Feature Story Archives

Male Engagement Center Grand Opening is Oct 2

Congratulations, Dr. Broxson!

A beautiful duet

We’re pleased to welcome Dr. James Neblett!

Career Conference Returns

Jesus Villegas newest CPTC trustee

Passion for policy and advocacy sets CPTC student on new course

CPTC celebrates grand opening of MOSAIC Center

2nd Annual Scramble FORE Students

Good luck, Class of 2022!

Free Mobile Dental Clinic Coming to CPTC

Microsoft Cybersecurity Scholarship Program Announced

New fast-track Pharmacy Technician program begins Summer 2021

Bachelor of Applied Science degrees meet need for high-demand jobs

CPTC Dental Assistant Faculty Discusses Education and Industry Changes During Pandemic

Dental Assistant instructor Hannah Precour presented to the Tacoma South Rotary Club via Zoom on April 12, detailing the changes in the program at CPTC and in the dental industry to respond to COVID-19.

Governor Inslee Confirms Alice Phillips as CPTC Board Trustee

CPTC is pleased to announce that Governor Jay Inslee has confirmed Alice Phillips as the newest member of the Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees.

CPTC Welding Students Receive WABO Scholarships

Congratulations to CPTC Welding Technology Program students Jose Bazan Jr. and Angel Esparza, recipients of Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) Welder Program Scholarships for Winter 2021.

Reygers Path to Success Began with Technical Education

"One of the biggest benefits of a technical education is that you learn from people that have been where you want to go." —Ryan Reygers

Chris Lewis Retires after 41 Years at CPTC

Our Commitment to our Diverse Communities

Cooking for a Cause! – CPTC Foundation’s 14th Annual Scholarship Celebration kicks off with live international cooking classes

Clover Park Technical College Foundation is holding its 14th Annual Scholarship Celebration virtually. The virtual event will include a week-long silent auction from October 13-20, a virtual raise the paddle, and a choice of three live cooking classes taught by international chefs around the world, all to support scholarships and emergency assistance through the Foundation.

Lowe’s Donates $17,000 Worth of Masks

Clover Park Technical College Foundation accepts just a handful of in-kind donations. But this call was different: the Bonney Lake Lowe’s wanted to deliver 2,000 KN95 masks to Clover Park students.

Third Annual Trek for Tech goes Virtual

A global pandemic couldn’t stop the CPTC Foundation from running the third annual Trek for Tech 5K

CARES Act funds will help technical college students afford school

Thinking Outside the Box, CPTC Faculty Make Hands-On Programs Accessible for Online Learning 

Model of Excellence: Clover Park Technical College Advisory Committee

As a vital member of Washington's higher-education system, Clover Park Technical College (CPTC) offers courses online and on campus for students getting ready for their first career, their next step within their career or new careers.

Class of 2020 Crosses the Finish Line

For two hours, a steady stream of 400 graduates honked and beeped their way through campus. Perimeter Drive was lined with over 100 faculty and staff, who cheered until they were hoarse, shook pompoms, blew thousands of bubbles, clanged hundreds of cowbells, and waved signs of good wishes to carloads of joyful people. 

A New Take on the CPTC All-College Celebration

Clover Park Technical College hosted an end-of-year celebration event the afternoon of Tuesday, June 16 to recognize the achievements of the 2019-2020 academic year and to honor staff and faculty award winners.

VP of Instruction Mabel Edmonds Retires from CPTC

After 15 years at Clover Park Technical College, Mabel Edmonds retired as Vice President of Instruction on April 30, 2020.

Helping students in need through COVID-19

When faced with the reality that Washington state’s stay-at-home order was going to last for weeks or months, the CPTC Foundation immediately ramped up efforts to secure as much emergency funding as possible.

Expanding Access to Hemodialysis: Interview With an Expert in Home-Based Care

Home hemodialysis does have better outcomes because they are able to dialyze more frequently in shorter segments instead of having the big up-and-down spikes and constant blood pressure drop—and the toxins building up. -Ken Markovits, Hemodialysis Instructor at Clover Park Technical College (CPTC)

Mechatronics Students Vie for SICK TiM $10K Challenge

Clover Park Technical College's Submission to the 2020 SICK TiM $10K Challenge. The application is a 3D machine vision application from the combination of a 2D SICK TiM sensor with a 6 axis UR robotic arm.

Dr. Tawny Dotson Chosen for National Presidential Fellowship for Community College Leaders

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program today announced that Dr. Tawny M. Dotson, Vice President for Instruction at Clover Park Technical College, is one of 40 leaders selected for the 2020-21 class of the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship, a highly selective leadership program preparing the next generation of community college presidents to transform institutions to achieve higher and more equitable levels of student success.

The Power of Partnerships During COVID-19

When a family emergency brought a medical services team to her home in mid-March, Myra Griffin was stunned to see them arrive wearing eye protection and gloves, but not disposable face masks or gowns.

Alumnus Soars with Bachelor’s in Operations Management

With two programs under his belt at Clover Park Technical College, alumnus Josh Myron is blazing forward with continued higher education and career advancement.

Endowment Carries on Masons’ Commitment to Education

A generous gift from Tacoma’s Lincoln Park Masonic Lodge #80 will provide unending help for Clover Park Technical College students in need.

Andy Osborne revved up his career with CPTC automotive programs

Osborn was reassured early on that CPTC was a good fit for his educational needs and setting himself up for career success. He was appreciative of not only the expansive automotive knowledge his instructors were able to provide and their emphasis on being detail-oriented, but also their support of career development overall.

Two Clover Park Students Accepted to 2020 All-Washington Academic Team

Two Clover Park Technical College students have been accepted to the 2020 All-Washington Academic Team.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Willie’s family recently gave a gift of $55,000 to create the Earl C. “Willie” Williamson Memorial Scholarship Endowment, available to students enrolled full time in the CPTC upholstery program who intend to work in automotive upholstery or related vehicle customizing fields.

Elizabeth Bock to Go from the Evergreen State to the Emerald Isle

Elizabeth Bock took her time as a Running Start student seriously. She truly got a “running start” into her new career and will pursue higher education abroad.

Clover Park Technical College Welcomes New Foundation Board President

The Clover Park Technical College Foundation welcomed Lori Banaszak as the newly-elected board president effective January 1, 2020.

CPTC Confirms Partnership for New Apprenticeship Programs

Late last month, Clover Park Technical College enhanced its apprenticeship training network through a partnership with the SEIU Healthcare 1199NW Multi-Employer Training and Education Fund.

Carol Mitchell Appointed to Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees

This week, Governor Jay Inslee confirmed Carol Mitchell as the newest member of the Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees. Carol is the senior counsel for Justice Services for the Pierce County Executive's Office. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Washington, a Master of Arts in Organizational Systems Renewal from Seattle University, and a Juris Doctor from Seattle University School of Law.

Recognized CPTC Alum Brings Her Passion to Her Classroom

When Kitti Wheeler was considering her college options while in high school, she felt like her world was full of possibilities, her passionate spirit led her down a multitude of paths, each with its own adventure waiting to behold. One of these paths brought her to a passion that has become a part of her successful profession today. In 1978, Kitti completed her certificate in Retail Management at Clover Park Technical College.

Clover Park Technical College Unveils State of the Art Campus Fitness Center

Late last month, CPTC’s Department of Student Life officially opened its first Fitness Center available to students, faculty and staff. Nearly 100 members of the CPTC community were in attendance to celebrate this momentous occasion, one that required a community effort to make a reality. The expansive 1,500 square foot Fitness Center, located inside the campus’s Student Center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that can be utilized by a breadth of abilities and experiences, from the quintessential treadmills and free weights to the trendier spin bikes and row machines.

Grand Opening of The John W. Walstrum Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology

On Sept. 20, Clover Park Technical College hosted the grand opening ceremony for its long-awaited addition to the campus. The John W. Walstrum Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology building was celebrated by more than 200 people. In attendance were community partners, CPTC staff and faculty as well as John Walstrum’s family. His wife Penny Walstrum and his sons John and Michael came together with their community to celebrate John and the building named in his honor.

John Schell Clover Park Alumni and Instructor for Aviation Maintenance

John Schell has been a longtime fixture at Clover Park Technical College. Even to this day, he is a regular visitor to the South Hill campus, where he watches the planes take off and land on the tarmac. Schell spent his early years as a pilot and mechanic rooted at Clover Park.  When he was in tenth grade, Schell already owned and flew his own plane. It was his hope of obtaining his own aviation maintenance license that drew him to the program at Clover Park. In 1954 he graduated with an airframe and power plant license, and from there he continuously dedicated his life to his passion to aviation.

CPTC Holds First Latino Exploration Day

On August 10 at the McGAvick Conference Center on Clover Park Technical College’s Lakewood Campus, the Outreach and Entry Services Team held its first ever Latino Exploration Day for current and potential students. Planned and organized by Micalah Peiper and Sandy Mondragon, the event was created to help potential Latino students get an idea of the resources available through CPTC and how to help them start, continue, and finish their education while minimizing barriers. This event couldn’t have come at a better time. With recent events impacting the Latino community, it was more important than ever for CPTC to provide a safe space where potential students from all walks of life could feel welcomed and to flourish in their chosen pathway.

Clover Park Technical College Hires First Executive Director for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

On August 1, Shareka Fortier-Edwards, CDP, began her role as Clover Park Technical College’s first executive director for equity, diversity and inclusion. Fortier-Edwards is joining the CPTC community from MultiCare Health System, where she led the system’s cultural competency in equity and diversity efforts. Earlier this year, she was one of South Sound Business’s “40 Under 40” and has been featured by 425 Business for her work in diversity and inclusion.

Clover Park Instructor Makes Music for His Community

Rocky Sandoval has been a fixture at Clover Park Technical College since 2009 where he started his career as a note taker for students with disabilities. He was diligent in sitting with them during their classes and assisting with their studies. It was during this time that he began tutoring one-on-one and saw himself serving in a larger capacity in student lives. In 2015 he began teaching ESL students and the Adult Basic Education classes. He has consistently engaged with students and left a lasting impression that reaches further than his role as an instructor at Clover Park Technical College.

Honoring Andy Fritz in the 2nd Annual Trek for Tech 5k

It was a bittersweet event that brought together over 260 runners, 70 of which were CPTC students, who all participated in the Second Annual Andy Fritz Memorial Trek for Tech 5k Race July 28 at Clover Park Technical College’s Lakewood Campus. It was the perfect way to continue honoring a long-time Clover Park Technical College faculty member, Andy Fritz the previous instructor for the Environmental Sciences & Technology program.

Clover Park Rotary Club Works With Graphic Technology Program for a New Logo

As the area’s largest source for fresh and new design talent, the students at Clover Park Technical College’s Graphic Technologies program were offered an exciting task. They were approached by the Clover Park Rotary Club and asked to design their new logo, which would be used for their marketing materials including letterheads, brochures, website, and across their social media platforms.

Scramble Fore Students Raises Over $20,000 for CPTC Students

Always one to find exciting ways to engage the community, the Clover Park Technical College Foundation is making fundraising fun while raising vital resources needed to support the college and its students. Most recently was the Scramble Fore Students Golf Tournament held at the High Cedars Golf Course in Orting Washington on July 13, 2019.

Year-End Celebration Recognizes Staff and Faculty Excellence

Clover Park Technical College’s Guided Pathways team hosted an end-of-year celebration event Tuesday afternoon to recognize the achievements of the 2018-19 academic year and honor staff and faculty award winners.

Morell Carries CPTC Lessons Into Business and Politics

It’s been more than 40 years, but Pierce County Councilmember Dave Morell still credits Clover Park Technical College with teaching him the key lessons that have guided his life and many careers since. He’s used those lessons to provide an impact to Pierce County both in politics and private life that warranted selection as the college’s 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.

Students, Staff, and Faculty Honored at Annual Awards Ceremony

Over nearly a decade, the Student Awards Ceremony has established a tradition of recognizing excellence among students, staff, and faculty at Clover Park Technical College. That tradition continued Wednesday evening at the seventh annual Student Awards Ceremony.

Graduating Veterans Recognized at Honor Cord Ceremony

With the conclusion of the academic year quickly approaching, the Clover Park Technical College Veterans Resource Center recognized graduating veterans at its annual Veteran Honor Cord Ceremony and Open House.

Alumni Award Winner Takes to the Skies

Some people spend their whole lives trying to figure out what they want to do for a career. Not Adam Carollo.

Environmental Sciences Alumni Award Winner Promotes Sustainable Living

Clover Park Technical College had been a part of Cathy Hamilton-Wissmer’s life long before she decided to enroll in the Environmental Sciences & Technology program in 2009. Eight years after graduating, she continues to make the college a key part of her life.

AED Alumni Award Winner Looks to Give Back to CPTC

Nearly 30 years ago Clover Park Technical College’s Architectural Engineering Design program provided the education Geoff Waits needed to begin the career he wanted. Since that time, he’s worked to make sure that program continues to have a similar impact for students going forward.

CPTC Announces Brig. Gen. Jeremy Horn as Commencement Speaker

Brig. Gen. Jeremy C. Horn, the commander of the Washington Air National Guard, will deliver the commencement address at Clover Park Technical College’s 2019 graduation.

Transitional Studies Instructor Awarded Tenure

The Clover Park Technical College’s Board of Trustees concluded its May meeting last week by awarding tenure to Transitional Studies faculty member Diane Follett.

CPTC Students Celebrate Nurses Week with Massages

The nurses at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tacoma received some hands-on personal care of their own last Wednesday as the Clover Park Technical College Massage Studies program offered on-site massages to celebrate National Nurses Week.

Human Services Alumni Award Winner Finds Joy Assisting Local Students

For Kellie Kirkpatrick-Jacobs, Clover Park Technical College offered an opportunity to pursue a passion for helping people and turn it into career. Her impact as a behavior therapist in the community has prompted recognition, as she was selected as a recipient of CPTC’s 2019 Alumni of Distinction Award.

Architectural Engineering Design Instructor Receives Honor

Clover Park Technical College Architectural Engineering Design instructor Poppy Bushnell received special recognition last week when she was presented with a President’s Citation from the Northwest Region Construction Specification Institute.

Medical Assistant Program Joins the Osaka Jikei Cultural Exchange

It’s become a tradition over more than 10 years for Clover Park Technical College to welcome students from Japan’s Osaka Jikei College, but now that tradition is expanding as CPTC’s Medical Assistant program served as hosts for the first time to a group of 40 students last week.

Foundation Scholarship Dinner Honors Donors and Students

More than 150 guests gathered in Clover Park Technical College’s McGavick Conference Center last week for the 13th Annual Scholarship Celebration Dinner, as scholarship recipients and donors shared their stories and raised $50,000 to help support CPTC students in the future.

Former College Football Star Shares Experiences with High School Students

The Northwest Career & Technical High School success class welcomed a special guest Monday when professional quarterback Vernon Adams, Jr., came to speak about overcoming adversity and the work it takes to achieve your goals.

Pharmacy Tech Alum Finds Home at Local Hospital

A lot has changed in Clover Park Technical College’s Pharmacy Technician program over the last 15 years, but one thing that hasn’t is the dedication of the instructors to providing the best opportunities for their students.

CPTC Student Leader Selected for Prestigious Scholarship

Since first coming to campus at Clover Park Technical College, Alexandra Haley has been a key member of the student community in both Associated Student Government and the Dental Assistant program. Her hard work has led to several honors, and the biggest came as she completed the program last month when she was selected as a 2019 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar.

CPTC Foundation Set to Host Scholarship Celebration Dinner

The Clover Park Technical College Foundation will recognize its 2018-19 scholarship recipients and donors at its annual Scholarship Celebration Dinner.

CPTC Team Competes at Cyber Defense Competition

With the threat of cyber attacks always growing in our world, the need for prepared cyber security professionals is greater than ever. Last weekend, a group of eight Clover Park Technical College Computer Networking & Information Systems Security Students had the opportunity to put their skills and learning to the test in a simulated cyber attack at the Pacific Rim Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (PRCCDC).

Board of Trustees Awards Tenure to Three CPTC Faculty Members

Clover Park Technical College’s March Board of Trustees meeting concluded with the Board awarding tenure to Jay Lanphier, Michael Smith, and Jennifer Weinmann.

Interior Design Students Showcase Portfolios

Clover Park Technical College’s Interior Design program showcased the work of its students Wednesday at its Winter Portfolio Exhibition in the McGavick Conference Center.

Two CPTC Students Receive All-Washington Academic Honor

A pair of Clover Park Technical College students were honored as members of the 2019 All-Washington Academic Team Thursday in a lunch ceremony at South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia.

Mobile Food Bank Comes to CPTC’s Lakewood Campus

Rescheduled Winter Fest Features Fun and a Food Drive

Perhaps the event name was more fitting this year, as Clover Park Technical College’s Associated Student Government hosted its rescheduled annual Winter Fest last week after the snow days last month forced its previous postponement.

Cosmetology Joins Boys & Girls Club For Girls’ Night

A group of Clover Park Technical College Cosmetology students took their skills to the Lakewood Boys & Girls Club for a Girls’ Night event Friday evening.

Alumni Love Story Began at Clover Park

Clover Park Technical College strives to change students’ lives through workforce training and preparation, but often students meet lifelong friends and sometimes even meet their future spouse. For Geoff and Tara Waits, that’s exactly what happened.

Morgan Recognized at Transforming Lives Dinner

Clover Park Technical College alum Heather Morgan was recognized as the college’s Transforming Lives Award honoree at the Washington State Association of College Trustees’ annual Transforming Lives Awards Dinner on Monday, Jan. 21.

CPTC Helped Prepare Alum for Doctorate Success

Ten years ago this month, Benjamin Craighill started Clover Park Technical College’s Pharmacy Technician program unsure if he had what it takes to succeed in college.

CPTC Continues Aviation Partnership with Chinese University

Clover Park Technical College welcomed a delegation from Civil Aviation Flight University of China this week as the two colleges commemorated the 10th anniversary of an international partnership and signed a memorandum of understanding to continue working together.

Eli Taylor Appointed to CPTC Board of Trustees

The Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees will welcome a new member at its January meeting, as Eli Taylor has been appointed to a five-year term by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee.

Moss Reflects On 20 Years of Service to CPTC

Clover Park Technical College trustee Mary Moss has spent nearly 20 years serving the college community on the CPTC Foundation Board and the CPTC Board of Trustees. As she concludes her time on the Board of Trustees, she remembers some of the highlights of her tenure.

Welding Students Create Fantasy Lights Display

Holiday lights rank among the most visible traditions on display at this time of year, and Clover Park Technical College’s Welding program joined the festivities by contributing their skills to this year’s Fantasy Lights at Spanaway Park.

CPTC Recognizes LPN Graduates at Pinning Ceremony

As the 2018 fall quarter came to a close Wednesday, the Clover Park Technical College Nursing program hosted its traditional Licensed Practical Nurse Pinning Ceremony to recognize the 20 students earning their Practical Nursing Certificate.

Holiday House Provides Gifts for Student Families

Holiday spirit filled the air Thursday afternoon as Santa Claus arrived in Building 23 and Clover Park Technical College’s annual Holiday House distributed gifts to student families.

Baskets Provide Students Food for Thanksgiving Feast

One of the primary Thanksgiving traditions involves large quantities of food, and for the second straight year Clover Park Technical College’s Office of Student Life put together food baskets to ensure students have what they need for a traditional turkey dinner.

CPTC Hosts Annual Diversity & International Fair

Clover Park Technical College’s McGavick Conference Center featured an eclectic mix of cultural displays, artifacts, and performances Tuesday as the college hosted its fifth annual Diversity & International Fair.

CPTC Honors Veterans at Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

Between its location down the street from Joint Base Lewis-McChord and its origins teaching industry skills to help the World War II effort, Clover Park Technical College has always had a close relationship with the United States Armed Forces. That continued on Wednesday, Nov. 8, as the college hosted its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the McGavick Conference Center, sponsored by CPTC’s Associated Student Government.

Students Enjoy Pumpkins and Activities at Fall Fest

An eclectic display of pumpkins and costumes welcomed students to the Clover Park Technical College Associated Student Government’s annual Fall Fest event on Wednesday.

Remote Control Cars Provide AI Training Opportunity

Who says only kids can play with remote-controlled cars? For a group of Clover Park Technical College Computer Programming students, that timeless childhood activity has provided a new opportunity to experiment with artificial intelligence.

CPTC’s Hayes Center Receives Grant to Support Low-Income Parents

The United States Department of Education announced that Clover Park Technical College has been selected to receive funding to support child care efforts for low-income parents under the Child Care Access Means Parents In School program (CCAMPIS).

Prospective Students Sample CPTC’s Offerings at Program Expo

Clover Park Technical College faculty and staff showed off the college’s programs and resources to more than 240 visitors at the college’s Fall Program Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 10, at the McGavick Conference Center.

Manufacturing Day Provides Hands-On Opportunities for Students

As one of Clover Park Technical College’s seven schools, Advanced Manufacturing is a key component of the college’s offerings. The college had the opportunity to showcase those programs at its annual Manufacturing Day event on Friday, Oct. 5, with 500 local high school students in attendance to learn about the possibilities of a career in manufacturing.

Pastry Arts Alum Explores Creativity with Chocolate

Many people love chocolate, but few take that passion to the level of Mollie Stewart. Stewart, a 2014 Clover Park Technical College Pastry Arts alum, uses chocolate to make beautiful – and delicious – art.

CPTC Training Prepared Alum for Packaging Success

Whenever you go the store, it’s almost guaranteed you see a package that has been influenced by Joe Lydic. A Clover Park Technical College alum, Lydic is the art director at ProAmpac in Auburn. With 33 facilities worldwide, ProAmpac helps create flexible packaging for virtually every industry. And Lydic helps organize the art, graphics and branding.

Nursing Assistant Alum Spreads Encouragement

Maylyn Rivera wants to help people. Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Rivera helps people rehabilitate from injuries and surgery in an effort to recover well enough to return home. Within her own home, she looks to help her 14-year-old daughter pursue a successful path in education and life. And when she returns to Clover Park Technical College to share her experiences with the students going through the same classes she finished less than one year ago, she tells them about the job opportunities available to them if they continue to work hard.

New 13th Year Program Aims to Support Local Students

Clover Park Technical College is always looking for ways to make education possible for the Lakewood community. As part of that effort, the college will pilot a new “13th Year” program during the 2018-19 Academic Year that will provide recent local high school graduates with a free year of college tuition.

CPTC Community Remembers Student’s Impact On Campus

The Clover Park Technical College community was heartbroken to learn about the death of one of its students this week. Erika Boquet was killed, along with her three children and several other relatives, Monday morning in a car accident in eastern Oregon.

CPTC Community Loads Goodwill Truck for Student Support

Everyone needs a little extra incentive to clean out their home sometimes, and last week the Clover Park Technical College Foundation provided that motivation by partnering with Goodwill to host a donation drive.

CPTC Honors Andy Fritz with Trek for Tech

Clover Park Technical College memorialized a long-time faculty member and began a new fitness and fundraising tradition Saturday, July 28, with the Andy Fritz Memorial Trek for Tech 5k.

New Personal Care Pantry Provides Essentials to Students

The Clover Park Technical College Office of Student Life is always looking to ensure students have their basic needs fulfilled, and one of the new ways the office is providing for students is with a Personal Care Pantry.

CPTC Officially Opens New Welcome Center

In a moment fitting for the first day of a new quarter, Clover Park Technical College and the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce joined Monday afternoon to celebrate the grand opening of CPTC's new Welcome Center in Building 17 of the Lakewood Campus.

Glimpsing the Future of American Manufacturing

Clover Park Technical College’s Mechatronics program was highlighted at the 2018 Center for Advanced Manufacturing Puget Sound Conference earlier this month. The college sent nearly 20 representatives of the program to the event, and C2E Instructional Designer & Data Specialist Richard Hines came away with some thoughts and three takeaways about the future of manufacturing and the role CPTC and other technical colleges can play:

CPTC Celebrates Graduates at 22nd Commencement

It was a night attendees will long remember, as Clover Park Technical College celebrated its graduating Class of 2018 with nearly 450 graduates in attendance Tuesday, June 19, at Pacific Lutheran University’s Olson Auditorium.

CPTC Honors Excellence at Student Awards Ceremony

As the academic year approaches its conclusion, Clover Park Technical College continued a tradition of recognizing its exceptional students, faculty, and staff members on June 6 at the sixth annual Student Awards Ceremony.

Mechatronics & Club MEC Recognized at 2018 Manufacturing Conference

“Innovating for Our Future: Products, Processes & Technologies" was the theme of the 2018 Center for Advanced Manufacturing Puget Sound (CAMPS) Conference held Thursday, June 7, in Bellevue, so it was fitting that Clover Park Technical College’s Mechatronics program was highlighted at the event as the region’s leading two-year college program in manufacturing. Event organizers also provided CPTC’s Club MEC a prominent display placement so that students could show off their knowledge and skills to some of the most advanced companies in the state.

CPTC Hosts Groundbreaking for Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology

Leaders of Clover Park Technical College, Mortenson, and Schacht Aslani gathered with faculty and students Wednesday afternoon for a ceremonial groundbreaking on the new Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology.

Annual Honor Cord Ceremony Recognizes Graduating Veterans

Spring Fest Brings Campus Together for Fun and Food

Clover Park Technical College continued a May tradition last week, as the Associated Student Government hosted its sixth annual Spring Fest on May 25.

CPTC Sets Records with 75th Anniversary Gala

Clover Park Technical College celebrated the historic milestone of 75 years of workforce education with a record-breaking gala Saturday, May 19. The formal auction and dinner event surpassed its ambitious fundraising goal by raising more than $88,000 for CPTC students.

A Night of Magic, Mind Reading, and Comedy

Amber Christian enrolled in the Interior Design program at Clover Park Technical College because she wanted to have fun with art and prepare for professional career opportunities.

CPTC Welcomes High Schoolers for Annual Career Conference

Clover Park Technical College welcomed more than 2,000 high school students to its Lakewood Campus for the college’s annual Career Conference on May 10.

CPTC to Host 75th Anniversary Gala

The 2017-18 Academic Year marks Clover Park Technical College’s 75th Anniversary of workforce education. To celebrate this historic milestone, the college is hosting a formal dinner and auction gala on Saturday, May 19, at 5 p.m. in the McGavick Conference Center at CPTC’s Lakewood Campus.

Paint and Sip Event Provides Creativity and Community

Jessica McElroy moved from Texas to Lakewood a couple of years ago to join her husband, who is active duty Army stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. After recently getting settled into a new home and midway through spring quarter in the Dental Assistant program, McElroy was ready for a night of fun. She—and more than 50 other Clover Park Technical College students and family members—participated in Associated Student Government’s Paint and Sip night Monday, April 30.

CPTC Program Helped Alum Find Communications Career

In 1996, Steve Peterson interviewed with a small company when the founders came to meet with students in the Clover Park Technical College Convergence Technologies program. More than 20 years later, he is one of the longest-tenured employees at Continuant and has turned his technical training into a lifelong career.

CPTC Support Helps Alum Achieve Culinary Dream

A little kindness and support can go be the difference between a student giving up or reaching their educational and career goals. That held true for Clover Park Technical College Culinary Arts alum Jo Soeung, and she looks to share that support in her own workd and life.

Spring Program Expo Welcomes Prospective Students to Campus

Clover Park Technical College’s McGavick Conference Center welcomed more than 200 visitors Wednesday afternoon and evening as the college hosted its Spring Program Expo.

CNISS Students Test Skills at Cyber Defense Competition

While many students spend Spring Break relaxing and enjoying a break from their studies, eight Clover Park Technical College Computer Networking & Information Systems Security students put their learning to the test at the Pacific Rim Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition.

Portfolio Exhibition Highlights Interior Design Students’ Work

The Clover Park Technical College Interior Design program hosted its Winter Quarter Student Portfolio Exhibition March 15, giving students the opportunity to showcase their portfolios of work for classmates, community members and prospective employers.

Documentary Screening Promotes Mental Health Conversation

As our culture grapples with the challenges of mental health, the Clover Park Technical College Associated Student Government partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI-Pierce County) and The Healing Field to host a free public viewing of the documentary Crazywise.

Three CPTC Students Receive All-Washington Recognition

Three Clover Park Technical College students received special recognition as members of the 2018 All-Washington Academic Team Thursday, March 22, in a ceremony at South Puget Sound Community College.

CPTC Hosts International Student Graduation Ceremony

While Clover Park Technical College holds a full commencement ceremony in June each year, a group of about 30 students, staff, faculty and host families gathered at South Hill Campus on Friday, March 9, to recognize the international student graduates who are completing their program this winter quarter.

Aviation Maintenance Students Showcase Skills with First-Place Performance

Four Clover Park Technical College Aviation Maintenance Technician students put their skills and knowledge to the test at the Northwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show on Feb. 24, coming away with a first-place victory in an AMT student competition.

Living Voices Performance Invites CPTC Attendees to Experience History

Clover Park Technical College students, staff and faculty members had a unique opportunity to hear the story of the United States Revolution through the eyes of a young man last week during a pair of performances of “Our Revolution” by Living Voices.

Graphic Technologies Student Designs New Lakewood Playhouse Logo

When Lakewood Playhouse announced its brand new 80th Anniversary Logo earlier this week, it publicly unveiled a partnership between the local theatre company and Clover Park Technical College that allowed a CPTC student to design the new logo.

Fashion Show and Food Sculptures Make for Successful Winter Fest

Clover Park Technical College’s Associated Student Government hosted its annual Winter Fest last week, packing McGavick Conference Center with activities, booths and shows for students.

Puyallup Tribe Partners with Foundation to Provide Emergency Assistance

A generous gift from the Puyallup Tribe will help the Clover Park Technical College Foundation provide emergency assistance to students in need. The Puyallup Tribe presented the Foundation with a $12,000 grant on Friday in support of the Foundation’s emergency assistance endowment. The gift marks a significant step toward the Foundation’s goal of raising $75,000 over three years to double the emergency assistance endowment.

Human Services Grad Turned Uncertainty Into Education

For Bryant Watts, the educational journey began with a lot of uncertainty. Following a 21-year career in the United States Army, Watts found himself wondering what should come next when he retired in January 2012. A desire to help people and interest in teaching and counseling led him to Clover Park Technical College’s Human Services program that fall. While the initial process was daunting, he found himself in a supportive environment that helped guide his journey.

CPTC Selected to Receive $1 Million Guided Pathways Grant

Clover Park Technical College has been selected to receive $500,000 in grant funding from College Spark to assist its transition to the Guided Pathways education approach. The grant will be matched with a $500,000 allocation from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, bringing the total value to $1,000,000.

Programming Students Get Hands-On History Lesson

Clover Park Technical College has been taking some time to reflect on its history during its 75th Anniversary year, and a group of CPTC students similarly had a chance to reflect on some history recently on a visit to Living Computers: Museum + Labs in Seattle.

Interior Design Alum Turned Passion Into Career with CPTC and NWC&THS

When you discover your passion and a career path to match, it helps to have the opportunity to get a head start towards that goal. That’s exactly what Krissy Gala did when she came to Clover Park Technical College and Northwest Career & Technical High School to study interior design.

HUC Instructor Awarded Tenure at December Board of Trustees Meeting

December’s Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees meeting concluded last week with a special announcement, as the Board awarded tenure to Health Unit Coordinator instructor Joylene Perez.

Holiday House Provides Gifts for 100 Families

As fall quarter closes and Clover Park Technical College students take the next few weeks away from classes for the holidays, more than 200 children are set to receive presents this year thanks to the contributions of CPTC’s Holiday House.

CPTC Dental Students Serve at Project Homeless Connect

Students in Clover Park Technical College’s Dental Assistant program recently had the opportunity to put some of their training to use while serving in the community, as the program’s third-quarter students volunteered at Project Homeless Connect.

Leadership Luncheon Promotes “A Better Idea”

More than 150 Clover Park Technical College students, staff and faculty members came together to discuss “a better idea” and hear from keynote speaker Dr. Debra Jenkins at the Minority Student Engagement Leadership Luncheon on Nov. 29.

Health Fair Informs Attendees about Local Resources

While health is one of the most important things for people to pay attention to and manage, many people don’t provide it the time or focus it needs. In an effort to combat that issue, the Clover Park Technical College Associated Student Government hosted a CPTC Health Fair Nov. 16 in Building 23.

CPTC Foundation Raising Emergency Assistance Funds on #GivingTuesday

November 28 marks the annual #GivingTuesday, and for the second straight year the Clover Park Technical College Foundation has set a goal of $2,500 for the emergency assistance fund.

CPTC Hosts Fourth Annual Diversity & International Fair

A variety of performances, food and displays took over Clover Park Technical College’s McGavick Conference Center on Tuesday as the college hosted its Fourth Annual Diversity & International Fair.

CPTC Hosts Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

Clover Park Technical College began 75 years ago with programs designed to aid in the World War II effort, and on Wednesday the college and Associated Student Government continued its close relationship with the United States Armed Forces with its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the McGavick Conference Center.

CPTC Celebrates Manufacturing Day’s Cool Tech & Hot Careers

Clover Park Technical College welcomed 200 local high school students and several local businesses to campus Friday for Manufacturing Day 2017: Cool Tech & Hot Careers.

CPTC’s Open House Welcomes Potential Students to Campus

Clover Park Technical College hosted its Fall Open House Wednesday evening, welcoming more than 200 visitors to the McGavick Conference Center to learn about the college’s 44 programs and the enrollment process. Running from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m., the Open House featured fair-style displays for each program, along with workshops to answer questions about financial aid, enrolling and workforce development opportunities.

CPTC Kicks Off 75th Anniversary with Celebratory Event

As Clover Park Technical College began the 2017-18 Academic Year last week, the college began its yearlong celebration of a historic milestone with its 75th Anniversary Kickoff at the McGavick Conference Center on Sept. 28.

Surgical Tech Alum Found the Training & Career He Wanted

Many students pursue a degree in a field that interests them, only to discover after entering the workforce that it’s not the career they want. Mitchell Sweet was one of those students when he arrived at Clover Park Technical College in 1999. He had earned his associate degree in Social Health Services at Pierce College thinking he wanted to work in social services and mental health. Once he graduated and began working as a treatment attendant, that changed.

CPTC to Open 75th Anniversary Year with Kickoff Ceremony

The upcoming 2017-18 Academic Year marks a historic milestone for Clover Park Technical College, as the school will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the college will host a Kickoff ceremony Sept. 28 at the McGavick Conference Center on its Lakewood Campus.

Students Showcase Work at Interior Design Exhibition

A group of 15 Clover Park Technical College Inter Design students showed off their work to potential employers, fellow students and other visitors at Tuesday’s Student Portfolio Exhibition.

AMT Instructor Mike Potter Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

The Federal Aviation Administration presented Clover Park Technical College Aviation Maintenance Technology Instructor Mike Potter with a lifetime achievement award August 16.

Mechatronics Combines “Cupcakes & Competencies” at Employer Demo Event

Cupcakes, coffee and important conversation filled the room at the Clover Park Technical College Mechatronics Program’s “Cupcakes & Competencies” event Friday, as the program unveiled a new “Smart Matching System” to local employers and other guests.

Cosmetology Program Helps Local Students “Get Ready to Learn”

Sometimes a new haircut can make all the difference for a kid heading into a new school year. The Clover Park Technical College Cosmetology program helped make that possible for more than 100 local students, as CPTC students and alumni volunteered their services at the Caring for Kids Get Ready to Learn fair Saturday, Aug. 5, at Clover Park High School.

Walk-A-Thon Builds Campus Spirit & Emergency Assistance Funds

The walkway around Building 19 and the College Green at Clover Park Technical College’s Lakewood Campus has seen a lot of new activity this week as the CPTC Foundation is hosting its first Walk-A-Thon Aug. 7-11.

CPTC Offers Nurse Camp Students a Glimpse at Health Care Options

The Clover Park Technical College health sciences programs welcomed a group of 26 guests on July 20 as part of MultiCare’s annual Nurse Camp program.

Board of Trustees Awards Tenure to NDT Instructor

The Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees capped its July meeting by awarding tenure to CPTC Nondestructive Testing instructor Charles Musson.

CPTC Alum Hougland Found Perfect Fit in BAS-OPM Program

One of the most important parts of choosing which college to attend is finding the right fit for you. Adam Hougland knows that from personal experience.

CPTC Radio Class Helped Spark Award-Winning Career

Chris Daniels has never forgotten his roots. As he’s traveled the world reporting the news and become an award-winning journalist for KING 5 in Seattle, he always makes sure to give credit where it all began.

CPTC Honors Graduating Class at 21st Commencement

Tuesday evening was a time of celebration for Clover Park Technical College, as a total of 355 graduates attended the college’s 21st Commencement Ceremony at the Tacoma Dome.

Fifth Annual Student Awards Ceremony Recognizes Excellence

Clover Park Technical College recognized some of its most exceptional students and staff members June 7 as the Fifth Annual Student Awards Ceremony featured a festive carnival theme.

CPTC Recognizes Graduating Veterans at Honor Cord Ceremony

In the midst of the final push toward graduation, Clover Park Technical College hosted its fourth annual Veteran Honor Cord Ceremony Monday to recognize the students who have served in the Armed Forces and will be finishing their time at CPTC in a few weeks.

CPTC Alum’s Documentary Set to Screen with Historic Film

Ninety years after the original release of Tacoma-shot feature film “The Eyes of the Totem,” the film will again grace the screen of Tacoma’s Rialto Theater. The journey it took to reach this point is the subject of the documentary “A Totem Tale,” which will play prior to the movie screening and was created by Clover Park Technical College alum Mick Flaaen.

MLT Meet and Greet Provides Key Networking Opportunity

Clover Park Technical College Medical Laboratory Technician students had the unique opportunity to mingle with potential employers, present on a health topic and enjoy some delicious food at the program’s annual Meet and Greet Event on Wednesday, May 24.

Spring Fest Provides Fun Break for Students, Staff and Families

A beautiful sunny day set the stage for Clover Park Technical College’s fifth annual Spring Fest, and students, staff and their families took advantage of the chance to have some fun in the sun on Thursday, May 25.

Culture Exchange and Learning Highlight Osaka Jikei Trip to CPTC

Continuing a more than 10-year international tradition, the Clover Park Technical College Medical Histology program hosted a group from Japan’s Osaka Jikei College last week for a three-day tour educational and cultural exchange tour.

CPTC Histology Student Receives Prestigious ASCP Award

Clover Park Technical College Medical Histology student Allison Hughes has been named a recipient of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists National Honor Student Award, and she received her certificate during her morning class on May 17.

Two Faculty Members Awarded Tenure

The Clover Park Technical College May Board of Trustees meeting ended with a special announcement for faculty members Robert Carver and Ken Meerdink, as the Board awarded tenure to each of the two instructors.

Study Shows CPTC Generates $187.9 Million Impact on Economy

A recent study completed by the Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI) measuring Clover Park Technical College’s economic impact on Pierce County revealed that CPTC adds nearly $200 million dollars annually to the economy, and its students will see a $2.50 return for every $1 they spend on their education at the college.

CPTC Shows Off Cool Tech & Hot Careers at Career Conference

The Clover Park Technical College Lakewood Campus crowded with people on a rainy May 11 as 4,000 local middle school, high school and prospective students visited for the college’s annual Career Conference.

CPTC Hosts Congressman Heck for Leadership Luncheon

Nearly 100 Clover Park Technical College students, staff and faculty gathered Wednesday in the McGavick Conference Center to hear from and ask questions of Congressman Denny Heck at the latest CPTC Leadership Luncheon.

Minority Student Engagement Committee Hosts First Open Forum

The Clover Park Technical College Minority Student Engagement Committee hosted its first open forum Tuesday, May 9, with more than 100 CPTC students, staff and faculty members in attendance at the McGavick Conference Center.

Graphic Design Student Earns Prestigious Fellowship

As graduation approaches, it’s inevitable for finishing students to start hearing questions about what they plan to do next. For graphic design student Ben Donan, that plan includes moving to Germany for one year to become the first Clover Park Technical College student to participate in a prestigious fellowship program.

Foundation Hosts Record-Breaking Scholarship Banquet

Scholarships can make the difference between a student having to drop out or attaining a life-changing education, and the Clover Park Technical College Foundation recognized their importance April 18 at the 11th annual Scholarship Banquet at the McGavick Conference Center.

New Scholarship Opportunity Announced for CPTC Automotive Students

Clover Park Technical College automotive students will have access to a new scholarship for the 2017-18 academic year courtesy of the RPM Foundation and BMW Northwest.

Bus Pass Partnership Unveiled at Kickoff Ceremony

Clover Park Technical College and Pierce Transit officially unveiled the Community & Technical College Student Bus Pass Program at a kickoff ceremony Wednesday afternoon at the CPTC Student Leadership & Service Center.

CPTC Student Seeks to Help Others Through Addiction Recovery

Barbara Van Hise has found her calling, and it’s in human services. She will graduate from Clover Park Technical College in June and look to live out that calling in a training center. While today she is secure and stable in her calling, foundation and future, her journey to reaching this point was anything but secure and stable.

Historic Iditarod Champion to Keynote Scholarship Luncheon

For Dallas Seavey, everything revolves around maximizing the talent of his team. While others focus on the resume of a man who, at 30 years of age, is already one of the most successful mushers in Iditarod history, he focuses on making sure everyone operates at peak ability.

Automotive Student Finds Art in Restoration and Customization

Ericka DeBoer is an artist, and her canvas is a car. The Clover Park Technical College Automotive Restoration and Customization student knows some people will hear that and look at her funny, but it’s true. “I’d always doodled and enjoyed designing cars, giving different looks to vehicles,” DeBoer said. “I’ve always liked the art part of cars.”

Interior Design Hosts Showcase and Sets Sights on Paris

The Clover Park Technical College Interior Design program hosted its Winter Student Portfolio Exhibition Friday, showcasing the work of 15 students in the McGavick Conference Center.

CPTC Hosts Mechatronics for Military Info Session

A Mechatronics degree can be a passport to a bright career for transitioning service members, and that was the message at the Mechatronics for Military Info Session and Lab Tour hosted by Clover Park Technical College’s Mechatronics program March 10.

Congrats to CPTC’s Two All-Washington Academic Honorees

A pair of Clover Park Technical College students will be recognized by Washington Governor Jay Inslee as part of the 2017 All-Washington Academic Team next week at South Puget Sound Community College. Environmental Sciences & Technology student Jessica Bracken and Pharmacy Technician student AnneMarie Mafi earned the honor for their academic high achievement.

Board of Trustees Awards Tenure to Four Instructors

The Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees capped last week’s March meeting by awarding tenure to a quartet of CPTC instructors.

Career Center Connects Students & Employers at Spring Fair

The Clover Park Technical College Career Center aims to provide CPTC students and alumni with the skills and opportunities to apply for jobs, and the 2017 Spring Career & Job Fair served as one of those primary opportunities.

Foundation Set to Host Scholarship Luncheon

The Clover Park Technical College Foundation works throughout the year to provide support for students in need, and in April the Foundation will recognize its 2016-17 scholarship recipients at its annual Scholarship Celebration Luncheon.

Environmental Remediation Course Making an Impact

For nearly 15 years, Clover Park Technical College has partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency, City of Tacoma and Goodwill to provide grant-funded environmental remediation training courses. Friday, the program received some extra attention.

Whipple Selected for NISOD Recognition

Clover Park Technical College Esthetic Sciences instructor Jennifer Whipple's has been selected as the college's 2017 National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award recipient.

Trip to DC Inspires CPTC Student Leaders

Last week, Clover Park Technical College Associated Student Government President Annie Mafi and Legislative Officer Michael Clarke had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the Association of Community College Trustees National Legislative Summit. The two students traveled with CPTC President Dr. Joyce Loveday, Vice President of Strategic Development Tawny Dotson and CPTC trustee Wayne Withrow and his wife.

Dream Job Comes Early for CPTC Student

Not many people find their passion and dream job before officially graduating high school. But for Clover Park Technical College Running Start student – and soon-to-be alum – Caleb Davenport, that’s exactly what happened.

Winter Fest Offers Students Free Food and Fun

Robots, canned food sculptures, games and more filled the Building 23 Atrium and Ballroom Thursday, Feb. 9, as part of the 2017 Clover Park Technical College Winter Fest.

From Military Medic to Automotive Mechanic

The past two years have provided quite the occupational and lifestyle shift for Schuyller Nagorski, who will finish the Clover Park Technical College Automotive Technician program at the conclusion of winter quarter.

CPTC Alum Honored at Transforming Lives Dinner

Clover Park Technical College graduate Kevin Carbonell attended the 2017 Washington State Association of College Trustees (ACT) Transforming Lives Awards Monday evening as CPTC’s honoree for recognition.

ASG Helps Students Reach Campus with Pilot Bus Pass Program

Clover Park Technical College’s Associated Student Government is always looking for ways to help students overcome challenges to education, and this month ASG launched its latest push to ensure students have a reliable way to get to campus.

Board of Trustees Appoints Dr. Loveday President

After a brief executive session at the conclusion of its Jan. 11 meeting, the Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve a contract appointing interim president Dr. Joyce Loveday as the permanent president.

CPTC Alum Becomes Stylist for the Stars

Two months ago, Roby Woobank made the biggest move of his life, and for good reason. The 2016 graduate of the Clover Park Technical College Cosmetology program packed his bags and headed to New York for an assistant stylist position at the famed Sally Hershberger/Tim Rogers Salon.

T-Shirts Just One Way CPTC Alum Gives Back

The holiday season and the end of each year provide a time for people to reflect and give back, and Clover Park Technical College Danielle Perkins takes that idea to heart.

Congratulations to CPTC’s New Tenured Faculty

Last week’s Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees meeting proved to be a special evening for a pair of CPTC faculty members, as the Board awarded tenure to Nursing instructor David Bahrt and Running Start counselor Kevin Kildun.

CPTC Continues Holiday House Tradition of Giving

The holiday season can be a difficult time for low-income families, and that can especially be true for Clover Park Technical College students devoting valuable time and resources to their education in an effort to improve their long-term situation.

Mechatronics Workshop Prepares Students for Job Search

An education from Clover Park Technical College aims at job preparation, and as part of that goal the Mechatronics program hosted a Job Search 101/Career Info Session for its students earlier this week.

New Mechatronics Equipment Increases Automation Ability

Clover Park Technical College's Mechatronics program introduced a new tool in June to help students achieve a whole new level of automation in the HAS-200. A fully modular system of up to 11 workstations, a raw material store station and the control cabinet, the HAS-200 reproduces a production process with a high level of automation that helps to develop the professional capacities required in diverse sectors like automotive, semiconductors, food and pharmaceuticals.

#GivingTuesday Raises Emergency Support for Students

The Clover Park Technical College Foundation received a boost to its emergency assistance programs for the 2016 holiday season, surpassing its fundraising goal of $2,500 as part of the worldwide #GivingTuesday event earlier this week.

Diversity Fair Celebrates International Culture

Clover Park Technical College celebrated International Education Week with its third annual Diversity & International Fair, highlighting various cultures from around the world on Nov. 15 in the McGavick Conference Center.

CPTC Unveils New Twin-Engine Plane

A new step forward for the Clover Park Technical College aviation programs took place Thursday, as the college officially unveiled and dedicated its new twin-engine Tecnam P2006T airplane at its South Hill Campus.

CPTC Offers Thanks at Veterans Day Ceremony

On a day that will go a long way toward determining America’s future, Clover Park Technical College recognized those who have served in the Armed Forces at its annual Veterans Day Ceremony Tuesday at the Lakewood Campus.

Local Donors Help Make Education Possible

Generous donors serve a vital role in the education process, and a pair of local organizations recently made significant contributions to the Clover Park Technical College Foundation for a pair of funds to assist students. Lakeview Light & Power Company established a new annual “named scholarship” with the CPTC Foundation, while Lakewood Rotary awarded a grant to support the Foundation’s Emergency Assistance fund.

Weise Shares Surgical Technician Experiences at Leadership Luncheon

Clover Park Technical College students, instructors and staff members gathered in the McGavick Conference Center Wednesday morning for an informative Leadership Luncheon with Madigan Army Medical Center surgical technician Michael Weise.

Lunch and Learn Event Focuses on Defining Success

A group of about 30 Clover Park Technical College staff and faculty members gathered in the CPTC Rotunda Wednesday for a Lunch and Learn session led by speaker Jen Briggs.

CPTC Alum Takes Sugar Skills to “Halloween Wars”

Clover Park Technical College Pastry Arts alum Teresa Argeris first started focusing on baking while in the military. Several years later, she found herself in the midst of “Halloween Wars” on Food Network, putting her sugar work skills to the test in pursuit of a $50,000 prize.

Cross-Pacific Partnership Continues with Osaka Jikei Visit

The Clover Park Technical College Lakewood Campus served as a cross-cultural center of learning last week, as a group of students from Japan’s Osaka Jikei College partnered with CPTC’s Medical Laboratory and Medical Histology Technician programs for a study tour and cultural exchange.

CPTC Welcomes Potential Students for Fall Open House

Nearly 200 current and potential students made their way around the Clover Park Technical College Lakewood Campus Wednesday afternoon to learn about CPTC’s 43 different programs during the college’s Fall Evening Open House.

CPTC Esthetics Program Named School of the Year

While Lira Clinical representative Aimee Fuentes often visits Clover Park Technical College to educate esthetic students and clients about Lira products, her visit early this week served a more congratulatory purpose.

CPTC Students Share Massage Skills with Screening Patients

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and a group of Clover Park Technical College esthetic sciences students got a head start on assisting with prevention and treatment last week when they volunteered their skills to mammogram screening patients at Carol Milgard Breast Center in Tacoma.

Pritchard Appointed to Second Term on CPTC Board of Trustees

Clover Park Technical College Trustee Lua Pritchard has been appointed to a second five-year term on the CPTC Board of Trustees. Pritchard’s first term, which began Oct. 3, 2011, concludes Sept. 30, while her second appointment by Washington Governor Jay Inslee will officially begin the following day.

CPTC Cosmetology Student Receives Matrix Scholarship

For most Clover Park Technical College students, Sept. 27 was simply the second day of fall quarter classes. For fifth-quarter cosmetology student Jazzmyn Miller, it was quite a bit more special. Representatives from Matrix and Salon Centric interrupted Miller’s afternoon cosmetology class to award her with flowers, balloons and – most importantly – a $5,000 scholarship check as part of the “Imagine All You Can Be” program.

Interior Design Exhibition Showcases Student Work

The Clover Park Technical College Rotunda became a showcase for student portfolios on Aug. 26, as six students wrapping up their time in the Interior Design program exhibited their work for potential employers, alumni and members of the campus community.

Waste Site Simulation Shows Hazards of the Job

Donning HazMat suits and oxygen tanks and battling the August heat, 14 Clover Park Technical College students simulated a hazardous waste site evaluation Wednesday morning.

Ahead of the Game: Architecture Alum Gets Career Head Start

Most recent high school graduates spend the summer either planning for college or looking for an entry-level work opportunity. Most recent high school graduates are not Sarah Cox.

CPTC’s Haircuts Help Students Get “Ready to Learn”

More than 100 local kids will sport a fresh look heading into the new school year thanks to a group of Clover Park Technical College cosmetology students and alumni who spent several hours cutting hair Saturday morning as part of the annual Caring For Kids Ready to Learn Fair.

Authentic Leadership at the AAWCC Luncheon

The Clover Park Technical College chapter of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges welcomed nearly 50 college staff, faculty, student and community members to its fourth annual luncheon Wednesday, Aug. 3, at the McGavick Conference Center.

CPTC Joins Springbrook Summer Block Party

One of the best places to spend a sunny Friday afternoon is in a park enjoying the warm weather and building relationships. That’s how a group of Clover Park Technical College students, faculty and staff spent several hours on Friday, July 29, offering free haircuts, face painting and numerous other activities to local residents at Lakewood’s Springbrook Park.

Forever Learning: CPTC Grad Takes Hold of All Opportunities

Despite being a husband, father, veteran and 20-year information technology worker, Martin Trinidad didn’t let his busy life stop him from getting his degree and getting involved while a student at Clover Park Technical College.

Interior Design Alumni Share Experiences

The Clover Park Technical College interior design program received a special visit Friday morning. Four recent alumni returned to campus to share their career experiences since graduation and answer questions from current students.

From High School to Politics: CPTC Student Finds His Passion

One of the biggest stereotypes of every election cycle is that young people don’t vote or get involved in politics. That doesn’t ring true for Northwest Career and Technical High School graduate and Clover Park Technical College student Dakota Myers.

Local Dealer Shares Volt with Hybrid Students

Partnerships with local business create valuable hands-on opportunities for technical education students. Last week a group of nine Clover Park Technical College automotive program students experienced the benefits of one of those partnerships when they had a chance to spend two days working with a Chevrolet Volt courtesy of Parkland dealer Titus-Will Chevrolet.

CPTC Welcomes Prospective Students to Visit Campus for Evening Open House

Clover Park Technical College successfully hosted its second Evening Open House Wednesday, welcoming hundreds of prospective students to visit the Lakewood campus and learn about the school. The event was open to the public and was held in the evening to cater to working adults looking to find out more about the dozens of programs CPTC offers.

CPTC Offers Nurse Camp Students Hands-On Experience

Clover Park Technical College’s health sciences and human services programs enjoyed a special group of visitors Thursday afternoon, as 18 local high school students joined CPTC’s instructors and students for some hands-on experience as part of the 2016 Nurse Camp.

Clover Park Graduate Reaches New Heights Despite Lacking Home

A Cut Above: CPTC Instructor Helps Barber Find His Voice

Fate was working in Michael Floyd’s favor when Dr. Phil Venditti, a public speaking instructor at Clover Park Technical College, walked into his barbershop for a hair cut. Floyd has owned his barbershop, “A Cut Above,” in Lakewood for 23 years and is also in training to become a longshoreman, but something was missing in his life. His love of ministry at his local church is his real passion, but public speaking had always been a challenge for him.

CPTC Manufactures Professional Managers

Working professionals may have decades of experience, but sometimes going back to school is the only way to advance in their field. Clover Park Technical College sought to meet these professional’s needs with the introduction of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Operations Management program almost two years ago.

Loveday Steps Into New Role as CPTC Interim President

The Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees selected Dr. Joyce Loveday to serve as interim president at the May 18 Board of Trustees meeting, and Dr. Loveday stepped into her new role June 1.

CPTC recognizes more than 400 graduates at 20th Commencement Ceremony

Clover Park Technical College’s 20th Annual Commencement Ceremony not only impacted those who walked across the stage, but it will also impact those whose lives might be transformed one day by the 2016 graduates. More than 400 graduates took that life-changing walk Saturday afternoon to earn their CPTC degrees.

MLT Students Meet and Greet Lab Professionals

Real-world experience can be one of the hardest things to acquire for a college student, but it’s also one of the most important factors for being hired after graduation. Clover Park Technical College’s Medical Laboratory Technician program sets its students up for success by holding an annual meet-and-greet for local clinical professionals to meet with CPTC students about potential internships in their labs.

Computer Programming Students Present Spring Quarter Projects

Students from the Clover Park Technical College Computer Programming and Web Development Program offered a glimpse into six different projects conducted during the spring quarter as they presented their projects Monday morning at McGavick Conference Center.

Students Honored Under Candlelight at Fourth Annual Awards Ceremony

Though a tight-knit, modest community, Clover Park Technical College didn’t go small when honoring faculty and staff deemed outstanding during the fourth annual Student Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 8.

CPTC Friends Old and New Unite for Retiree Luncheon

You know Clover Park Technical College is an excellent place to work when retired faculty and staff – some retired more than 20 years – continue to visit the campus.

Student Involvement: CPTC Awakens the Force

The force was strong at Clover Park Technical College as students, friends and family enjoyed the newest Star Wars movie “The Force Awakens” during Outdoor Movie Night, June 4, 2016. The free event was hosted outdoors and allowed students to bring blankets, chairs, pillows, and anything to make them and their guests comfortable while watching the new release on a theater-sized inflatable screen.

Rep. Kilmer: This is a school that’s got your six

In an intimate room with a small group of veterans, family and friends there was a celebration in order at Clover Park Technical College, June 1, 2016. Veterans were receiving their honor cords during the 3rd Annual CPTC Veteran Honor Cord Ceremony.

Student Involvement: First-Ever Field Day at CPTC

A little bit of fun to breakup the day is what Clover Park Technical College is all about. That’s why the first ever “Field Day” fit right in at CPTC’s Lakewood campus, June 1, 2016.

Student Involvement: The Great CPTC Get Together

It was a typical Washington day for most people in Lakewood — clouds and all — but not for Clover Park Technical College students and staff who were celebrating their fourth annual Spring Fest, May 26, 2016.

Bridging the gap: CPTC hosts Japanese medical lab students

Students pin down their future at Clover Park Technical College

CPTC President: My Transition

CPTC Foundation: Reflecting on Transforming Lives Campaign

CPTC Foundation’s Transforming Lives Campaign ended Dec. 31, 2015, but the nearly $1 million raised will positively impact students and the campus community for years to come.

Transforming Lives Through Scholarships

CPTC scholarship recipients and donors were recognized April 19 at the CPTC Foundation’s 10th Annual Scholarship Banquet.

An Innovative Partnership

A spirit of innovation is the result of a partnership between CPTC and the Northwestern Joint Regional Correctional Facility on Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

A Human Services Family Network

When Tianna Guien was enrolled in CPTC's Human Services Program, her peers knew her mom was also on campus.

Emergency Phone Towers Coming Soon

CPTC partnered with the college’s Associated Student Government to add another layer of security on campus with the purchase of emergency phone towers.

Career Center Prepares Students for Employment

Hana Greer recommends students make their first visit to the Career Center at least six months before they complete their program.

Remembering Beloved Community Member, Elnora Medley

The CPTC community mourns the loss of long-time Cosmetology Program supporter and volunteer Elnora Medley.

A Career in the Outdoors

Environmental Sciences and Technology graduate Tara Livingood recently celebrated 15 years with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Veterans Resource Center Opens Doors to New Space

The Veterans Resource Center has settled into its new location in Building 2 on Clover Park Technical College’s Lakewood Campus.

Studying for a Promotion

Ryan Reygers has noticed a trend in the Retail Business Management Program he teaches at Clover Park Technical College.

Graphic Technologies Graduate Designs His Career

Ryan Riveness wasn’t sure he could turn something he enjoyed into a career.

Mechatronics Students Learn Robotics

Mechatronics students are programming a FANUC robotic arm to draw images.

Students Get Career Ready

CPTC students and alumni took advantage of a career planning opportunity with the 2016 Spring Career/Job Fair at the McGavick Conference Center on March 2.

Culinary Arts Learns Outside the Classroom

Restaurant Management instructor Monique Trudnowski wants her students to learn more about the industry than just the “four-walled restaurant."

Graphic Technologies Enjoys Memorable Assignment

Second and fourth quarter students in CPTC’s Graphic Technologies Program had a unique opportunity to show off their learned design skills.

Putting Skills to the Test

Two four-person teams competed in the first Northwest Regional Aviation Maintenance Competition.

Hometown Hero Jermaine Kearse Visits CPTC

Lakewood native and Seattle Seahawk Jermaine Kearse visited Clover Park Technical College for a special campus event Feb. 16.

Student Chef Specials Highlight Culture, Creativity

CPTC's Rainier Room is open Wednesday-Friday 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., and provides hands-on learning for the college’s Culinary Arts students.

Instructor Ken Markovits Receives 2016 NISOD Excellence Award

Congratulations to Hemodialysis Technician instructor Ken Markovits, who was selected as CPTC's 2016 NISOD Excellence Award recipient.

Dr. John E. Roueche Highlights CPTC, Bates Joint Faculty Inservice Event

CPTC welcomed Dr. John E. Roueche to its Lakewood Campus for a special joint faculty inservice meeting with Bates Technical College in the McGavick Event Center on Feb. 5.

Congratulations to CPTC’s Newest Tenured Faculty, Dana Guinn

The Clover Park Technical College Board of Trustees awarded tenure to Medical Laboratory Technician instructor Dana Guinn on Jan. 20.

Graduate Finds Niche as Cosmetologist

While a student in CPTC's Cosmetology Program, Ashley Wells was inspired by something instructor Michelle Ganyon said more than 10 years ago.

Sustainability in the Community

Sustainable Building Science instructor Dan Smith is designing and building a community structure with the help of his students.

Former Running Start Student Lands on Reality TV

Before she sat front row at Fashion Week 2015 in New York, and before she appeared in season 20 of The Bachelor, Breanne Rice was a Running Start student at CPTC.

Get to Know ASG President Myra Morales

Whether at home, on campus or in the community, Myra Morales is involved.

Student Leader Finds Success as Software Engineer

CPTC's Student Leadership & Service Center led Nate Oelrich to two major and important life events.

Never Stop Learning

Julie Wellborn discovered her passion more than two decades ago while a student at Clover Park Technical College.

Coding Their Future

Computer Programming and Web Development students presented coding projects at end-of-quarter presentations.

From Soldier to Welder

Former soldier prepares for career in welding.

Pharmacy Technician Instructor Receives State Award

Pharmacy Technician Instructor Maureen Sparks named Outstanding Pharmacy Technician of the Year by the Washington State Pharmacy Association.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree at CPTC

Wanting to work while also learning technical skills, Loussaint Minett enrolled in CPTC's Bachelor of Applied Science in Operations Management Program.

Celebrating Diversity and International Education

Diversity was celebrated Nov. 17 at CPTC's 2nd Annual Diversity and International Education Fair at the McGavick Event Center.

Bringing Together the Aviation Community

To create more opportunities for students in the aviation programs at CPTC’s South Hill Campus, Andre Hunter helped to establish the Future Mechanics and Aviation Club.

Veterans Day Ceremony 2015

The college community joined staff, faculty and student veterans at CPTC’s 2015 Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 12 at the McGavick Event Center.

Massage Studies Program Sets Up Students for Success

A trio of Massage Studies graduates share how CPTC set them up for success.

Automotive Student Awarded Grainger Scholarship

Congratulations to Automotive Collision Technician student Kirk Clark, who recently received a Grainger Tools for Tomorrow scholarship.

CPTC Faculty Receives Training on Active Threats

CPTC's In-service day for faculty on Oct. 23 included training on how instructors can recognize and respond to the threat of an active shooter on campus.

Community Visits CPTC for Fall Open House

More than 350 people visited the college's programs on Wednesday, Oct. 28.

Shrimp Cocktail, Reinvented: Chef Instructor Shares Popular Recipe at Holiday Show

Culinary Arts Instructor Chef William Jolly demonstates how to make th perfect shrimp cocktail.

Designing Her Future: CPTC Alumna Credits Instructors, Degree with Job Success

Bachelor’s degree holder returns to school at CPTC and finds career success in growing industry.

HVAC Welcomes Industry Members to Open House

CPTC's HVAC Program invited alumni and industry members to an open house event on Oct. 20.

From Pilot to Inventor to HVAC Student: Tacoma Man’s Career Brings Him Back to CPTC

CPTC Sends Expression of Support to Umpqua Community College

CPTC's PTK Chapter invited the college community to sign a condolence banner for Umpqua Community College.

Pastry Arts Grad Does Stint in France, Whips Up New Career

Before Jennifer Phillips put her Pastry Arts Degree to use in the local industry, she took her acquired culinary skills from CPTC to France.

Former Marine Forges Industry Connections, New Career in Manufacturing

As Jake Boushack prepared to separate from service with the U.S. Marine Corps, the artilleryman researched employable fields in Washington state.

Cosmetology Student Surprised with Scholarship

Cosmetology student Kimyatta Tillman is surprised with a $5,000 scholarship.

Instructor Receives PSE Distinguished Faculty Award

Dental Assistant instructor receives the 2015 PSE Distinguished Faculty Award.

Opening Day 2015: Operation Student Success

CPTC staff and faculty celebrated the start of a new academic year with the college’s annual Opening Day event Sept. 18.

Peer Ambassador Receives Statewide Leadership Award

Ask Ashley Duncan a question about student life at Clover Park Technical College, and chances are she’ll have an answer.

CPTC Launches Bachelor’s Degree Holders into In-Demand Field

Computer Programming and Web Development graduates find employment with the Washington State Department of Ecology.

CPTC official joins Washington Governor Jay Inslee on trade mission to Asia

Mabel Edmonds was one of more than 60 delegates who attended a trade mission with Gov. Jay Inslee to Korea and Japan last week.

Daughters Follow Mother’s Footsteps into Nursing

When sisters Kristina and Celeste Lott enrolled in CPTC's LPN program, their mother Kristi returned to CPTC to earn her RN degree.

Transforming Lives Campaign: Giving Students the Power to Grow

Clover Park Technical College Foundation’s Transforming Lives Campaign targets three areas: people, careers and community.

Community Helps Nursing Student Overcome Obstacles

Andrea Castaneda overcame anxiety to pursue an education and career in the nursing field.

Student Success offices return to Building 17

CPTC recently completed a remodel of the Student Success area of Building 17.

Hayes Child Development Center Receives NAEYC Reaccreditation

Hayes Child Development Center recently received reaffirmation of accreditation by the NAEYC.

One Quarter, 10 English Credits

Accelerated English Program offers opportunity to co-enroll in two English courses.

‘Lunch on Lonnie’

CPTC President Dr. Lonnie L. Howard treated Cosmetology faculty to lunch on Aug. 10.

Small Investment, Big Return

McGranahan Architects has a long history with CPTC and its Foundation.

Health Unit Coordinator Student Wants to Give Back

Jeanee Henson’s time spent in and out of hospitals during her childhood left a lasting impression on her.

Growing & Showing Leadership

The CPTC Chapter of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges hosted its third annual luncheon July 23.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for July

The Enrollment Calling Campaign group is the President's Unsung Hero for July.

Earning His Wings

Former Professional Pilot student is ready to earn his commercial pilot license.

Instructor Receives National Award

Instructor Maureen Sparks receives national award for her contributions to pharmacy technician education.

Learning from the Experts

The longevity of the program and dedicated faculty make CPTC’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Program stand out.

A New Start, A New Career

Student looks forward to new career in Non-Destructive Testing field.

CPTC Celebrates Class of 2015

More than 400 students received their degree, certificate or diploma for the 2014-2015 academic year at this year's commencement ceremony.

End of Quarter Presentation Highlights CIT Students

Hands-on History Lesson

A group of Aviation Maintenance Technician students help restore a WWII plane for an upcoming movie.

The Start of the Next Mission

Twenty-four graduating student veterans participated in the 2015 Veterans Honor Cord Ceremony at the McGavick Event Center on June 5.

A Night to Celebrate Leadership

Annual Student Awards Ceremony recognizes those exemplifying academic and community leadership at CPTC.

Preparing for Summer Internships

Medical Histology Technician students met with clinical site supervisors in an interview event on campus.

Ready for the Final Course

Former Culinary Arts student returns to take final class after nine-year absence.

Learning Across Cultures

CPTC welcomed 38 students from Osaka Jikei College for a three-day study tour May 19-21.

James Johnson Receives Posthumous Honorary Degree

Dr. Lonnie L. Howard presents a posthumous honorary degree to family of James Johnson.

Military Appreciation Month: Camaraderie at the VRC

The CPTC veterans group's goal is to assist other student veterans.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for May

College relations specialist Somer Hanson is the President's Unsung Hero for May 2015.

The ‘Esthe Sisters’

CPTC graduates share love of skin care and customer service under the same roof.

CPTC Welcomes 3,500 for Annual Career Conference

CPTC welcomed 3,500 area middle school, high school and prospective students at the 15th Annual Career Conference on May 14.

Medical Lab Tech Students Meet and Greet

Medical Lab Technician students meet with clinical site representatives at annual meet and greet event.

Tutors Help Students Succeed

CPTC's Tutoring Center offers free tutoring to help students succeed.

Preparing for Management Level with BAS-OPM

Bryan Daniels is part of the first cohort of students in CPTC's Bachelor of Applied Science in Manufacturing Operations Program.

Foundation Celebrates Scholarship Recipients

CPTC scholarship recipients and donors were recognized at the college’s 9th Annual Scholarship Banquet.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for April

Medical Histology Technician Instructor Bekki Haggerty is the President's Unsung Hero for April.

From Students to Surgical Technologists

Surgical Technology graduates share with current students what they can expect in the industry.

Student Takes CPTC Degree to Japan

International student returns home to Japan with Interior Design degree.

McGranahan Architects Wins Design Award for CPTC Building

McGranahan Architects in Tacoma has received a Grand Prize Award for its creative design of CPTC's Health Sciences Building in the Spring 2015 Learning By Design Architectural Showcase.

Finding Community in Painting

Emiko Hammond has attended CPTC's Continuing Education painting class for nearly two decades.

Preparing to Launch

Graduates of Clover Park Technical College's Interior Design Program gain valuable experience before going out on their own.

Congratulations to All-WA Academic Team Honorees

Walker Mattson and Callie Dukett were honored as 2015 All-Washington Academic Team selections from Clover Park Technical College.

Student Veteran Shares Story with Local Legislators

CPTC student Amber James shared her testimony with a unique audience.

LPN Students Receive Their Pins

Thirty-one Practical Nursing students who completed the LPN program this quarter were honored at a pinning ceremony.

Interior Design Students Present at Portfolio Event

Interior Design students showcased their creativity at the program’s annual student portfolio event March 18

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for March

Fran Matz was selected the President's Unsung Hero for March.

CNISS Student Named All-USA Gold Scholar

Callie Dukett shared her secret to achieving a 4.0 GPA at Clover Park Technical College.

Esthetic Sciences Students Volunteer at Women’s Health Event

CPTC's Esthetic Sciences students volunteered at a community event at the Carol Milgard Breast Center in Tacoma on March 6.

Congratulations to Our New Tenured Faculty

The CPTC Board of Trustees awarded tenure to four instructors on March 4.

Histology Students Volunteer at Madigan

When the Department of Pathology at Madigan Army Medical Center on JBLM had a need for histology technicians, students from CPTC stepped up to help.

Designing Her Future

Running Start student Julianna Jewell will graduate in June 2016 with her high school diploma and Graphic Technologies Degree at the age of 17.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for February

Workforce Development Grants and Special Projects Coordinator Christine Campbell was selected the President's Unsung Hero for February.

Comfortable in Her Own Skin

Taylor Conley has discovered a new confidence as a student in CPTC's Esthetic Sciences Program.

A Sweet Side of Chicago

Pastry Arts graduate Mollie Stewart is headed to Chicago to work on the pastry line.

CPTC Hosts Regional Automotive Competition

CPTC's Automotive Program hosted the 2015 SkillsUSA South Puget Sound Regional Automotive Competition Jan. 31.

Teaching Excellence: An Aerial View

What faculty excellence means to Professional Pilot Instructor Marshall Collins.

Preparing for the Aerospace Industry

More than 100 CPTC students and graduates had the chance to network with employers at the college’s inaugural Winter Aerospace Career.

A Design Network

Friendships formed in the Architectural Engineering Design Program helped pave a career path for graduate Linda Brent.

CPTC President Participates in Local MLK Events

CPTC President Dr. Lonnie L. Howard was invited to speak at Harrison Preparatory’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Assembly Jan. 16.

Congratulations to the Winter Quarter President’s Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations to Katie Stock, Clover Park Technical College Winter Quarter President’s Scholarship recipient.

Graphic Technologies Students ‘CPTC Themselves’ in the Industry

About 35 students toured Print NW in Lakewood to see what they learn about in the classroom.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for January

CPTC's Facilities and Information Technology Departments were selected as the President's Unsung Hero for January.

Surgical Technology Instructor Granted Tenure

Surgical Technology Instructor Ronda Armstrong was granted tenure Dec. 10.

Preparing for the Next Career

Noah Hebert enrolled in CPTC’s Computer Information Technology Program to enter a field with available jobs and advancement opportunities.

Cosmetology Student Gives Back

Cosmetology student volunteers to provide hair care for tribal elders.

Building to Sustain

Sustainable Building Science is about taking action that meets the needs of people, profit and the planet while sustaining natural resources for the future.

CPTC Spreads Holiday Cheer on Campus

CPTC brought holiday cheer to campus Dec. 4 to help ease the financial and mental stress that often occurs during the holidays.

CIT Students Present Quarter Projects

Clover Park Technical College Computer Information Technology students presented their Fall Quarter projects at an end-of-quarter presentation Dec. 1.

Hayes Child Development Center Gets Crafty

Families worked together to build creative crafts at a hands-on event at Clover Park Technical College’s Hayes Child Development Center Nov. 20.

Celebrating Diversity

In recognition of International Education Week and to celebrate diversity, CPTC hosted its first Diversity and International Education Fair Nov. 18.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit

Cosmetology Instructor Denise Klug can teach about entrepreneurship from experience.

Congratulations to Cindy Overton, the President’s Unsung Hero for November

Cindy Overton was selected the Unsung Hero for the month of November for her dedication to increasing student success and educational access.

CPTC Celebrates Veterans

The CPTC community gathered for the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the McGavick Event Center Nov. 13.

Teaching Excellence: Encouraging Creativity

Loreta Sandoval has been an instructor for nearly 20 years at CPTC, where she encourages her math students to think creatively.

CPTC President Reflects on His First Year of Tenure

This September marked the one-year anniversary of Dr. Lonnie L. Howard’s tenure as president of Clover Park Technical College.

Japanese Students Visit CPTC for Study Tour

A group of Japanese medical laboratory students from Osaka Jikei College visited Clover Park Technical College for a three-day study tour Oct. 27-29.

Workshop Helps Identify True Colors

Fifteen members of the CPTC community attended a workshop hosted by the college's Chapter of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges Nov. 4.

Students Empowering Other Students

Recently chartered club provides support to students on a peer-to-peer level.

Recipes with Memories

Maria Medina enrolled in CPTC's Pastry Arts Program to pursue her dream to be a professional baker.

Campus Event Caters to Student Veterans

CPTC's Veterans Resource Center and Disability Resources Office hosted representatives from the Washington Department of Veteran Affairs for a special campus event Oct. 22.

Holiday Cooking with CPTC’s Culinary Arts

Chef William Jolly and Culinary Arts student Kelson Williams presented a 15-minute “Cooking for the Holidays” demo at the Tacoma Holiday Food and Gift Festival.

Congratulations to Bryan Powell, the President’s Unsung Hero for October

Bryan Powell, CPTC's coordinator for grant development, was selected October's Unsung Hero.

CPTC Student Wins On Wheel of Fortune

CPTC student Charles McDonald won big on Wheel of Fortune.

‘Math is What You Do’

More than 800 middle school students visited Clover Park Technical College's Lakewood campus Oct. 9 for the annual Math Conference.

Automotive Students Participate in Public Service Event

Nine automotive students from Clover Park Technical College volunteered in a statewide “Lights On” campaign Oct. 4.

Getting to Know CPTC’s ASG President

Katie Stock enrolled in CPTC's Architectural Engineering Design Program after suffering a "mid-life crisis" at age 27.

Medical Lab Technician Students Learn Hands On

Medical Lab Technician students prepare for their externships at clinical sites.

Preparing for a Career in a High-Demand Field

Chris Fromm was drawn to the hands-on aspect of creating something in the welding industry and enrolled in CPTC's program.

‘I’m Doing This for My Future’

Kelli Taylor is preparing for her future as a student in the Dental Assistant Program.

Staff and Faculty Celebrate Change at Opening Day

Clover Park Technical College staff and faculty celebrated the start of the 2014-2015 academic school year with an Opening Day event Sept. 19 at the McGavick Conference Center.

Student Finds Second Chance at CPTC

CPTC student Frances Jordan prepares for a career in the medical field with the Health Unit Coordinator Program.

Introducing CPTC Veteran Navigator Shawn Durnen

Former soldier and CPTC student Shawn Durnen took over as Veteran Navigator earlier this month.

Peer Ambassador Program Recognized at Conference

CPTC's Peer Ambassador Program was recognized at state level at the LEAD 2014 Leadership and Activities Institute.

Congratulations to the Fall Quarter President’s Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to Clover Park Technical College Fall Quarter President's Scholarship recipients, Daniel Lukyanov and Walker Mattson.

Out and About with CPTC President Dr. Lonnie L. Howard

The last week of Summer Quarter at Clover Park Technical College was busy for everyone on campus, including President Dr. Lonnie L. Howard.

Nursing Students Celebrate Program Completion with Pinning Ceremonies

CPTC's Nursing Program celebrated the completion of 25 RN and 42 LPN students at formal pinning ceremonies.

Teaching Excellence: Nationally Recognized Instructor Dedicated to CPTC

Pharmacy Technician Instructor Maureen Sparks' dedication and commitment to CPTC, the community and her field is also evident outside of the classroom.

CPTC’s Security Department Receives Vehicle Upgrade

For more than 10 years CPTC’s Security Department has operated with three used vehicles, repurposing, recycling and reusing whenever possible.

Dental Student Prepares to be on Top of Different Game

Former junior college basketball player found her next career move with CPTC's Dental Assistant Program.

Online Program Advances Students in Retail Industry

CPTC's online Retail Management Program prepares students for careers in marketing, sales, retailing, customer service, entrepreneurship, and general business applications.

Congratulations to Janet Holm, the President’s Unsung Hero for August

Janet Holm, Clover Park Technical College’s outreach coordinator, was selected as the Unsung Hero for the month of August for her efforts to refine CPTC’s business practices and increase student success and educational access.

New Career Track Starts at CPTC

After Leslie Potts rediscovered her love of math, she enrolled in CPTC's Accounting Program to pursue a career as an accountant.

‘You Can Go Back to School’

After almost two decades in the workforce, Michael Kizer enrolled at CPTC to prepare for a career as a business owner.

Female Leaders Highlight Annual AAWCC Luncheon

The CPTC Chapter of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges hosted a panel of local female leaders for its second annual luncheon July 24.

2014 Puget Sound Energy Distinguished Faculty Award

Congratulations to Nursing Instructor Lara Cooper, who was selected to receive the 2014 Puget Sound Energy Distinguished Faculty Award.

Alum’s Software Benefits Hemodialysis Technician Students

CPTC alum creates web-based medical charting software to give Hemodialysis Technician students a 'real world' learning environment.

Navigator Guides Students to Careers

CPTC's Air Washington navigator helps guide students to a successful career track.

Nurse Camp

Twenty-one high school students from the MultiCare Health System Nurse Camp 2014 visited Clover Park Technical College July 24.

Student Pursues Career to Help Others

CPTC Human Services Student Tianna White helps those in need in the Tacoma community.

Congratulations to the President’s Unsung Hero for July, CPTC’s Graduation Committee

The CPTC Graduation Committee was selected as the July Unsung Hero for their innovative work in organizing the campus-wide annual event.

CPTC to Debut Two New Programs Fall Quarter

Clover Park Technical College will introduce a Bachelor of Applied Science in Manufacturing Operations (BASMO) and an Associate in Applied Science in Mechatronics beginning Fall Quarter (Sept. 22).

Local Artist Creates Public Artwork for Clover Park Technical College

Norman Courtney created public art pieces for CPTC with the theme 'transformation.'

Automotive Technician Program Receives Biodiesel Machine

CPTC's Automotive Technician students will turn used cooking oil into alternate fuel.

From Football to the Classroom

When Al Brown's dream of playing football for the Dallas Cowboys didn't come true, he pursued an education at Clover Park Technical College to help and inspire others.

Human Services Student Receives Volunteer Recognition

The Boys and Girls Club Lakewood Branch selected Clover Park Technical College Human Services student Volunteer of the Month.

Student Finds Direction in Army Reserves and CPTC

While serving in the Army Reserves, Tiffany Nguyen was inspired to pursue an education in the medical field at Clover Park Technical College.

College 101 Introduces New Students to CPTC

About 90 new students participated in Clover Park Technical College's opening session of the College 101 course at the McGavick Student Center on the Lakewood campus June 20.

Vision Loss Not a Barrier for Massage Studies Student

Despite being legally blind in his left eye, Perry Lewis is about to successfully complete his third quarter in the Massage Studies program at Clover Park Technical College.

CPTC Peer Ambassador Program Gives Students Meaningful Experiences

The Office of Student Programs at Clover Park Technical College launched the Peer Ambassador program last fall to decrease barriers and increase access to academic and support services for students.

2014 CPTC Commencement Ceremony

More than 400 students received their degree, certificate or diploma for the 2013-2014 academic year at the 18th Annual Clover Park Technical College Commencement Ceremony at the Tacoma Dome June 18.

CIT Students Showcase Programming at End of Quarter Presentation

Computer Information Technology students showcased their projects and learned from industry employers at end of quarter presentation June 12.

CPTC Diversity Committee Presents ‘The Men of Atalissa’

Clover Park Technical College's Diversity Committee partnered with the University of Washington Tacoma Diversity Resource Center for a film and discussion event.

Academic and Community Leadership Recognized at Annual Awards Ceremony

Thirteen awards were presented at Clover Park Technical College’s 2nd Annual Student Awards Ceremony at the Lakewood campus June 4.

Sustainability in Action: Flett Creek Habitat Continues to Improve

Seven years after receiving a grant from the Pierce County Community Salmon Fund, areas of the Flett Creek wetland across the street from the Clover Park Technical College Lakewood campus continue to improve to provide a better salmon habitat.

Nursing Student Named Assisted Living Nurse of the Year

Clover Park Technical College nursing student Monica Chopra was recently named the Assisted Living Nurse of the Year for 2014 by the Washington Health Care Association.

Running Start Student Gets Jump Start in Architectural Field

Running Start student Jasmine Tjhung graduates high school this month and is set to complete the Architectural Engineering Design program at CPTC winter 2015.

Seventh Graders Learn From Environmental Sciences and Technology Students

Seventh grade science students studying ecology at Woodbrook Middle School in Lakewood learned from Environmental Sciences and Technology students at Clover Park Technical College.

CPTC Graphic Technologies Student Wins Poster Design Contest

Graphic Technologies student Sean Kirkpatrick won first place in the 2014 PrintROCKS! Student Designed Poster Contest.

CPTC Hosts Study Tour for Japanese Students

Medical laboratory students from Japan worked with Clover Park Technical College Medical Histology Technician students on hands-on lab activities, toured campus, and visited Seattle as part of a three-day study tour.

Education Helped in Soldier’s Transition

After Brian Fraser separated from the Army, CPTC was his first step in his transition to the civilian sector.

‘Awesome Guaranteed’ at 2nd Annual Spring Fest

Students were treated to free food and entertainment at Clover Park Technical College's 2nd Annual Spring Fest.

Grad’s Career in Human Services Started at CPTC

Alanna Rodgers' career in human services started at CPTC. Now current students volunteer with Rodgers' event, Project Homeless Connect.

Congratulations to Michelle Barre, the President’s Unsung Hero for May

Michelle Barre, Clover Park Technical College’s Advising and Counseling/Student Services program assistant, was selected as the May Unsung Hero recipient for her dedication to increase student success and educational access.

CPTC Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Earns Five-Star Status

Beta Omicron Gamma, Clover Park Technical College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, received five-star chapter status for the fifth year in a row.

Cosmetology Couple Finds Love and Success after CPTC

CPTC alums have enjoyed a successful marriage and career since graduation.

Veterans Gather for Forum at Lakewood Campus

Clover Park Technical College hosted nearly 75 veterans, family members and community members for a Veterans Issues Forum at the McGavick Student Center April 30.

Hayes Child Development Center Takes Field Trip to Nursing Lab

A group of children from the Hayes Child Development Center at Clover Park Technical College took a field trip to the nursing lab.

Congratulations to Sharon Freeman, the President’s Unsung Hero for April

Sharon Freeman, Clover Park Technical College's Opportunity Grant coordinator, is being awarded with the April Unsung Hero Award for her commitment to educational access and to becoming more entrepreneurial.

Welcome to Our New International Students!

This quarter Clover Park Technical College welcomes its tenth group of aviation students from Civil Aviation Flight University of China.

Surgical Technology Students Take First and Second in Scrub Bowl

Clover Park Technical College students took the top two spots at the Surgical Technology Scrub Bowl March 16 at CPTC's Lakewood campus.

Forty-Two Students Celebrate Completion of LPN Certificate at Pinning Ceremony

Forty-two Clover Park Technical College students celebrated the completion of their Practical Nursing Certificate at a pinning ceremony on March 19, 2014.

The President’s Unsung Hero for March: CPTC’s Automotive Program

Clover Park Technical College's Automotive Program has been given March's Unsung Hero award for their commitment to student success and their responsiveness to the local community.

Interior Design Students Show Their Work at Portfolio Event

Clover Park Technical College Interior Design students showed off their work at the annual student portfolio event on Wed., March 12, in the McGavick Conference Center.

Two CPTC Students Named to All-Washington Academic Team

Two Clover Park Technical College students will be honored as members of the 2014 All-Washington Academic Team at noon on Thurs., March 27, at South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia.

Sustainability in Action – CPTC Finds New Use for Older Computers

Clover Park Technical College's South Hill campus continues the tradition of sustainability on campus by finding new uses for the college's older computers.

CPTC Esthetics Students Are Bringing Beauty Back

Students from Clover Park Technical College's Esthetic Sciences program helped bring out the natural beauty of community members at their free spa and make-up event.

The President’s Unsung Hero Award for February Goes to You, CPTC!

It takes the support of many people to ensure student success. That's why the February 2014 Unsung Hero Award goes to every member of our campus community!

CPVTI Alum Learns to Drive Donated Model-T

CPVTI alum Harold Feaster is taught how to drive the Model-T he donated to CPTC 15 years ago, now completely refurbished and running like new.

Program Spotlight – Manufacturing Technologies

CPTC's Manufacturing Technologies students learn to use conventional machine tools, computerized machining systems and produce precision machine parts.

CPTC Hosts 2014 SkillsUSA Regional Automotive Competition

Area high school students rolled up their sleeves and got to work at the 2014 SkillsUSA Regional Automotive Competition hosted by Clover Park Technical College.

In the Spotlight: Hayes Child Development Center

The Hayes Child Development Center on CPTC’s Lakewood campus exists to help turn children and their families into life-long learners.

CPTC Students Can Save Money in 2014 by Signing Up for SALT

Check out this great video and learn how SALT can help you become more financially savvy!

Congratulations to CPTC’s Newly Tenured Faculty

CPTC announces six new faculty members have completed the demanding review process and will be awarded tenure in Dec. 2013.

Cosmetology Staff Named President’s Unsung Heroes

CPTC's entire Cosmetology department was awarded the January 2014 Unsung Hero award for their willingness to give back to their community.

The President’s Unsung Hero for January 2014

Clover Park Technical College awards Ms. Elnora Medley the January 2014 Unsung Hero Award for her 50 years of dedication to the Cosmetology program.

Out with the Old and in With the New – CPTC Unveils Restored Model-T

CPTC students restore 1927 Ford Model-T with help from a volunteer from the Tacoma Model-T Club.

CPTC Gives the Gift of Hope with Annual Holiday House

Every year CPTC’s Foundation hosts the Holiday House Program, an annual volunteer activity that distributes December holiday assistance to eligible CPTC students in the form of food, gift cards and holiday gifts.

CPTC Students Build Machine to Quickly and Efficiently Cool Soda

CPTC students from the HVAC program built an energy efficient machine capable of quickly cooling drinks.

In the Spotlight Profile: Humbled to Serve

CPTC alum and Veteran Navigator Jonathan Wagner received the Presidents Call to Service award, the highest honor in national and community service.

CPTC Instructor Appointed to State Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission

CPTC instructor Maureen Sparks is the first Pharmacy Technician to be appointed to the WA State Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission.

Congressman Heck Reminds Ceremony Attendees to Restate Commitment to Veterans

CPTC staff, students and faculty paused to remember, reflect and reignite their commitment to veterans.

Health Sciences Facility Dedicated

On Sept. 20, 2013 CPTC dedicates the new Health Sciences Facility.