An open house for career and technical education programs is set from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, at Southwest Colorado Community College.

The public and high school students and parents are welcome. The open houses will be at 33057 U.S. Highway 160, west of Mancos. Refreshments will be served.

Career and technical programs offered at the Mancos campus include medical assistant, nurse aide, cosmetology, emergency medical services, paramedic, fire science, automotive service technology, welding and law enforcement.

Tours of the different areas will be offered, and those attending will be able to get information on different careers and speak to some of the instructors. Those finishing a certificate or degree in career and technical programs are prepared to enter the workforce immediately, with those in health and law enforcement ready to take the state licensing exam.

The commitment to getting training can lead to a career to support the students and their families for the rest of their lives.

For more information, please contact Patrick Flores, coordinator of high school/college relations at (970) 247-2929, extension 7223.

Southwest Colorado Community College has a variety of certificate and associate's degree options in academic and career and technical education fields, including auto mechanics, welding, cosmetology, medical assistant, nurse aide and law enforcement at West campus and nursing, radiology technician, EMS and nurse aide at East campus.