Norwich Tech Talk: Students Excel at National Skills Competition
September 18, 2017
Now in college, Norwich Technical High School graduate Kevin Vasquez placed first in Automotive Service Technology at Skills USA Nationals.
Matt Novick, a senior plumber at Norwich Tech, explains what No. 2 in Skills USA Nationals entails:
“I took first at States, scoring 117 out of 120 points. Skills USA Nationals were in Kentucky June 20 to 24. Each state sent one plumbing student. I represented Connecticut. Contestants roughed in a half bath and a laundry room. This consisted of cast iron drains, PVC vents, copper water supply and a Zoeller Pump Basin Sewage Ejector tied in. Students had eight hours. I was one of a few to complete the bathroom and trim out the sink on the well. I scored 925 of 1000. I received industry tools and prizes.
“Special thanks to Carpentry Department head John Kelly, Auto Department head Peter Fiasconaro for being the trip advisers and Plumbing Department head Chip Pember and plumbing teacher Dan Trehy.”
Students get laptops
Norwich Tech students received Chromebooks for all four school years at home and school. By providing each student with a laptop computer, we are making sure that each student has access to educational software used by the teachers.
Google Classroom is an internet-based program that lets teachers electronically post assignments and share handouts, videos, etc. Students complete their assignments using software on their computer and submit their work back to the teacher.
ALEKS math program began our district’s shift to mastery-based learning. Using their laptop computers, math instruction and student learning becomes highly individualized. Each student progresses at their own pace until they demonstrate mastery in Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry. Students receive personalized instruction from their math teacher.
Dining room open
Norwich Tech Culinary Arts dining room is now open to the public for lunch service daily between 10:45 and noon. Walk-ins are accepted, however reservations are preferred. Please bring cash or a check, credit cards aren’t accepted. The restaurant offers a variety of entrees from soups and salads to a four-course meal. Orders can be called in for pickup service. The Culinary Department and bakery do outside catering on a pickup basis only. The bakery provides tasty treats to the restaurant as well as the public. Call for birthday and specialty cakes along with cookies, brownies and other delicious sweets.
On-the-job training
Student Workforce is a business run by students and faculty at the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System. They offer a wide range of services to the public at a cheaper price. Sixty-five Norwich Tech students were involved in the Student Workforce last year. To schedule a service from any of our Student Workforce Departments, please submit an application.
What is work-based learning? It enhances the career technology experience that a student receives in the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System. Juniors and seniors are provided with real world work experience and responsibilities.
