The leaves are changing, the air is finally crisp and cool, and the days are shorter. It’s October! While there are plenty of fall activities to do, like order your pumpkin spice drinks and carve jack-o-lanterns, here at St. Cloud Technical & Community College, we are geared up for big things college related.
- It’s College Knowledge Month! In Minnesota, October is designated as a time to build awareness around college and career options. High school seniors start thinking about applying to college, so schools provide space and time for them to fill out applications.
College Knowledge means it’s also time for campus visits! MEA break is Oct. 16-17, and SCTCC is hosting four campus tour times during those days. Of course, there are tours available several other days, but if you’re visiting colleges over MEA, add SCTCC to your list. And it’s not just for high school students – anyone is welcome to join us for a tour!
- It’s also Manufacturing Month here in Minnesota. As one of the biggest industries in the state, it’s expected there will be 93,000 job openings for manufacturing positions through 2032 (per DEED). With new jobs being created and many folks retiring, manufacturing is a booming – AND needed.
SCTCC is ready to educate the next generation of manufacturing engineering professionals – from design to maintenance and repair. With automation tools and abilities improving every day, those in the field need to be nimble and willing to learn. With Mechanical Design Engineering Technology, CNC & Advanced Machining, Robotics & Industrial Controls, and Welding programs, those interested in this career field have many options for training and education.
- Starting October 7, and as part of Manufacturing Month, SCTCC is kicking off the auction for the Black Panther made by Welding student Jasslyn Dahlberg. Jasslyn put 100 hours into the project, bringing to life a 10’ long panther. The auction ends on Oct. 31, and the funds go directly to the SCTCC Welding program.
- After more than 10 years, the Heartland Building on campus is getting a facelift. The groundbreaking for the Wedum Center for Student Success on the second floor is Oct. 15, which includes a new roof thanks to state legislators. Once complete in fall 2026, the renovated space will include the Center for Academic Success and First-Gen Cyclones Success teams.
- Local tenth graders take note (and their parents)! EPIC (Exploring Potential Interests and Careers) is taking over SCTCC on Oct. 24. There will be 4,500+ tenth graders from more than 40 area school districts on campus to learn about different careers and opportunities for their future. We will welcome area businesses across a wide range of career fields to share information on how a future in that area might look.
- SCTCC is bringing back our Open Houses for Fall 2025. Instructors will be available at our Fall Open Houses, where you can check out the labs and classrooms for each program and learn more about degree options. There will also be opportunities to chat with admissions folks about applying to the College, and you can check out the student services available. The Health Sciences & Nursing Open House is on Oct. 29 at the Health Sciences Building, 3:30-6 p.m., 1245 15th St. N., St. Cloud. The Open House for Trades, Business, IT, Education, Liberal Arts, and Transfer is on Nov. 5, 3:30-6 p.m. at the Northway (Main) Building, 1540 Northway Dr., St. Cloud.
These six things happening in October are just the beginning. From athletics to on-campus community events to studying for midterms, there is always something going on at SCTCC. Come be a part of it!