Austin Community College (ACC) invites prospective students and their families to learn about high-skilled careers and training opportunities at the ninth annual Applied Tech Open House 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 12, at Round Rock Campus, Building 5000 (4400 College Park Dr., Round Rock).

“The community depends on well-trained professional technicians for their homes, cars, and offices. People will always need their cars repaired and their HVAC systems maintained,” says Brandon Whatley, ACC Design, Manufacturing, Construction & Applied Technologies dean. “This is a good opportunity for anyone interested in a career in skilled trades to get an inside look at the jobs in our community and the training we provide.”

Visitors will tour the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, view live demonstrations, test their skills on advanced technologies, and network with major industry companies in Austin.

“The Austin Chamber partners with organizations like Austin Community College to help Austin-ites receive the education and training they need so they can start or advance their careers and earn more money,” says Drew Scheberle, Austin Chamber of Commerce senior vice president of education. “The open house is a great way to experience the amazing range of reasonably priced options at ACC for training.”

Careers in skilled professions are among the fastest-growing in the region. According to local market data, more than 3,3300 people are currently employed in construction management. This number is expected to rise more than eight percent over the next four years. Employment in Computer Aided Design drafters and designers is projected to increase approximately nine percent and employment in welding is expected to rise nearly 10 percent on average.   

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended, but not required.

For more information or to register, visit austincc.edu/appliedtech.