North Central Kansas Technical College (NCK Tech), Beloit campus, is one of only seven colleges in Kansas to achieve Cisco Academy status through the Cisco Networking Academy program. Established in 1997, Networking Academy is Cisco’s largest and longest-running Corporate Social Responsibility program. Networking Academy uses a public-private partnership model to create the “world’s largest classroom.” Cisco partners with educational institutions, such as NCK Tech, which provide classroom space, computer lab equipment, and qualified instructors. In turn, Cisco provides online curricula, virtual learning tools, instructional support, teacher training, and professional development opportunities for instructors.

Hands-on learning activities and network simulations help students in NCK Tech’s Information Technology (IT) and Telecommunications and Network Technology programs prepare for industry-recognized certifications and develop the foundational skills, in problem solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.

This academy model uses several innovative technologies, including:

  • Cisco Packet Tracer: a powerful visualization and simulation tool that allows users to design, build, troubleshoot, and experiment with virtual networks.
  • Cisco Passport21 to Entrepreneurship: a series of case studies, simulations, and interactive tools designed to help students develop critical business and financial skills.
  • Cisco Aspire: an educational game in an engaging virtual environment that allows students to solve business and technical challenges as they complete projects for clients.
  • Social Media Tools: resources like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and the NetAcad Instructor Community site connect students and instructors around the world to encourage collaboration and learning outside the classroom.

 

The NCK Tech Information Technology Program provides training in network administration, web page design, intranet and internet operations, diagnosing and troubleshooting computers and software applications. Upon successful completion of the program, students have the option of an Information Technology Certificate (one year program) or an Associate of Applied Science Degree (two year program). Robert McCreight, Department Chair, and Krystal Link are the instructors for the Information Technology program.

The Telecommunications and Network Technology Program offers training in telecommunications circuits and devices, digital logic, telecommunications cabling, computer data networks, LAN/WAN design, wireless communications and Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Upon successful completion of the two year program, students will be awarded an Associate of Applied Science Degree. Thomas Magnett is the Department Chair of the Telecommunications and Network Technology program.

For further information on the program offerings at NCK Tech, please visit: www.ncktc.edu or call 800-648-4655.