EACC Connections

Welcome to EACC Connections, the quarterly email newsletter from the Elkhart Area Career Center! Our goal with this newsletter is to keep you updated about events and opportunities at the EACC with news that is informative and quick to read.

Please be sure to follow our EACC Facebook page for day-to-day activity at the EACC and check out our EACC website for detailed information about our programs!

The Elkhart Area Career Center (EACC) is thrilled to announce the addition of a high-fidelity simulation medical manikin to our suite of healthcare programs, including Pre-Nursing, EMT, Cardiology, Surgical Services, and Exercise Science. Fondly named "Annie," this advanced training tool is revolutionizing how our students engage with hands-on learning in preparation for careers in healthcare.

First, let’s clear up a common misconception - medical simulation manikins are not the same as mannequins, the static figures you see in store displays. Simulation manikins are highly sophisticated, lifelike training devices designed to simulate real human patients. Simulation manikins like Annie can mimic heart rate and rhythms, pulses, respirations and lung sounds, blood pressures, and other key diagnostic traits. This lifelike nature provides students with the opportunity to perform interventions such as urinary catheterizations, IVs, nasogastric tubes and much more. Annie's realistic hospital bedside monitor helps to provide the bigger picture as students develop critical thinking skills focusing on the needs of patients.

Annie is equipped with a hospital bed, crash cart, IV equipment, oxygen devices, and a programmable bedside monitor, providing students with an authentic clinical environment. These tools enable EACC students to practice critical healthcare scenarios in a safe, controlled setting before working with actual patients.

Our Pre-Nursing students are already utilizing Annie to hone their skills in areas like patient care, vital sign monitoring, and emergency response. The program, which prepares students to pursue careers in nursing and healthcare, has a proven record of developing professional, skilled graduates. Learn more about the Pre-Nursing program: EACC Pre-Nursing Program

Adding Annie to our programs offers numerous advantages:

• Realistic Training Scenarios: Students can practice complex medical procedures and decision-making without risking patient safety.
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Annie supports multiple programs, fostering collaboration among students studying Pre-Nursing, EMT, Cardiology, Surgical Services, and Exercise Science.
• Confidence Building: By working through hands-on scenarios, students gain confidence in their skills and readiness for real-world situations.

With the addition of Annie, EACC continues to prioritize innovation and excellence in career education. By providing our students with cutting-edge tools and training, we’re shaping the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals.

To further enhance Annie’s capabilities, EACC is seeking donations of medical materials (portable suction, a wall-mountable mock oxygen source/flow meter, SCDs, 6 lead telemetry, IV pump, IV fluids, IV tubing, IV placement kits, IV catheter needles and a port access kit) from healthcare organizations. Expired materials are welcome and can play a valuable role in creating realistic training scenarios.

For more information or to discuss donations, please contact us. Together, we can ensure our students have the resources they need to succeed!

Learn more about EACC's healthcare-related programs and see them (and Annie!) in person at our Open House on Sunday, January 26 from 1:30-3:30pm: Cardiology, Emergency Medical Tech, Exercise Science, Pre-Nursing, Surgical Services, and Dental Assisting.

We’re excited to announce that the Elkhart Area Career Center’s Automotive Service Program has officially received ASE Program Accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation!

This achievement reflects the EACC's commitment to maintaining industry standards of excellence in automotive education. It ensures that EACC students are receiving high-quality training aligned with ASE standards and opens the door for them to take ASE certification tests, a critical step in launching successful careers in the automotive industry.

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Accreditation is a national recognition awarded to programs that meet the rigorous standards set by the ASE Education Foundation. It ensures that automotive training programs provide students with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience required to succeed in the automotive industry. Accreditation signifies that a program prepares students to meet current industry demands and trains them to become employable, entry-level technicians.

To earn ASE Program Accreditation, the Automotive Service Program underwent a rigorous evaluation process designed to assess the program's alignment with industry expectations. Here are the key steps we completed:

1. Self-Evaluation – Our instructors conducted an in-depth review of the program, ensuring our curriculum, equipment, and facilities met or exceeded ASE standards.
2. Advisory Committee Input – We collaborated with an advisory committee of industry experts who provided valuable feedback on how to enhance and align our program with the latest industry needs.
3. On-Site Evaluation – An ASE Education Foundation representative visited the EACC to assess our program’s compliance with national standards in areas like instruction quality, student skills, tools and equipment, and facilities.
4. Continuous Improvement Plan – Following the evaluation, we finalized strategies to maintain high standards and adapt to evolving industry trends.

Earning accreditation signifies that EACC’s Automotive Service Program meets strict national standards and is prepared to develop students into employable, entry-level technicians ready to excel in the workforce.

Did you know? The EACC's Automotive Service Program is the only locally accredited ASE program for secondary students in the region - an accomplishment we’re incredibly proud of!

The EACC's Automotive Services program became an ASE accredited program in July 1996 with renewals in 2002, 2008, 2013, 2018, and 2024.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our Automotive Service instructors - Mr. Marty Hostetler and Mr. Stephen Jones - and our students for their hard work and dedication. This recognition is a testament to their excellence and our collective commitment to preparing students for success in the automotive industry.

Learn more about EACC's Automotive Services Program and see it in person at our Open House on Sunday, January 26 from 1:30-3:30pm: Automotive Services

Learn more about the ASE Program Accreditation: ASE Program Accreditation

Three programs at the Elkhart Area Career Center (EACC) have joined forces to support the Tolson Center for Community Excellence as it prepares for its inaugural fundraiser in its new building on February 14. Tolson reached out to EACC students for assistance in creating compelling testimonials for the event - a request that led to a truly collaborative and enriching experience for everyone involved.

EACC’s Photography students played a key role in bringing personal stories to life by taking professional headshots of the individuals sharing testimonials, including adults and children of all ages. For many of the students, this was their first time photographing individuals’ headshots on location and outside of a studio.

Photography instructor Pat Brownewell emphasized the value of such opportunities, noting that real-world experiences like these are invaluable confidence builders for students. “It’s one thing to learn techniques in the classroom,” Brownewell shared, “but it’s another to apply those skills in a professional environment. This project allowed students to step out of their comfort zones and grow.”

Audio Video Production students took on the task of conducting and compiling interviews for a 3-5 minute testimonial video, which will be shown at the event. Their interviews included community members, children, and Tolson’s executive director, Dr. Breanna Allen. The students asked thoughtful questions such as, “How has Tolson impacted your life?” and “Why did you get involved with Tolson?”

For Audio Video student Peyten, the experience was both exciting and educational. “It’s been fun helping Tolson generate support for their fundraiser,” she said. “I learned a lot about framing questions to get meaningful answers, and visiting Tolson in person helped me see and connect with the organization’s impact firsthand.”

Audio Video teacher Kenny Helbling expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Our students are genuinely excited about this project,” he said. “Helping a non-profit like Tolson is not only rewarding but also a great way to give back to the community.”

Graphic Design students contributed by creating testimonial cards that will be placed at each table setting during the event. The students submitted 14 unique card designs for Tolson’s board to review, incorporating the organization’s brand guidelines, including fonts, logos, and visual elements.

“It feels good to help a community agency grow and expand their impact,” shared one Graphic Design student. “It’s satisfying to brainstorm ideas for a non-profit and then see the final product come to life.”

Amber Kosar, the Graphic Design instructor, is proud of her students’ work and appreciates Tolson’s faith in their abilities. “Tolson is clearly committed to community-driven collaborations,” Kosar noted.

“I’m thrilled that our students were invited to participate. They’ve been invited to attend the fundraiser, which will be a wonderful networking opportunity and a chance to showcase the high level of work they’ve done.”

This project highlights the unique collaborative spirit of EACC, with three programs working together to support Tolson’s mission. From capturing powerful images to creating a compelling video and designing eye-catching testimonial cards, the students demonstrated the value of teamwork and applied learning.

Tolson’s executive director, Dr. Breanna Allen, is eager to share her thoughts on the collaboration and its impact.

“Young people are our future leaders," says Dr. Breanna Allen, Executive Director of the Tolson Center for Community Excellence. “The collaboration with our local students just made sense to build on a foundation of excellence. We are proud to cultivate a space where collaboration drives excellence. Together, we’re shaping not just high-quality work, but a brighter future - one where education, community, and innovation meet."

The collaboration between EACC and the Tolson Center exemplifies the power of partnerships in creating meaningful community impact. By combining their skills and talents, EACC students have not only gained valuable professional experience but also contributed to a cause that will benefit countless individuals in the community for years to come.

Learn more about The Tolson Center for Community Excellence: Tolson Center

Learn more about the EACC’s programs and see them in person at our Open House on Sunday, January 26 from 1:30-3:30pm: Audio-Video, Commercial Photography, and Graphic Design

Step into the hallways of the Elkhart Area Career Center on Mock Interview Day, and you’ll witness a transformation. Nervous students clutch their resumes, preparing for what feels like their first big step into adulthood. After their interviews, those same students exhale deeply, their anxiety replaced with pride and relief. Their smiles say it all: “I can do this.”

When: Thursday, March 20, 2025
Where: Elkhart Area Career Center
Volunteer Registration: EACC Mock Interview Registration 2025

Last year, nearly 200 volunteers came together to conduct over 1,200 interviews in just five hours. The feedback and encouragement students received from professionals like you made a lasting impact, preparing them to step into real-world job interviews with confidence.

This year, with a record number of students at the EACC, your participation is more critical than ever. As a volunteer, you’ll play a key role in helping students refine their interview skills, strengthen their resumes, and gain the self-assurance they need to succeed in their career paths.

“Our students leave this event not only more prepared but truly empowered,” shares EACC Director Brandon Eakins. “You can see it in their faces - they walk away ready to tackle their future.”

Whether you’re a seasoned hiring manager or simply someone passionate about helping young people succeed, your time will have an immeasurable impact. Imagine knowing you’ve helped a student overcome their nerves and walk into their first real job interview with confidence and poise!

Register here: EACC Mock Interview Registration 2025

Sign up today to reserve your spot and help us make 2025 Mock Interview Day a success. Together, we can equip EACC students with the skills and confidence they need to take their next big steps into the future.

Thank you for being part of our students’ success stories. We can’t wait to see you there!

If you have any questions about Mock Interview Day, please contact Brenda Metcalfe, Career Coordinator, at bmetcalfe@elkhart.k12.in.us.

Please join us for our Open House on Sunday, January 26 from 1:30-3:30pm!

This event provides a unique opportunity for students in grades 8-11 from local school districts to explore the diverse, hands-on programs offered at EACC. Students can attend the EACC in grades 11-12. Current Grade 10 students can apply between late January and March.

WHAT: EACC OPEN HOUSE

• Tour state-of-the-art labs and classrooms
• Meet instructors and current students to learn about program specifics
• Discover pathways to tuition-free college credits and industry certifications
• Learn how EACC prepares students for immediate career success or post-secondary education

WHEN:

Sunday, January 26, from 1:30pm - 3:30pm

WHERE:

Elkhart Area Career Center, 2424 California Road, Elkhart, IN 46514
All EACC buildings will be open

WHY ATTEND:

See how the Elkhart Area Career Center is shaping the future workforce with innovative programs and hands-on training. Whether a high school student’s goal is to earn college credits, gain certifications, or jumpstart a rewarding career, the EACC can help them achieve it.

The EACC offers 30 dynamic, half-day programs for high school juniors and seniors, spanning fields like pre-law, healthcare, construction trades, automotive service, cosmetology, culinary arts, early childhood education, and more.

A heartfelt thank you to our 2024-2025 school year sponsors:

• Big C Lumber

• Foundations for Early Childhood Excellence

• Growing Kids Learning Centers

• Gurley Leep Automotive Family

• Ironworkers Local 292

• MacAllister Machinery

• Monteith's Best-One Tire and Automotive Care

• Truck Centers Inc

• Utilimaster

• Whiteford Kenworth

Your support helps ensure continued success and growth of EACC programs and students. We sincerely appreciate your support!

Interested in sponsoring the EACC? Contact Brandon Eakins, Director, at beakins@elkhart.k12.in.us

Do you have suggestions for the EACC newsletter? Was this forwarded to you and you'd like to be on the distribution list? Please email Brenda Metcalfe (bmetcalfe@elkhart.k12.in.us).