PTC Clearwater shows off their new digs! 

October 23, 2019 | COLLEGE NEWS

Pinellas Technical College Clearwater campus held its grand re-opening Oct. 17 after an $18.5 million renovation.

"Thank you to everyone who supports Pinellas Technical College so individuals like me -- who work, who have children -- can still access affordable, quality education that will enable them to propel their lives even further," said Shannon Harvey, a student in the Practical Nursing program.  

Harvey was just one of many people who praised Pinellas Technical College (PTC) at the official unveiling of their newly renovated Clearwater campus on Thursday, Oct. 17. 

Pinellas Technical College Clearwater campus Director Jake Prokop

PTC Clearwater Director Jake Prokop stepped in as master of ceremony while Career, Technical, and Adult Education Executive Director Mark Hunt welcomed a large crowd filled with city and county officials, school administration and staff, students, and family members.  

 "We're glad you all came out to see the new Pinellas Technical College Clearwater campus and take in all the fantastic work that a lot of people have done for us to make this come together," he remarked. 

Pinellas County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Grego feels the building stands for economic development and putting people to work.

Pinellas County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Grego was on hand to show his support for career technical education. He explained that not every school district governs a technical college; however, the Pinellas County School Board recognizes the need to provide education from preschool to the workforce.  

Grego thanked the business community, local government, and advisory committees and likened them to a three legged-stool that "support the technical college and really support our community."

L, R – Career, Technical, and Adult Education Executive Director Mark Hunt, Sean Tobe, immediate past president of the Central Pinellas Chamber of Commerce, and Practical Nursing student Shannon Harvey

Two years ago, Ajax Building LLC embarked on an $18.5 million multi-phased renovation project that included 13 buildings on campus, constructed two new classroom buildings, a pre-engineered metal building structure for outdoor automotive repairs and re-roofing of four classroom buildings. 

Many of the campus-wide building renovations include updated restrooms, improved mechanical systems, new ceilings, energy-efficient LED lighting, and low voltage systems.

Campus Director Jake Prokop and Pang Thao, chair of the PTC School Advisory Committee

Interior work included overhauling the administration areas, student services, nursing classroom labs, HVAC instructional space, automotive and welding instructional space, and the cosmetology classroom.  

"Our new building mirrors our new programs, new direction, and continued mission to provide a competent, skilled workforce for the future," asserted Assistant Director Dr. Radiah Dent-Palmer.  

Prokop turned everyone's attention to the images of the instructors on the large monitors. He counted more than 2,400 years of experience between both campuses, and many of the teachers are still practitioners of their craft.  

"I think that's a fantastic offering that we give to the community," he said. 

L, R – Assistant Directors Dr. Claudius Effiom, Wendy Bailey, and Dr. Radiah Dent-Palmer (not shown) gave a timeline of the Pinellas Technical College Clearwater campus.

Sean Tobe, immediate past president of the Central Pinellas Chamber of Commerce, presented the college with the Silver Hammer Award last month for having an impact on the regional economy and contributing locally to a better quality of life. He took the time to acknowledge PTC's role in the community once again.  

Student testimonials were the highlight of the evening. Pang Thao, chair of the School Advisory Committee, read a statement from navy veteran and Electricity program student Sergio Schickler, who was unable to attend due to illness in the family.   

He wrote: "My excitement for the trades come not only from my military background but also from the extended benefit I enjoy in comparison with a university education in terms of cost and immediate return on my investment. I envision a great and fulfilling future in my chosen field anchored in my ethnical and technical instruction I receive at Pinellas Technical College." 

It was Harvey, however, that left some in the audience looking for a tissue. Her heartfelt words encapsulated the experience of many students who attend PTC.

"I am so honored and happy to be graduating at the completion of this month from the practical nursing program," said Shannon Harvey, a student in the Practical Nursing program.

Her journey at PTC began in 2008 when she enrolled in the Patient Care Technician program, which allowed her to quit her overnight job in a gas station and start working in the medical field. 

In 2018, she enrolled in the Practical Nursing program and will complete her studies next week.  

"I know that it will enable me to provide a much better life and possibilities for my children, and I am so thankful to Pinellas Technical College for allowing me to have those opportunities." 

Harvey remarked how pleasantly surprised she was by the "amazing support" she received from the school leadership and said her instructor is "caring," "qualified," and "passionate about teaching." 

"What a pleasure it is when we go out into the community, as required by the Florida Board of Nursing, and perform our clinicals and see former students actively working – successful nurses that come with recommendations – this is an amazing thing."  

After the ceremony, guests were invited to sample a smorgasbord of sweet and savory fare prepared by the Professional Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry students and tour the campus.