FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 6, 2025

FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College has signed articulation agreements with the Steel Center for Career and Technical Education and the Forbes Road Career and Technical Center, allowing students to transfer six credit hours into Pierpont’s Veterinary Technology associate degree program.

The agreement, signed by representatives from both centers during a recent visit, provides a streamlined pathway for students to continue their veterinary technology education. The students and representatives from both centers also toured the campus and had lunch.

“We are excited about our partnerships; they create the possibility for students who’ve completed work and developed workforce skills to continue their journey at Pierpont,” said Michael Waide, Ed.D., interim president of Pierpont Community & Technical College. “As a community college, we are privileged to create these opportunities to recognize their hard work by awarding college credit for their prior learning.”

Amy Cunningham, Dean of Pierpont’s School of Health Sciences, added to Pierpont’s excitement, noting, “This innovative articulation agreement between our CTEs and our vet tech program represents a seamless pathway for the students. By bridging secondary and post-secondary education, we’re not only expanding access to in-demand careers but also addressing the critical shortage of skilled veterinary technicians in our communities.”

Forbes Road Career and Technical Center’s Veterinary Assistant Program offers students the chance to learn the skills needed for entry-level positions in the industry and provides the opportunity to pursue post-secondary training and advanced certifications.

Rachel Russell, a Forbes Road Career and Technical Center faculty member, said the partnership is important for “making it easier for students to see their options after high school and for networking.”

The Veterinary Assistant program at the Steel Center for Career and Technical Education prepares individuals to support veterinarians by assisting with animal examinations and treatment.

Kevin Rice, executive director of the Steel Center for Career and Technical Education, said, “Our students can earn college credit through us while they’re with us and then come here. It’s just the next step in our partnership.”

Pierpont’s Veterinary Technology program, accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, prepares students for careers as veterinary technicians. The program covers all aspects of animal health, disease and welfare. For more information, visit pierpont.edu.

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