HCC salutes the Class of 2016

Excitement and pride. HCC graduates ready to start a new chapter.

HOUSTON– “I made a promise to my mom before she passed away that I would finish my degree and that is why I am here,” said Kelly James, who kept his promise and became one of the 2,650 graduates who participated in the 2016 Houston Community College (HCC) Commencement Ceremony.

Just like James, the journey to this proud moment was filled with obstacles for Joanna Rivas-Nino, who had to be separated from her husband and family while she attended HCC.

“It has been difficult because I am very attached to them,” she said. “It has been difficult to be here by myself but everything has a cost.”

Help was the dominant message of the address Dr. Cesar Maldonado, HCC chancellor delivered to the crowd of about 19,000 family members and guests at NRG Stadium.

“Whether you are a first time graduate or coming back for another degree, if you focus on helping people you are going to have a great career and a great life,” he said.

Chancellor Maldonado’s message was inspired by his own graduation and the experience of seeing his own daughter graduate. For him, each commencement ceremony is unique and uplifting.

“It doesn’t matter how many of these I attend, my message is one of success and hope, dreams and helping others. It is all about people,” said Dr. Maldonado.

Additional words of encouragement came from Houston Texans President Jamey Rootes, who served as keynote speaker.

“Welcome to my house,” Rootes told the excited crowd. “All of you have demonstrated the will to prepare to win in the most important game of all, the game of life. You learn so much in school and now it is time to go out and play it.”

Graduates also heard from the Honorable Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, representing the 18th District of Texas. A champion for education and for HCC, she pointed out that no matter where we come from, we all succeed together.

She stated, “I don’t know the trials and tribulations that you have overcome, but I know that you have gone across the bridge and no one can turn you around.”

In her comments, HCC Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Adriana Tamez thanked the graduates’ families for their support and praised the graduates for achieving a milestone.

“Without your family and friends this day would not be possible. What you are accomplishing is to be admired—it shows you are up for any challenge so don’t let your dreams go by the wayside,” she said. “You have the world at your fingertips, so take hold of it. I want you to be part of the future of this city and country and do all you can to make it a better place.” said Dr. Tamez.

Robert Glaser, HCC Board of Trustees vice chair, presented Honorary Degrees to four individuals for their contributions to the Greater Houston Area. They are Ponnu Pillai, Jesse A. Rodriguez, Gracie Saenz, and Linda Toyota.

Houston Community College (HCC) is composed of 13 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite centers that serve the diverse communities in the Greater Houston area by preparing individuals to live and work in an increasingly international and technological society. HCC is one of the country’s largest singly accredited, open-admission, community colleges offering associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.hccs.edu.

HCC and Houston Texans salute veteran students

HCC Scholarship for Service recipients with Houston Texans Center Tony Bergstrom at the HCC/Houston Texans Salute to Veteran Success at NRG Stadium.

HOUSTON– “Veterans, you have completed the educational race and you have been rewarded with knowledge that no one can take away from you,” said a proud Colonel Kenneth Burton during his keynote address to fellow veterans at the HCC/Houston Texans Salute to Veteran Success event.

The Houston Community College Office of Veteran Affairs recently teamed up with the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium to celebrate the accomplishments of veteran students.

“HCC veteran students have transitioned from the military culture into civilian culture,” said Dr. Cephas Archie, interim director, HCC Office of Veteran Affairs. “That’s the true measure of academic success for Houston Community College.”

Patriotic Cords of Academic Excellence were presented to more than 70 graduates to wear at the 2016 HCC Commencement Ceremony; and through a partnership between the HCC Foundation and the Houston Texans, 17 veteran students received a Houston Texans Scholarship for Service.

Texans Center Tony Bergstrom, whose father and grandfathers served in the Army, Air Force, and Marines, explained the “infatuation” football players have with the military.

“We look up to you because of your selfless service,” said Bergstrom. “You do it for the guy next to you every time. You are a great source of pride to this organization and this country.”

The Houston Texans have given the HCC Foundation more than $200,000 in scholarships for veterans and their dependents. HCC is the only community college in the nation that is an official educational partner with an NFL team.

“We are so grateful to the Houston Texans for your support of the veterans program,” said Dr. Adriana Tamez, chair, HCC Board of Trustees. “This is truly a celebration of the diligence and commitment demonstrated by HCC in our mission to support veterans and our students in pursuit of higher education.”

Scholarship recipient Angela Smith-Duncan recently retired from the U.S. Army after 19 years and is taking business courses.

Smith-Duncan said, “I think it’s amazing that veterans or active duty service members are being recognized like this because it’s an honor.”

“It feels great,” said Rogelio Zapata, a U.S. Navy veteran, who graduated with his degree in Process Technology. “When I completed my last final and got the grades, it was an overwhelming feeling of success. I had a smile from ear to ear for two days. For me it was a long accomplishment.”

HCC Foundation Vice President David Regenbaum delivered the closing remarks and said to the veterans, “This is the foundation that you can use to mold your future and I salute you.”

To learn more about the veterans programs at HCC, visit hccs.edu/veterans and visit hccsfoundation.org for information about the many scholarships offered through the HCC Foundation.

Mayor Turner, community partners unveil first phase of plan to fight human trafficking

Houston's mayot Turner.....“By raising everyone’s awareness about what human trafficking is, we will ensure that reporting human trafficking becomes as natural as reporting a robbery incident to law enforcement. By aggressively combating human trafficking, we are creating a community where everyone’s dignity and basic rights are upheld.” — Houston’s mayor Turner…..“By raising everyone’s awareness about what human trafficking is, we will ensure that reporting human trafficking becomes as natural as reporting a robbery incident to law enforcement. By aggressively combating human trafficking, we are creating a community where everyone’s dignity and basic rights are upheld.”

Mayor Sylvester Turner announced today the release of the first phase of the City’s Anti-Human Trafficking Strategic Plan, a plan which has been dubbed the first comprehensive municipal response in the U.S. by the Polaris Project. It is a collaborative effort between the City of Houston and community partners to fight human trafficking 365 days a year, including around major events like the Super Bowl.

“Human traffickers rob individuals of their dignity and strip victims of their rights and liberties,” said Mayor Turner. “By raising everyone’s awareness about what human trafficking is, we will ensure that reporting human trafficking becomes as natural as reporting a robbery incident to law enforcement. By aggressively combating human trafficking, we are creating a community where everyone’s dignity and basic rights are upheld.”

There are five components to Houston’s plan:

Change public perception
Enhance links to social and legal services for victims
Implement joint initiatives developed by the Mayor’s anti-trafficking task force
Adopt new ordinances and departmental policies, where necessary
Serve as a national model for municipalities around the US and the world

Plan highlights include a partnership with Yellow Cab and Taxis Fiesta, both of which have agreed to send out emails and text messages in English and Spanish to educate their drivers about human trafficking and how to report it. The taxi companies have also agreed to display the City’s new ‘Watch for Traffick’ public awareness campaign on their cabs. Deutser, a local management consulting firm, donated the creative capital to develop the media ads, which will be rolled out in two phases, before and leading up to the Super Bowl.

In Texas, there were 2,035 confirmed cases of human trafficking between December 2007 and June 2015. 717 of those cases originated in Houston. Because this is a crime that often goes unreported, the actual rate of human trafficking may be higher.

The City of Houston offers all interested cities free toolkits for download at www.humantraffickinghouston.org. In conjunction with the Strategic Plan, toolkits can be used to develop a comprehensive municipal approach to addressing human trafficking through policy advocacy, direct outreach, and public awareness campaigns.

Houston recovers with Clay Walker + Friends

Clay has been on the road all year impressing fans and critics alike performing some of his biggest hits including “She Won’t Be Lonely Long,” “What’s It To You?,” “This Woman and This Man,” “If I Could Make A Living” and “Live Until I Die,” as well as testing out new music.

Mayor Sylvester Turner has teamed up with multi-Platinum selling country music star, Clay Walker, and Joel and Victoria Osteen of Lakewood Church, to raise funds and awareness for the Greater Houston Storm Relief Fund – providing donations and financial assistance directly to the residents of our city who are suffering devastating loss from the recent floods. Houstonians are invited to a benefit concert, Friday, May 20 at 8 p.m. at Lakewood Church.

“So many people in our area suffered extreme loss due to these recent floods. Many lost more than possessions – jobs, family members, homes and in some cases their livelihood,” said Mayor Turner. “It is our privilege to come together and help our fellow Houstonians recover. I thank all of the wonderful people who have made this opportunity to help others in a big way possible.”

This benefit concert, headlined by Walker will include a talented line-up of locally and nationally known musicians, celebrities, community leaders and those who care about Houston, will engage and inspire the community to give in a number of ways. Individual donations will grant anyone entrance to the live concert, viewers and others not in attendance will be given the opportunity to give by texting HOUSTON to 91999, sending a check to the Greater Houston Community Foundation/Greater Houston Storm Relief Form; via wire or money transfer and credit card. All details can be found at houstonrecovers.org. Corporations and donors also will be honored for their support in this effort to bring relief to our community.

As a true fan favorite with a devoted legion of followers across the country Clay Walker has sold over 11 million albums; had 11 No. 1 hit singles, four RIAA Platinum and two Gold certified albums, under his belt. “Houston has been home to me for most of my life. It is an honor to help those in need by joining together to heal hearts and repair the structures that shelter so many families who make up the rich fabric of our community,” said Clay Walker. “This is an opportunity to do good and feel good inside by uplifting our neighbors and showing them we care and are willing to share in their struggle as we all rebuild.”

“We are proud of our Lakewood Church staff and volunteers for their efforts helping our fellow Houstonians recover from the recent flooding. We are honored to continue these efforts as a part of Houston Recovers, and look forward to partnering with the Mayor’s office, as well as business, civic, and faith leaders, city relief organizations, and celebrities to raise funds for those who need it most,” said Joel and Victoria Osteen, Pastors of Lakewood Church.

Mayor Sylvester Turner has established The Greater Houston Storm Relief Fund, to accept flood relief donations that will stay in our community. The fund will focus on aiding storm victims “We’ve been hearing from residents who are confused about where they should donate to get assistance directly to the residents of our city who are suffering, said Mayor Turner. “The creation of this fund will ensure the dollars donated stay in our community. The fund will focus on aiding storm victims and relief organizations in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery Counties,” added Turner. He said the fund will be administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF), a 501(c)3 non-profit public charity.

The concert will be broadcast and streamed LIVE on KTRK-ABC13 and SiriusXM Joel Osteen Radio, channel 128, 8-10pm CT, with multiple replays all weekend.

Clay has been on the road all year impressing fans and critics alike performing some of his biggest hits including “She Won’t Be Lonely Long,” “What’s It To You?,” “This Woman and This Man,” “If I Could Make A Living” and “Live Until I Die,” as well as testing out new music. Outside of the stage and studio, Walker is the founder of Band Against MS (BAMS) a non-profit charity that funds MS research and education. Walker established BAMS in 2003 with the goal of helping others living with the same disease he has battled since 1996. To date, BAMS has raised more than 5 million dollars.

Joel and Victoria Osteen are the pastors of Lakewood Church in Houston Texas. America’s largest church with more than 45,000 weekly attendees, Lakewood is also one of the nation’s most diverse. Joel’s weekly television program is viewed by more than 13 million households in the U.S. and millions more in over 100 nations across the globe. For more information go to www.JoelOsteen.com or www.LakewoodChurch.com.

HCC VAST Academy hosts graduation for most students ever

The mission of VAST (Vocational Advancement and Social Skills Training) Academy at HCC is to provide post-secondary transition programs and comprehensive support services leading to meaningful credentials, employment and independence for differently-abled individuals.

HOUSTON, TX – Smiles and applause were the hallmarks of the evening as 40 VAST Academy students made their way across the stage at their 2016 Graduation from Houston Community College (HCC). Each departed the stage with an occupational skills certificate in hand, while parents and family witnessed this major milestone in their lives.

“We are so encouraged by the growth of this program,” said Dr. Cesar Maldonado, HCC chancellor. “Last year 29 students received their diplomas and this year, 40 graduated to the cheers and encouragement of their parents and family.”

The mission of VAST (Vocational Advancement and Social Skills Training) Academy at HCC is to provide post-secondary transition programs and comprehensive support services leading to meaningful credentials, employment and independence for differently-abled individuals.

“I am proud of our college for being a pioneer, one of the first in the nation, to provide post-secondary opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Sue Moraska, program director for VAST. “For 25 years HCC VAST Academy has served well over 3,000 students by providing valuable career readiness training, support services and pathways that lead to employment and greater independence for our students.”

The program began in 1990 and since then has opened the door to opportunities that include vocational certificates, pre-college and freshman success bridge courses, career readiness credentials, internships and employment assistance offered through an inclusive, relevant and affordable environment.

Dr. Maldonado welcomed the students to the ceremony and Kirk White, MSN, RN, director of the HCC School of Continuing Education, delivered the commencement address. Many members of the HCC administration and the Board of Trustees were in attendance. Also present were parents, family and members of the dozens of Houston businesses that support the program by providing internships to the students who are differently-abled.

In his remarks, White said, “The VAST Academy stands as an example of what community colleges are all about … opportunity for all … a place to build upon your abilities and prepare for what’s next in your journey.”

Robert Glaser, vice president of the HCC Board of Trustees, and long-time advocate of the VAST program said, “The most important part of the entire evening was that 40 new graduates walked across the stage – signifying a new beginning for them. HCC is to be congratulated for making this all possible!”

Students such as the two who spoke at graduation, exemplify the can do attitude of VAST. Jonah Ayebae of VAST Central and Jasmine Calderson, of VAST Northwest, are shining examples of the difference VAST has made in the lives of over 3,000 students and their families.

For more information about the HCC VAST Academy, visit hccs.edu/vast.

The Ensemble Theatre Announces Celebration of Its 40th Anniversary “Dawn of a New Decade” 2016-2017 Season

HOUSTON, May 9, 2016 — The Ensemble Theatre and Artistic Director, Eileen J. Morris, announce the 40^th Anniversary season entitled: Dawn of a New Decade that will include one world premiere, three regional premieres, and an audience choice production selected by patrons in a variety of comedies, drama, and musical productions.

“Dawn of a New Decade expresses the pride of The Ensemble Theatre’s history of achievement and sustainability while bringing forth a rejuvenated zeal for the future,” says Morris. “This season lineup is a prism of perspectives on life; the way we respond to the unanticipated, recover from the unfortunate, and navigate unusual or unfamiliar things that help us grow as people….We are also paying homage to two women who paved the way for how we share our music.”

Sassy Mamas, a regional premiere, romantic comedy by Houstonian Celeste Bedford Walker kicks off the season with a little attitude as three friends, women of substance take the reins on their love life and pursue younger men; next is The First Noel, another regional premiere and musical production that follows three generations of family finding restored Christmas joy through an unexpected visitor; following up is a musical commemorating Black History and Women’s History month, Mahalia, a celebration of the life and music of one of the world’s greatest gospel singers, Mahalia Jackson; following next is the audience choice winner voted by The Ensemble Theatre patrons for a revival in the 40^th anniversary line up, a romantic comedy, The Nacirema Society, where the family of an Alabama debutant tries desperately to avoid media mayhem as the appearance of an old flame and the stirring of a young romance unexpected emerge; world premiere comedy/ drama, Front Porch Society brings a whirlwind of emotions to four little old ladies, ready to celebrate the victory of future President Barak Obama as news of a scandal at the local cemetery brings hope to one grieving the untimely loss of her son; and the season finale musical and regional premiere Simply Simone explores the complexities, activism, and talent of jazz virtuoso Nina Simone at pivotal moments of her life.

The Ensemble Theatre and Artistic Director, Eileen J. Morris….. “This season lineup is a prism of perspectives on life; the way we respond to the unanticipated, recover from the unfortunate, and navigate unusual or unfamiliar things that help us grow as people….We are also paying homage to two women who paved the way for how we share our music.” Photo: Meenu Bhardwaj, Freelance — The Ensemble Theatre and Artistic Director, Eileen J. Morris….. “This season lineup is a prism of perspectives on life; the way we respond to the unanticipated, recover from the unfortunate, and navigate unusual or unfamiliar things that help us grow as people….We are also paying homage to two women who paved the way for how we share our music.”
Photo: Meenu Bhardwaj, Freelance

General Auditions for the 2016-2017 Season will be held Friday, July 1 and Saturday, July 2, 2016 at The Ensemble Theatre 3535 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002. For additional information and to schedule an audition appointment contact: Kedrick Brown, Artistic Assistant: theensemblecasting@gmail.com.

The Ensemble Theatre will honor celebrity guests, a rising star artist, and corporate and community supporters for their commitment to advancing the arts, during its Annual Black Tie Gala Weekend, Saturday, August 20, 2016, at the Hilton Americas- Houston. The gala is the largest fundraising event dedicated to the annual support of the theatre. The weekend festivities will culminate in a Community Subscriber’s Celebration Sunday, August 21, 2016.

The theatre’s 15^th Annual Golf Tournament is Tuesday, October 17, 2016 at the Northgate Country Club golf course. The tournament raises funds to support the theatre’s youth and educational initiatives including its touring education, artist in residency, and young performers training program.

The Ensemble Theatre’s variety of youth initiatives include: the Touring Education program, a mini season of children’s theatre available to schools and families; and The Young Performers Program, a performing arts education program that includes week-long sessions during winter and spring breaks, and two month-long regular sessions during the summer.

The Ensemble Theatre Act One Young Professionals, an organization formed five years ago to cultivate the theatre’s next generation of supports, will host a series of networking mixers, including two events in collaboration with other Houston Area young professionals: a February Black History Month Mixer, and an April, National Poetry Month showcase entitled: Drama-try[tree]: A Night of Dramatic Poetry.

The Ensemble Theatre’s 2016-2017 Season Includes:

Sassy Mamas

Regional Premiere

PG-13/ Romantic Comedy/ Some Adult Situations

By Celeste Bedford Walker

Directed by Eileen J. Morris

Previews: September 17, 18, and 21

Opening Night: September 22, 2016

Runs: September 22 – October 16

NAACP Image Award-winning playwright Celeste Bedford Walker brings a delicate touch to her depiction of women of a certain age in her romantic comedy, Sassy Mamas. A story about three women—yes, “cougars”—who confidently pursue younger men. These three friends, women of substance and life achievement, each finding herself in a uniquely single situation and decidedly takes a proactive approach to love. The younger men they’ve set their sights on come with their own unique situations that only add to the humor and antics!

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The First Noel

Regional Premiere

G/ Musical

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Lelund Durond Thompson and Michael Webb

Director and Choreographer Patdro Harris

Musical Direction by Carlton Leake

Previews: November 12, 13, and 16 Opening Night: November 17, 2016 Runs: November 17 – December 30, 2016

Audiences will have to bundle up as they enter this winter wonderland where beloved Christmas carols emerge as dynamic new songs, destined to become holiday favorites for a new generation. The First Noel is a heartwarming musical that follows three generations of a family affected by the tragic loss of a loved one, when an unexpected visit reveals some long-absent Christmas joy. It is a story about how a community is healed, one family at a time, as everyday people do extraordinary things to help one another receive the gift of love at Christmas time.

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Mahalia

Regional Premiere

G/ Musical

By Tom Stolz

Directed by Shirley Marks Whitmore

Previews: January 21, 22, and 25

Opening Night: January 26, 2017

Runs: January 26 – February 26, 2017

A joyous celebration of the life and music of the world’s greatest gospel singer: a humble, deeply religious woman whose expressive, full throated voice carried her from a three room shanty in New Orleans to international fame. The joy and inspiration of her heartfelt songs provide a counterpoint to the urgent messages delivered by her friend, Martin Luther King. Standing at his side, Mahalia Jackson became the musical voice of the civil rights movement. This harmonious tribute includes music by various gospel composers as well as hymns and

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The Nacirema Society

Winner of The Ensemble Theatre Audience Choice Selection PG/ Romantic Comedy/ Revival

By Pearl Cleage

Directed by Eileen J. Morris

Previews: March 18, 19, 21

Opening Night: March 23, 2017

Runs: March 23 – April 16, 2017

Every year since Emancipation, the Nacirema Society of Montgomery, Alabama introduces six elegant African-American debutants to a world of wealth, privilege and social responsibility. This year, at its 100th anniversary, with young love brewing, old flames simmering and national media attention on-hand. . . what would dare to go awry? Pearl Cleage, award winning playwright of Blues for an Alabama Sky and Flyin’ West, and New York Times best-selling author of the Oprah book club selection, What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day, invites you into this glamorous world where folks still dress for dinner. A sparkling romantic comedy!

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Front Porch Society

World Premiere

PG/ Comedy/ Drama

By Melda Beaty

Directed by Eileen J. Morris

Previews: May 6, 7, 10

Opening Night: May 11, 2017

Runs: May 11 – June 4, 2017

It’s November 4, 2008 in Marks, Mississippi, and America is on the eve of electing its first black president. But what does that mean to four elderly women in this rural town, especially Carrie Honey, the town’s “overseer,” as she grieves the anniversary of her son’s tragic death amidst the town’s excitement over Barack Obama. After years of failed attempts to seek justice, Carrie has grown bitter and no longer interested in life’s celebrations, until a scandal at the cemetery rocks this historic day, and a past secret is revealed that somehow restores her faded faith.

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Simply Simone Regional Premiere

PG/ Play with Music

Written by Robert Neblett and David Grapes

Musical Arrangement by Vince diMura

Director & Choreographer Patdro Harris

Musical Direction by Carlton Leake

Previews: June 24, 25, 28

Opening Night: June 29, 2017

Runs: June 29 – July 30, 2017

Nina Simone, from child prodigy; jazz superstar; civil rights activist; to political exile was one of the true divas of the 20th century and a genuine musical powerhouse; she defined a generation and defied classification. Her silky, soulful, and untamed, voice will put a spell on you. She’ll melt your heart; she’ll chill you to the bone. Simply Simone crosses genres from gospel to blues to Broadway to rock and roll, and features such definitive Simone classics as “I Loves You Porgy,” “The Look of Love,” “My Baby Just Cares for Me,” “To Be Young, Gifted, and Black” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.”

For information regarding subscriptions, tickets, group sales, and other theatre programing call The Ensemble Theatre Box Office: 713-520-0055 or visit www.EnsembleHouston.com.

The Ensemble Theatre was founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins to preserve African American artistic expression and to enlighten, entertain, and enrich a diverse community. Thirty-eight years later, the theatre has evolved from a small touring company to one of Houston’s finest historical cultural institutions.

The Ensemble is one of a few professional theatres in the region dedicated to the production of works portraying the African American experience. The oldest and largest professional African American theatre in the Southwest, it holds the distinction of being one of the nation’s largest African American theatres owning and operating its facility and producing in-house. The late Board President Emeritus Audrey Lawson led the capital campaign for The Ensemble’s $4.5 million building renovations that concluded in 1997. The Ensemble Theatre has fulfilled and surpassed the vision of its founder and continues to expand and create innovative programs to bring African American theatre to myriad audiences.

The People’s Club in Houston honors moms with surprise night ball – Spectacular photos

The joy of motherhood spreads all over North America as citizens celebrate the Mother’s Day Sunday today, May 5 2016. In Houston, The People’s Club of Nigeria International, an affluent Nigerian-based social club known for sophistication, charity, community support, and outreach treated their women to a night of love, honor, and happiness to mark the celebration. In attendance were; PCNI’s Patron and wife, Nze Dr. and Lolo Vincent Nwabeke; the Chairman and wife, Chief-Sir and Chief-Mrs. Nnanyelugo Obinna Mbachu; officials, and members of the club. These spectacular photos were recorded.

Houston: The People’s Club of Nigeria’s Mother’s Day Reception

How HCC-trained welders boost Houston’s workforce

HCC trains the next generation of welders in high demand by diverse industries in the Greater Houston Area.

Skilled welders play a critical role in the manufacturing and maintenance of structures that require metallic components. In Houston, the recent increase in residential and commercial construction and the doubling in size of the Port of Houston have resulted in a high demand for qualified welders. Through its diverse educational programs for welding, Houston Community College is responding to the industry needs for qualified welders and fulfilling a critical need in the workforce.

Rhoderick Villanueva enrolled in the HCC welding program in 2009. Although he was employed as a welder at the time, he earned only $30,000 a year because of his limited skills.

“I went to HCC to learn multiple processes,” Villanueva said. “HCC makes the tools available. They give you hands-on training and everything you need.”

Villanueva now earns $70,000 a year.

Villanueva’s story reflects the experience of thousands of workers in the energy sector who saw their income potential affected as a result of low oil prices and the subsequent decrease of offshore drilling. The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers reports that Texas has lost approximately 84,000 oil and gas jobs in the past 16 months. Yet the need for welders remains high as a result of the booming raise of residential and commercial construction. A survey by the Associated General Contractors of America found that seventy-four percent of Texas construction companies say they are having a hard time finding hourly craft workers, including trained welders.

According to HCC welding instructor Frank Alderete, an entry level welder can earn $18-20 an hour—more than double the federal minimum wage, but many HCC students graduate beyond entry level and earn even more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% job growth for welders to continue through 2020.

Tom Tynan, Director of Construction & Trades, HCC Continuing Education says that the welding field is changing with more women interested in taking classes. Currently only three percent of U.S. professional welders are women, but Tynan expects that to change given the high pay and the growing need for skilled workers.

Some HCC welding certification programs don’t require applicants to have a high school diploma.

“If you can read and write at a ninth grade level, we can train you,” Tynan said.

To learn about the welding programs offered at HCC, visit hccs.edu/continuingeducation and click Welding or call the Continuing Education Department at 713-718-8932

Houston Community College (HCC) is composed of 13 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite centers that serve the diverse communities in the Greater Houston area by preparing individuals to live and work in an increasingly international and technological society. HCC is one of the country’s largest singly-accredited, open-admission, community colleges offering associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.hccs.edu.

Hobby Airport earns 4 stars in international airport ratings

Skytrax made special mention of Hobby’s free Wi-Fi service, deeming it among the best the rating organization has experienced at any airport — the terminal coverage includes parking garages and terminal aprons for boarding/arrival, and connection speeds are consistently good.

HOUSTON — The stars are aligning for William P. Hobby Airport — all four of them, according to the latest ratings in a respected air travel review website.

Skytrax, recognized as a leading global air transport rating organization, gave Hobby Airport a 4-star rating for 2016, making it one of just three airports in the United States to earn a 4-star rating, while adding that “this is an airport with potential to build on the existing facilities to offer an experience that is truly special and closer to a 5-star quality level.”

“Hobby Airport truly is a jewel and for decades has played a vital role in the continued growth and success story here in Houston,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “Its future remains bright, thanks in part to the opening of the beautiful new international concourse facility last year, and now with this recognition of the airport’s level of commitment to excellence and service we are confident that Hobby Airport and the Houston Airport System will continue to soar into the future.”

World Airport Rating is the international airport quality ranking program operated by Skytrax. Ratings are determined through direct and professional analysis of industry quality standards. The Airport Star Ratings are recognized as a global benchmark of airport standards.

“One of our main goals is to provide customers at all of the Houston Airport System facilities with a 5-star experience, and these latest ratings show that our efforts and focus are on the right track,” said Mario Diaz, the Director of Aviation for the Houston Airport System. “We have made important strides in enhancing customer service, returning our assets to opening day fresh condition, and striving to provide the level of overall excellence that our customers deserve and demand.”

Hobby Airport achieved 4-star ratings across many of the core rating categories assessed by Skytrax, and most importantly is described as an “efficient” airport. Overall, Hobby received a four-star or better rating in 24 different categories.

The terminal design means walking distances are short and passenger movement to the gates and around the various terminal facilities is easy. While the airport is subject to the same TSA regulations as other U.S. airports, Skytrax found the timing and quality of processing is in fact a well-managed service area, particularly when assessed against other U.S. airports.

See complete listing of 4-star airports

See complete listing of 3-star airports

See complete listing of all airports and the ratings, in alphabetical order

Architecturally, the terminal design means the main departure areas benefit from lots of natural daylight. While this is generally a subconscious element of the customer experience, it has a positive impact on the overall airport rating. Skytrax also called out Hobby’s “impressive” public art program, and cited its Harmony in the Air performing arts program as a “fantastic added value” for customers.

Skytrax made special mention of Hobby’s free Wi-Fi service, deeming it among the best the rating organization has experienced at any airport — the terminal coverage includes parking garages and terminal aprons for boarding/arrival, and connection speeds are consistently good.

For an airport the size of Hobby, dining is a particularly strong point — the layout, selection and quality of the dining options is excellent and there is a strong focus on both national and local Texan brands.

In 2015, for the sixth straight year, Hobby Airport saw an increase in passenger traffic, eclipsing the 12 million mark for the first time. Over the course of the past decade, passenger totals at Hobby have increased by more than 50 percent, while the number of destinations available through nonstop flights has almost doubled, moving from about 30 to more than 60 cities. A large part of that continued growth was the opening of a new $156 million concourse, including a state-of-the-art Federal Inspection Facility to accommodate the return of international air service at Hobby Airport for the first time in nearly 50 years.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport maintained its 3-star status in 2016, but the audit report noted that “the actual customer experience is in fact meeting a 3.5-star quality level when the rating results are assessed across the broad spectrum of audit criteria,” and that several areas “meet (or exceed) 4-star standards.” It also noted that Bush Intercontinental “will be performing closer to a 4-star quality on completion of some the committed projects during 2016.”

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