Continuing Education

ACCOUNTING FUNDAMENTALS SERIES - ONLINE

This new twelve-week online program, containing two courses, provides you with the essentials of the accounting field. The first course delivers you the basics of bookkeeping and financial transactions. You will gain hands-on experience with accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and more. Once you are acquainted with the basics, you will proceed with the next course. During the second course you will learn about corporate accounting practices including plant assets, dividends, and financial reports. Please follow the ed2go registration instructions.

American Heart Association Courses (Hybrid)

Are you looking for a flexible and convenient way to meet your AHA training needs? Courses offered include Basic Life Support CPR, Heartsaver First Aid, CPR and AED for the Workplace, Bloodborne Pathogens, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

CAM: CNC Milling (Spring 2024)

This course introduces Computer Numerical Control graphics programming and concepts for machining center applications. Emphasis is placed on developing a shape file in a graphics CAM system and transferring coded information from CAM graphics to the CNC milling center. Upon completion, students should be able to develop a complete job plan using CAM software to create a multi-axis CNC program.

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt - ONLINE

In this course, you’ll learn how to effectively apply the concepts and methods of Six Sigma. You’ll discover how value-stream mapping, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), process capability, control charts, statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), and many more—can increase your overall quality IQ. After completing this course, you’ll be prepared to sit for the Six Sigma Green Belt certification exam offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) as well as be positioned to add value to a wide variety of organizations, including manufacturing companies, service operations, and the government sector. You may begin this program at any time and will be given six months to complete the training.

Computer Basics (Basic PC Literacy)

This course provides an overview of computer concepts. Emphasis is placed on the use of personal computers and software applications for personal and fundamental workplace use. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate basic personal computer skills.

CNC Milling

This course introduces the manual programming, setup, and operation of CNC machining centers. Topics include programming formats, control functions, program editing, part production, and inspection. Upon completion, students should be able to manufacture simple parts using CNC machining centers.

Cyber 101

Learn the fundamentals of Cybersecurity in this 7-week course. Course is taught fully online. Tuition Sponsored.

Electronic Notary (Electronic Notarization)

Electronic notarization is the process of applying an electronic notary signature and seal onto an electronic document in a completely electronic and paperless transaction.

Effective Business Writing - ONLINE

Improve your career prospects by learning how to develop powerful written documents that draw readers in and keep them motivated to continue to the end. Please follow the ed2go registration instructions.

Forklift Training: Basic Operator

Gain the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to operate a sit-down counterbalanced, LP gas powered forklift. Learn safety aspects, operations, basic maintenance, and OSHA compliance issues. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will earn an operator’s certificate. Manual included in the cost of the course.

Forklift Training: Train the Trainer

Train others to operate a forklift. Training is based on the requirements of the OSHA Standard to develop a forklift training class. Attendees should be experienced forklift (powered industrial) truck drivers.

Machining II (Mornings)

This course provides instruction in the wide variety of processes associated with machining. Topics include safety, equipment set-up, holding fixtures, tooling, cutting speeds and depths, metal properties, and proper finishes. Upon completion, students should be able to safely demonstrate advanced machining operations, accurately measure components, and produce accurate components with a proper finish.

Machining II (Evenings)

This course provides instruction in the wide variety of processes associated with machining. Topics include safety, equipment set-up, holding fixtures, tooling, cutting speeds and depths, metal properties, and proper finishes. Upon completion, students should be able to safely demonstrate advanced machining operations, accurately measure components, and produce accurate components with a proper finish.

Manicure/Nail Technology

This comprehensive course provides instruction and clinical practice in manicuring, nail building (application and maintenance of artificial nails) and pedicuring. The course content includes nail anatomy, disorders of nails, and irregularities of nails; theory and salesmanship as it relates to manicuring; actual practice in manicuring; and arm, hand, and foot massage. Manicurist students must complete 300 hours in an approved beauty school or college before applying to the State Board of Cosmetic Arts for examination. Students enrolled only in manicuring shall only perform services directly relating to the prescribed course in manicuring. Please note, this is a comprehensive course to provide training for those persons interested in becoming registered manicurists only and not desiring to become licensed cosmetologists.

Microsoft Office Classes - ONLINE

Several levels of Microsoft Office Access, Excel, Project, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Publisher courses are available through www.ed2go.com/gaston. Please follow the registration instructions.

National Career Readiness Certificate

Learn more about our regular testing schedule and sign up today.

Natural Hair Care

The Workforce Development/Continuing Education department offers the Natural Hair Care program which includes a combination of classroom theory, lab, and salon experience.

Notary Public

You will need this required course to obtain a commission as a Notary Public in North Carolina. It can be used for all current Notaries as a refresher course.

Nurse Aide Certification I, II, and Refresher

Continuing Education offers the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program including CNA I, CNA II and a hybrid Nurse Aide I Refresher course.

Paramedic Refresher Course

The Paramedic Refresher course follows the guidelines established by the NC Office of EMS, and adheres to the EMS Education Standards, the American Heart Association, the National Registry of EMTs, and introduces the new NCCP guidelines. Students must be currently or previously credentialed as a NC and/or NREMT Paramedic, have a high school diploma or high school equivalency, and have basic reading comprehension and English skills. This course includes an online component, psychomotor skills practice and evaluation, and a comprehensive evaluation. You must take the entire course to receive course credit.

Phlebotomy

Continuing Education offers the Phlebotomy program which includes classroom theory, lab, and a clinical externship which requires attending a clinical site to complete a minimum of 75 successful venipunctures and 144 hours of clinical externship. The first ten (10) weeks will consist of lectures and labs, during which students will practice procedures prior to attending clinical training. The remaining six (6) weeks of the semester will consist of clinical hours off-site during a daytime clinical rotation at a local medical facility.

Phlebotomy Refresher

The Phlebotomy Refresher course is designed to offer continuing education credit for individuals who have received previous training in phlebotomy.

Real Estate Broker Pre-Licensing

Successful completion of the Broker Pre-licensing Course is generally required to qualify for the North Carolina (NC) real estate license examination and to obtain a NC real estate broker license. The primary objectives of this course are (1) to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to act as licensed real estate brokers in North Carolina in a manner that protects and serves the public interest and (2) to prepare students for the NC real estate license examination.

SHRM-CP - ONLINE

Become a professional in the HR world by taking the Society of Human Resource Managers exam. HR professionals, who implement policies and strategies, serve as a point of contact for staff and are stakeholders.

Teacher Renewal - ONLINE

Courses are available online through ed2go for teacher renewal credit. Courses include Solving Classroom Discipline Problems, Content Literacy, Teaching Smarter with SMART Boards, and many more. Please visit www.ed2go.com/gaston for a complete list.

TEAS Test Prep Class

Gaston College offers a four-day, low cost prep class for the ATI TEAS Test. Students who complete the 4-day class will receive a certificate of completion and 0.5 point toward their Gaston College ADN and PN application. The class will prepare test takers for all four parts of the ATI TEAS Test: 1. Mathematics, 2. Science: Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, and Physiology, 3. Reading, 4. English and Language Usage.

Test Preparation - ONLINE

Gaston College offers several test preparation courses online through ed2go. These six-week courses provide test-taking skills, insight into the questions you may expect, and instruction on how to approach the different test questions you will encounter. Test preparation courses for the GMAT, GRE, LSAT, SAT/ACT, and more are available.

Truck Driver Training

Gaston College’s Truck Driver Training program is being offered through a partnership with Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute. This 9-week class consists of classroom instruction, range driving, and road driving. Students completing this course will be prepared to operate tractor-trailer rigs, acquire a commercial driver’s license, and become a professional driver.

Basic Computer Technology Awareness

Learn basic computers skills and technology-based job search skills. Class includes workplace skills and presenting yourself in the most positive light.

Basics of Bookkeeping

A local CPA/accountant discusses how to “set up the books” for your business.

Facebook Shops & Facebook Marketplace

Financing Your Business

This seminar is a continuation of the business planning process and a discussion of funding sources for your business.

Growing Your Business on Etsy

Etsy is a rapidly growing online marketplace for selling handmade goods, vintage items and craft supplies. With more than 50 million active buyers, there’s no better place to launch your own creative small business. Attend this class to learn how to sell your art work, jewelry, crafts, and vintage items in this easy fast paced class!

How to Build a Wix Website

Wix is the world’s most popular website design platform. You’ll find specialized features to create a professional website and manage your business with Wix.

How to Find Your Customers

This seminar will help you better understand your customers and how to reach them via use of demographics and psychographics. It will also include using social media.

How to Start A Business

This introductory seminar is designed to acquaint the business owner-to-be with the tools necessary to start their respective business. You will take lessons from an entrepreneur who has “been there, done that."

How to Write a Business Plan

A local banker discusses the necessity and technique of developing and writing your business plan.

Insurance Issues for Small Business

A local insurance agent discusses the insurance needs of small business.

Legal Issues for Small Business

A local attorney discusses issues on business organization, legal obligations and the rights and legal liability of the small business owner.

Marketing Your Business

This seminar is designed to introduce the business owner to the essential tools needed for branding and marketing.

Successful Sales on Amazon

Amazon is the leading e-commerce website in the United States with more than $370 billion dollars in 2020 net sales. Amazon has more than 350 million active customer accounts worldwide. In this fast paced class you’ll learn How the secrets of Amazon's Search Algorithm, how to register & choose the account that fits your goals, and list an item on Amazon for free to maximize your profitability.

The Basics of Selling on Ebay

A great seminar for the “beginner”, small business owner, or the entrepreneur wanting to make eBay a primary business tool. During this fast-paced session, learn best practices to use when setting up an account, listing items for sale, taking payments, and shipping.

Your Small Business Taxes

A local CPA/accountant discusses financial statement formulation and terminology, self-employment and payroll taxes, tax theory and forms, and aspects of interacting with your finance and accounting professional.

Accounting Fundamentals

Demand for accounting professionals currently exceeds supply. If you're interested in increasing your financial awareness while also gaining a marketable skill, this course is for you.

Blogging and Podcasting for Beginners

In this course, you'll learn how to create, manage, and promote your own blog and audio and video podcast using tools that you already have on your computer—no paid software or equipment is needed.

Business and Marketing Writing

Are you a writer working in the business world? Or a marketing professional responsible for obtaining great marketing copy? Maybe your boss made you the company writer, but you've never had any training. Or maybe you're just interested in a writing or marketing career.

Common Core Standards for English/Language Arts K-5

In this course you'll explore the basic elements of the standards—strands, anchor standards, and grade articulations—and you'll see how they relate to each other.

Complete List of Online Classes

Do you want to upgrade your skills, but don't have the time to fit a traditional, on-campus class into your hectic schedule? Gaston College offers non-credit continuing education courses over the Internet. Enroll and study in the privacy of your own home.

Computer Skills for the Workplace

This course is a great introduction to Windows 10 and Office 2016 and is designed to provide the fundamental computer competencies you need to survive and prosper in today's fast-changing workplace.

Content Literacy (Grades 6-12)

review the new literacy standards to see how they relate to the content areas, and uncover the many ways adolescent development is connected to effective teaching. We'll explore differentiated education and see how easy it can be to deliver content to students at varying levels of literacy development.

Conversational Japanese

In each lesson, you'll learn useful conversational phrases and vocabulary words particular to a specific area of travel. You'll practice these in drills, interactive exercises, and dialogues. Throughout the course, you'll find helpful audio aids and Japanese words written in the English alphabet.

Creating Web Pages (3 levels)

Create and post your very own Web site on the Internet using HTML in this extensive, hands-on, six week workshop.

Creating WordPress Websites

Learn how to create attractive, sophisticated blogs and websites—without any coding! WordPress is the world's most popular website publisher, powering more than 25% of all sites on the Internet. WordPress is an easy-to-use solution that will help you put your site on the Web in far less time than by coding, and at a much lower cost than hiring a professional.

Designing Effective Websites

Regardless of your current skills or level of knowledge, in this course you'll master the basics of Web design and learn how to build sites that are better and more effective. Get ready to take your Web design skills to the next level!

GMAT Preparation

Taking this course will provide you with test-taking techniques and methods for improving your score and saving time on all GMAT question types. You'll review the more familiar questions and learn how to approach question types that may be new to you, like critical reasoning and data sufficiency.

Grammar Refresher

This course will help you gain confidence in your ability to produce clean, grammatically correct work. You'll explore the basics of English grammar—like sentence structure and punctuation—as well as more sophisticated concepts—like logic and clarity.

GRE Preparation 1

Part 1 takes you through all the question types on the verbal reasoning and analytical writing sections, including reading comprehension, text completion, sentence equivalence questions, and both essay tasks.

GRE Preparation 2

Part 2 features a math review and techniques for tackling the quantitative comparison, data interpretation, and standard math questions that make up the quantitative reasoning sections, as well as how to tackle the GRE's unique new question formats.

Happy and Healthy Pregnancy

In this course, you'll learn how the different stages of pregnancy will affect your body, your moods and emotions, and even your relationships.

How to Get Started in Game Development

Whether you want to start your own indie game project in your basement or work with a small creative team or for a large game development studio, this course will prepare you to start developing your own games.

Instant Italian

This course also makes it simple to master your pronunciation of Italian. Essential words and phrases are written phonetically by using sounds that are familiar to you from English words.

Introduction to Crystal Reports

Designed for Crystal Reports XI, Crystal Reports 2008, and Crystal Reports 2011, this course will teach you how to transform the information that lies buried in your database or accounting program into clear, easy-to-understand documents.

Introduction to Windows 10

Windows 10, the completely new operating system from Microsoft, which offers a more robust, more powerful, and completely unique computing experience. In this course, you'll gain the foundation you need to get started right away using Windows 10.

Keyboarding

If you want to learn touch-typing or improve your existing typing skills, this is the perfect course for you! In these lessons, you'll use the Keyboarding Pro 5 program, a typing tutorial designed for personal computers, to learn how to touch-type—that is, to type text you read from a printed page or a computer screen without looking at your keyboard.

Learn to Buy and Sell on eBay

Online auctions match buyers with sellers in a global marketplace for almost any item. If you've ever dreamed of working from home or just earning extra income by buying and selling goods online, our experienced instructors will guide you every step of the way.

LSAT Preparation Part 1

Part 1 provides an overview of law school entrance procedures, a career in law and law school survival techniques.

LSAT Preparation Part 2

Part 2 features a math review and techniques for tackling the quantitative comparison, data interpretation, and standard math questions that make up the quantitative reasoning sections, as well as how to tackle the GRE's unique new question formats.

Marketing Your Business on the Internet

You'll learn how search engine optimization (SEO) works and how to track your site's performance using Web analytics. You'll understand how to use online advertising, email marketing, and social media (including blogs) to drive business to your Web site.

Online Career Training Courses

Gaston College, in partnership with ed2go, offers non-credit online open enrollment programs designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional level positions for many in-demand occupations. Our programs are designed by a team of professionals from each respective field, providing you with effective web-based learning programs. Instructors/mentors are actively involved in your online learning experience, responding to any questions or concerns, as well as encouraging and motivating you to succeed. Please visit the following link to embark on your career training journey today!

Quickbooks 2015

Learn to manage the financial aspects of your small business quickly and efficiently with this powerful accounting software program. QuickBooks is designed especially for the small- to midsized-business owner who needs a fully functional accounting system that's also easy to use.

SAT/ACT Preparation Part 1

Making the decision to attend college is probably one of the most important decisions you'll ever make, and your performance on college entrance exams is instrumental in determining your college choice. Universities and colleges throughout the U.S. require applicants to take the SAT or ACT as part of their evaluation package. This course will prepare you for both tests.

SAT/ACT Preparation Part 2

Preparation Part 2 will give you all the information you need to do well on the math questions of the ACT and the new SAT. The ACT math tests your knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and basic statistics. This course provides you with a complete math review of all these subjects.

Solving Classroom Discipline Problems

Why do some teachers enjoy peaceful, orderly classrooms while others face daily discipline battles? The answer is that some teachers know the secrets to solving discipline problems. This course reveals those secrets and presents a step-by-step approach to effective, positive classroom discipline.

Speed Spanish

Imagine yourself speaking, reading and writing Spanish. Now you can with Speed Spanish! This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn Spanish pronto. You'll learn six easy recipes for gluing Spanish words together to form sentences. In no time at all, you'll be able to go into any Spanish speaking situation and converse in Spanish. ¡Qué Bueno!

Speed Spanish Bundle

Imagine yourself soon being able to speak, read, and write Spanish. This 18-week online series of three courses will give you everything you need to know to learn the Spanish language. The first course will provide you with the basics while the second course provides you with what you need to become more comfortable conversing in Spanish-speaking situations. The third course will give you the advanced knowledge you need to master the Spanish language.

Teaching Smarter with SMART Board

In this class, you'll discover how to create outstanding presentations with SMART Board and SMART Notebook technology. You'll explore the basics of using these tools and discover how to create your own SMART board lessons blending text, videos, and graphics.

The Creative Classroom

Develop creative new approaches to field trips, learning labs, activities, exercises, assignments, and evaluation methods. Think beyond the textbook and challenge your students by making your classroom a creative classroom!

Understanding the Cloud

We'll start by looking at the building blocks of the cloud, where it started, and how it transitioned from an experiment into an unstoppable force. You'll also gain a clear understanding of IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS, and see why each may be attractive to some businesses, but not others. And you'll learn about the different kinds of clouds (public, private, and hybrid).

Using Social Media in Business

As you progress through the course, you'll master a simple process for making social media work for you. You'll learn about the five most popular social media platforms—Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Google+—and study secrets for using them and other social media platforms to promote your business.

CERTIFIED SIX SIGMA GREEN BELT - ONLINE

In this course, you'll learn how to effectively apply the concepts and methods of Six Sigma. You'll discover how value-stream mapping, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), process capability, control charts, statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), and many more—can increase your overall quality IQ. After completing this course, you'll be prepared to sit for the Six Sigma Green Belt certification exam offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) as well as be positioned to add value to a wide variety of organizations, including manufacturing companies, service operations, and the government sector. This program is entirely online and is completed at your own pace. When you register, you receive six (6) months to complete this program. Exam cost included.

COMPLETE LIST OF ADVANCE CAREER TRAINING COURSES

Gaston College, in partnership with ed2go, offers non-credit online open enrollment programs designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional level positions for many in-demand occupations. Our programs are designed by a team of professionals from each respective field, providing you with effective web-based learning programs. Instructors/mentors are actively involved in your online learning experience, responding to any questions or concerns, as well as encouraging and motivating you to succeed. Please visit the following link to embark on your career training journey today!

COMPTIA A+ CERTIFICATION TRAINING – ONLINE

The CompTIA™ A+ Certification is a critical first step in opening the door to your IT career. Throughout this program, you will learn the essential skills needed to start a career working within the industry. This program will prepare you for CompTIA A+ certification. You can earn this certification after you pass two exams. The CompTIA A+ Certification Exam 220-901, covers the foundational hardware knowledge a PC support technician should know. The CompTIA A+ Certification Exam 220-902 covers the operating system, virtualization, mobile device management and hardware troubleshooting skills. Upon completion of the program, you will be given vouchers to take two CompTIA™ certification exams. (CompTIA 220-901 and 220-902) This program is entirely online and is completed at your own pace. When you register, you receive six (6) months to complete this program. Exam vouchers included.

SENIOR PROFESSIONAL IN HUMAN RESOURCES - ONLINE

Are you currently in human resources and wanting to move to the next level? In this online program you will master the skills needed to advance your human resources career. Designed for experienced Human Resource Professionals, this program will prepare you for the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and Society for Human Resources (SHRM-SCP) certification exams. You may begin this program at any time and will be given six months to complete the training.

Adult High School

The Adult High School Diploma program (AHS) offers you a chance to complete the credits you did not earn in high school and receive a high school diploma through an agreement with the NC Community College System, the NC Department of Public Instruction, and Gaston and Lincoln County Schools.

Basic Skills Plus

We offer the Basic Skills Plus Program for students seeking an Adult High School diploma or High School Equivalency diploma and would like to begin training for certification in the high demand careers of Welding, Office Administration, or Computer-Integrated Machining Technology.

English as a Second Language

English as a Second Language (ESL) provides instruction for individuals with limited English proficiency. ESL stresses development of basic language skills in preparation for daily life, employment, and citizenship.

Gaston College NCWorks NEXTGEN

Gaston College NCWorks NEXTGEN program is federally funded and designed to help young adults achieve their educational and employment goals. NCWorks NEXTGEN's ultimate goal is to educate and prepare young adults for self-sufficiency in the world of work and life.

GED®/HSE Testing

The GED® Test is the test students take to earn their High School Equivalency Diploma. When a student reaches the High School Equivalency level the student and instructor work closely to prepare for practice and official GED® testing.

High School Equivalency

High School Equivalency focuses on the preparation for the GED® exam, which includes four tests in the areas of Reasoning through Language Arts (RLA), Social Studies, Science, and Math.

Automotive

Anyone needing to attend a NC Auto Inspection class (Safety and/or OBD II) must register and pay prior to class. This has eliminated the need for billing or collecting payments & registrations the night of class.

Defensive Driving

Our defensive driving courses are designed with this need in mind. Each of our three class options will teach you how to make the safest choices behind the wheel.

Escort Vehicle Certification

This 8-hour class is available for new certifications required by North Carolina General Statutes for oversized/overweight vehicle escorts.

Escort Vehicle Renewal

This 4-hour provides the renewal certification required by the North Carolina General Statutes for oversize/overweight vehicle escorts.

Motorcycle Basic Rider Course - Two Wheel

Learn to control your motorcycle and reduce the risks involved in riding. Although the DMV motorcycle skills test will be waived, the course does not exempt each applicant from taking the required North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles written test. Some insurance companies give a discount upon successful completion of the class. This is a Saturday and Sunday class. (Insurance included.)

Motorcycle Basic Rider Course - Three Wheel

This is a basic, entry-level, learn-to-ride 3-wheel motorcycle training and education course. It provides the same fundamental skills as the MSF Basic RiderCourse, but on 3-wheel, 3-track motorcycles (not sidecars). RiderCoaches who have been trained and certified by the MSF conduct the course, which consists of both classroom and hands-on instruction including classroom instruction, riding exercises and a knowledge and skill test. A completion card and a DMV Skills Test License Waiver will be issued on successful completion of the course.

Basic Self-Defense

This course introduces the student to self-defense concepts. It covers the planning, tools, and skills required for effective self-defense. Focused on awareness and preparation a comprehensive self-defense plan seeks to identify and avoid danger and eliminate threats as early as possible. Rather than teaching fighting it teaches de-escalation, avoidance, and threat management. This course is appropriate for both men and women. The instructor Mr. Gilbert has over forty years of training in self-defense, physical security and related topics.

Custom Leather Holster Making

Learn how to make a custom leather holster molded to students’ pistol or revolver of choice.

Genealogy and Family History, Beginners & Advanced

Want to learn how to do basic genealogical and local historical research using pertinent records, Internet search opportunities, and other sources? This class will prepare the beginner to do research, survey and select appropriate documents, evaluate documents and research plans, and will provide opportunities to organize and analyze materials. Field trips will be part of the class.

Safety and Self-Defense

Shunpookan Aikido is a traditional, self-defense focused system, affiliated with the Aikido founder’s original Hombu Dojo based in Japan. Aikido takes a non-competitive approach to self-defense and teaches realistic form of self-defense that uses techniques and movement rather than striking and strength to deter attacks. We seek to control the environment to prevent attacks, and if that is not possible, control the attacker to minimize damage to ourselves or those we are responsible for. Aikido as a martial art is appropriate for both men and women of all sizes. Keyword: Defense

Speed Spanish Bundle

Imagine yourself soon being able to speak, read, and write Spanish. This 18-week online series of three courses will give you everything you need to know to learn the Spanish language. The first course will provide you with the basics while the second course provides you with what you need to become more comfortable conversing in Spanish-speaking situations. The third course will give you the advanced knowledge you need to master the Spanish language.

Basic Law Enforcement Training

Gaston College provides the basic training that leads to state certification. BLET is an intensive curriculum program of 648 hours (17 weeks – full-time day class; 39 weeks – part-time evening class) that includes both classroom and practical applications.

Criminal Justice Academy (CJA)

Criminal Justice Education and Training and Standards rules require that every law enforcement officer certified in NC must receive 24 credits of in-service training annually.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SCIENCE - PARAMEDIC AAS TRACK

The Emergency Medical Science curriculum provides individuals with the knowledge, skills and attributes to provide advanced emergency medical care as a paramedic for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system and prepares graduates to enter the workforce.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SCIENCE - PARAMEDIC AAS BRIDGING TRACK

The Emergency Medical Science, Paramedic Bridging Track is a degree completion track allowing certified non-degree Paramedics to achieve an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Science. This program is comprised of major EMS courses along with related courses required in the curriculum.

Fire Protection Technology

The Fire Protection Technology curriculum is designed to provide individuals with technical and professional knowledge to make decisions regarding fire protection for both public and private sectors. It also provides a sound foundation of continuous higher learning in fire protection, administration, and management.

Fire and Rescue Training

Learn more about the program and training calendars.

NC Breathing Equipment and Firefighter Survival School

This course is the premier fire training school that prepares experienced firefighters to operate in smoke and heat conditions to create survivable environments during crisis situations. This is an advanced training class that is physically and psychologically demanding and is designed for capable and qualified individuals.

Regional Emergency Services Training Center (RESTC)

It is the intent of the Gaston College Regional Emergency Services Training Center to provide basic, continuing, and advanced training to all areas of emergency services – fire, rescue, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and customized Industrial Fire Brigade Training across the southeast.

Automotive Mechanics

This course covers the theory, construction, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of internal combustion engines and related systems. Topics include fundamental operating principles of engines and diagnosis, inspection, adjustment, and repair of automotive engines using appropriate service information. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic diagnosis, measurement and repair of automotive engines using appropriate tools, equipment, procedures, and service information.

Industrial Safety

This course introduces the principles of industrial safety. Emphasis is placed on industrial safety and OSHA regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of a safe working environment and OSHA compliance. Students will pay additional $10 for OSHA card during class, date to be determined by instructor.

Introduction to Business/Business Management

This course provides a survey of the business world. Topics include the basic principles and practices of contemporary business. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of business concepts as a foundation for studying other business subjects. For book information on this course, please email or call the Gaston College Bookstore at bookstore@gaston.edu or 704-922-6428.

Introduction to Computers

This course provides an overview of computer concepts. Emphasis is placed on the use of personal computers and software applications for personal and fundamental workplace use. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate basic personal computer skills. For book information on this course, please email or call the Gaston College Bookstore at bookstore@gaston.edu or 704-922-6428. Must have access to Microsoft Office/Office 365.

Machining Applications I

This course provides an introduction to a variety of material-working processes that are common to the machining industry. Topics include safety, process-specific machining equipment, measurement devices, set-up and layout instruments, and common shop practices. Upon completion, students should be able to safely demonstrate basic machining operations, accurately measure components, and effectively use layout instruments. For book information on this course, please email or call the Gaston College Bookstore at bookstore@gaston.edu or 704-922-6428.

Radio and Sports TV Broadcasting

This course provides direct experience as sportscasters for local sporting events. Emphasis is placed on the application of skills through direct participation in the production and distribution of sporting events. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in interviewing athletes and coaches, as well as writing and producing feature material for broadcast. **Additional time spent outside of class at 5+ games to successfully complete broadcasting requirement and course. For more information, please email us at ConEd@gaston.edu.

Rigging and Moving

This course covers the principles of safe rigging practices for handling, placing, installing, and moving heavy machinery and equipment. Topics include safety, weight and dimensional estimation, positioning of equipment slings, rollers, jacks, levers, dollies, ropes, chains, padding, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to safely relocate and set up equipment using accepted rigging practices. Additional Information: This course requires additional coursework to be conducted via the Internet/Blackboard. Access to the Blackboard information will be emailed prior to the beginning of class. For more information, please email us at ConEd@gaston.edu.

Scholarships-Workforce Development/Continuing Education

Gaston College Workforce Development/Continuing Education students are highly encouraged to apply for available scholarships and/or grants in several of our courses. Scholarships and grants are offered as long as funding remains available in the following programs:

Apprenticeship 321 Advanced Manufacturing

Fun, hands-on lab sessions where high school students will be exposed to the advanced manufacturing career pathways offered through Apprenticeship 321. This Summer Camp will include classroom instruction led by the Apprenticeship faculty and tours at companies participating in Apprenticeship 321. If registered with the Apprenticeship 321 Pre-Apprenticeship program, Summer Camp is included in your program. (KEYWORD: Manufacturing)

Battle Royals Gamers

Fans of Fortnite and Rumbleverse, we need YOU! Instead of just playing a multiplayer game, develop your own with Unity, a professional 3D game development software. Design your own unique magical level, build 3D models, and cast spells with custom-created wands. At the end of the week, all student-created maps are combined into a master game where you will battle to become the last wizard standing. Compete against other schools across the country in our Esports League, with the possibility of having your map included in the live game. Student-created games will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. (KEYWORD: Battle)

College & Career Exploration

Thinking about your future? Participants will learn how to discover a variety of career pathways and the education needed to pursue career interests. This session will include on-campus tours and guest speakers! (KEYWORD: Career)

First Aid & CPR

This course follows the most recent and updated 2020 Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) and AHA guidelines, and has been designed to help you acquire the skills you will need to effectively respond in an emergency. CPR Card will be issued upon completion of the course which can be useful in personal or professional jobs such as child care and lifeguard. (KEYWORD: Aid)

Hands Only CPR

Our hands can do so many things, and the most important may be saving someone’s life! The power is in YOUR hands. This interactive course teaches the two important steps to save a life. Students who complete the course successfully will receive a certificate at the end of class. (KEYWORD: CPR)

Make Your First Video Game

Our classic game design camp reimagined to include even more of what you love! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that gives you the keys to designing your first 2D platformer game. Conceptualization, level design, graphics, sounds, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we’ll explore. No prior experience is necessary, just a desire to have fun! Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. (KEYWORD: Make)

Python Programmers

Want to learn the world's fastest-growing programming language favored by Google, NASA, YouTube, and the CIA? Learn how to code with Python to create engaging apps and games. Each lesson takes you step-by-step on a programming path that will let you challenge friends with fun content you create from start to finish! Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years . Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. (KEYWORD: Python)

Racing Games with Unity

On your marks, get set, and create! Blast off in making your first 3D Mario Kart® and Crash Team Racing® style game! Design your own tracks and customize your karts and characters. Using Unity, a professional 3D game development software, students will combine their creations into their own kart racing game that they can play with friends and family at home. Students can participate in Esports League races against other schools across the country with a chance to have their tracks featured in the Black Rocket master build of the game! Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. (KEYWORD: Racing)

YouTube Content Creators

Find your voice and leave your mark on the world! Whether you are six or sixteen, it’s time to start a career as the next YouTube star. Explore the variety of content and personalities that exist on YouTube and how to find your own niche. Learn the Dos and Don’ts of the platform and how to practice good digital citizenship. Develop your on-camera presence, your own channel branding, and professional editing skills. Take home a plan for launching your own channel with the content created in class! Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. (KEYWORD: YouTube)