and staff. They possess that special power to make a difference in a really good way. Born and raised in Ridgecrest, Mills has spent many years in electrical and mining. Prior to joining Cerro Coso, she spent 5 years as a heavy equipment driver for a local mine. When asked what one thing others would be surprised to find out about her, she answered “I’m obsessed with comic books and Batman.”

Why Batman? “He’s the one superhero that has lots of money and cool toys. He isn’t a mutant, he didn’t get bit by a spider, and

he doesn’t grow weak in the face of kryptonite,” she quickly responded. Batman’s true powers lie in his wisdom, wealth, physical prowess, deductive abilities, and obsession. Mills and her partner Raquel plan to purchase a house within the next few years and she fully intends to turn her bedroom into a real life batcave. For Mother’s Day this year her children, Jonathon (10) and Lilly (4), bought her a Lego batmobile and Riddler’s ultra-fast dragster and the family spent the day putting them together. Mills loves spending time with her family playing board games, baseball, and of course all things Batman. While she may not possess super-strength or high tech gadgets, she has learned to

recognize the needs of others and steps up to improve the lives of others just like a superhero. Cerro Coso welcomes Ashley with a Wham! Bang! Pow!

Ashley Mills, Custodian.

Brown Retires After 26 Years of ServiceAccess Programs Assistant Sara Brown is one of those faces that just seem to have always been at Cerro Coso. She is retiring after 26 years of service providing access and support to our students with disabilities, and the college is celebrating her efforts and dedication. Brown started taking classes at the college in 1978 and worked in the Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS) Office as a student employee. She graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts in 1983 and took some time off to care for her daughter Jasmine. She returned in 1988 as a part-time Special Services Assistant, and in 2000 her position was made full-time. Throughout her long and devoted career, Brown has greatly enriched the lives of many college students and the campus community. The biggest change she has seen over the years is the difference online education has made in the face-to face interactions with students that were once the heart of the college experience – counseling, tutoring, coaching, assessment, and orientation. “The facilities have morphed, process and rules changed, but the students are the same and that is what I will miss the most about my work,” said Brown. Her favorite time of year is graduation and recalls only having missed two in her 26 years. “It’s so exciting to watch their hearts swell with pride for having overcome their challenges and achieved their dreams. It was a journey they did not walk alone and I am sad that I won’t be a part of that anymore,” she said. “Many Cerro Coso students have benefited from Sara’s insights and rich experience over the years and we are going to miss her,” said President Jill Board. In retirement Brown plans to spend her mornings leisurely enjoying her coffee with no real demands and eventually she and

her husband Bob will explore parts unknown in their travel trailer. They are even hoping to spend some time with their daughter Jasmine, who is living in Hawaii. As this chapter closes in her life, a new one starts, and it is time for Brown to look back with pride and satisfaction on her years at Cerro Coso…and look forward to all the things she’s yet to enjoy. THANK YOU Sara! May your years be filled with all the things you’re looking forward to!

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Sara Brown, ACCESS Programs Assistant retires after 26 years of dedicated service.

Students Help Jump Start the SemesterStarting a new semester of college can be exciting and intense. What could be a cheerier way to start the day than with a hearty breakfast of old-fashioned pancakes hot off the griddle and oozing with syrup? The Student Government of Cerro Coso (SGCC) set out to make sure students at the Ridgecrest campus didn’t start the semester off hungry. Students were greeted in the quad with a FREE pancake breakfast complete with orange juice and hot dogs and soda for lunch on Monday and Tuesday the first week of school. The event provided students a great opportunity to meet and greet one another while answering questions about clubs and resources on campus and assisting with class locations. No matter how you stack it…student success is the goal!

SGCC Officers: Kristiana Ogilvie, Secretary; Cameron La Brie, President; Mark Niezgoda, Event Coordinator; and Tanner Barnett, Finance Manager, serve pancakes to students.

COYOTE HOWLER 5

Huthmacher New A & R TechNew Admissions and Records (A & R) Tech Savannah Huthmacher got her start at Cerro Coso, like many of our staff, as a student worker. While attending classes at the college she served as a student worker in A & R helping students to navigate the admissions process, performing clerical and routine duties while she obtained practical work experience. She transferred to San Diego State University and upon graduation, Huthmacher and her husband Chris moved to Colorado. The two found the harsh cold winters too much to bear, so they returned to the warm desert of Ridgecrest after their daughter Lily (5) was born. Huthmacher spent the last 8 months working in a distant quiet hallway in the accounting department for a local plant. “There just wasn’t enough contact with people for my liking,” she said. “I told my husband that a position in A & R at the college would be the perfect job for me, but nothing ever opens up in A & R. The next day a position in A & R was advertised and it felt like fate. I had to apply.” Huthmacher loves working with the behind-the-scenes people who make it all happen. She enjoys working with college students – providing exceptional service, help, and encouragement as they journey through application, registration, parking, certification, and graduation. “This is a job I can see myself doing for a very long time,” she said. The family enjoys a good adventure and spends their free time off-roading, rock hounding, cycling, and hiking. A 2004 Cerro Coso Community College graduate,

Huthmacher holds an Associate’s Degree in General Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with emphasis in Zoology from San Diego State University. Fate will find a way. WELCOME to Team Cerro Coso.

Savannah Huthmacher, A & R Technician.

Accelerated Program (Continued from Page 1)

it is important that we strive to be the best at what we do. Lives could depend on it.” The two-semester accelerated welding program at Cerro Coso is the result of a TAACCCT grant awarded by the federal government to provide hands-on instruction and workforce development to help students quickly move from training to work in areas that are in high demand. Seven students in the accelerated welding program last semester have found work as a result of the training and certifications they received at Cerro Coso, and the recommendations of their instructor. ‘It’s a quality instructional program,” exclaimed Holden. “I am encouraging my girlfriend and her friends to enroll next semester.” What does his future hold? Only one thing is for sure…Holden will chart his own course in life as a welder.

Champion Takes on New Role at CDCAnnette Champion has been a part of Cerro Coso’s Child Development Center (CDC) for six years, starting out as a student intern. She has served as an Associate Teacher for the past four years. When Jessica Krall vacated her teaching position to become the CDC Manager, Champion applied for, competed, and was given a new role as a teacher in the Pre School working with 3 and 4 year olds. Watching children learn and grow through new experiences is what she enjoys most about her job. Every experience creates a new memory and those memories make her value her job that much more. “I’m a mother and I know how important it is for children and parents

to feel safe and comfortable with the learning environment and the care they receive,” said Champion. She likes the diversity and personalities of the children and parents. “Patience is the key in dealing with the variety of personalities, experiences, and temperaments,” she advised. Champion has two daughters, Maddison (7) and Kylie (11). Together they enjoy swimming, hiking, and spending time outdoors. “A face without freckles is like a sky without stars.” CONGRATULATIONS Annette!

Annette Champion, CDC Teacher.

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The Coyote Howler is a publication of Cerro Coso Community College. For more information about the stories in this publication,

or to include information in this publication, contact Natalie Dorrell, Public Information Manager, at 760.384.6260 or

email ndorrell@cerrocoso.edu.

About this Publication

BAKERSFIELD COLLEGECERRO COSO COLLEGEPORTERVILLE COLLEGE

FOUNDATION FEATURE

Cruise-In Auto ShowIt was time to buckle up seatbelts for an evening of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more at the CCCC Cruise-In Auto Show at the Ridgecrest campus on Saturday, August 23, 2014 in the parking lot of the Raymond A. McCue Athletic Complex. The College teamed up with the High Desert Roadrunners Car and Sidewinder Motor Clubs to bring together auto and motorcycle enthusiasts for showmanship and fun. All makes, models, and years were welcomed. About 75 vehicles in all participated. Food and drinks were provided by the Lady Coyotes Soccer Club. Hot rods, muscle cars, and everything in between, it was a great night to check out the cool rides on a hot night at Cerro Coso. Proceeds will benefit Cerro Coso student athletic programs and clubs.

Photos courtesy of theSidewinder Motor Club of NAWS China Lake

STAR PARTY& ASTRONOMICAL BBQ

P R E S E N T E D BYCERRO COSOCOMMUNITY COLLEGEFOUNDATION, INC.

FRIDAY,SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 ACTIVITIES START 5:30pm

CERRO COSO’S LIBRARYFRONT LAWN

PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE DR. ALEX SHLANTA MEMORIALASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY AND CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

DINNER5:30-7:30 pmGrilled Tri-tip

Sandwich, Salad, Beans, Drink& Dessert

LIVE MUSICTreacherous

Edges

STAR GAZINGStarts When Dark

TICKETS AVAILABLE

CCCCBusiness Office

Red Rock BooksRidgecrest Chamber

of Commerce

$10Per Person

PROCEEDSTO BENEFITDR. ALEX SHLANTA

MEMORIAL ASTRONOMICALOBSERVATORY

&CERRO COSOCOMMUNITY

COLLEGE