By Kelsey Meshell
SHREVEPORT, LA. – Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) has joined forces with the Shreveport Police Department and the Shreveport Fire Department for a new partnership. The goal of this collaboration is to provide an exciting opportunity for Automotive Technology students at NLTCC to gain hands-on experience by working on police and fire department vehicles.
On October 31, 2023, an agreement was signed between NLTCC and the Shreveport Police Department and Fire Department, marking the official launch of this unique program on the Shreveport campus. Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith, and Shreveport Fire Chief Clarence Reese were present at the signing ceremony. The program aims to prepare students for their future careers in the automotive industry by offering them a one-of-a-kind internship experience during the last six months of their studies.
Students in the Automotive Technology program at NLTCC will be able to work side by side with experienced auto technicians from the Shreveport Police Department and the Shreveport Fire Department. This real-world experience will provide valuable training and skills that will help them transition smoothly into the workforce. The students will receive compensation for their work, and all the necessary tools and resources will be provided to them.
NLTCC’s Chancellor, Dr. Jayda Spillers, said about the partnership, “We are excited to partner with the City of Shreveport in this endeavor to increase the pool of qualified automotive technician applicants within the City of Shreveport Police and Fire Departments. The opportunity to participate in internships will be a valuable addition to the hands-on curriculum that is provided through the Automotive program at NLTCC. Students will have an opportunity to apply their training in a real-world environment that will increase technical and workplace skills. It is our hope that this opportunity will lead to full-time employment upon graduation and keep our students working in our community.”
The collaboration between NLTCC, the Shreveport Police Department, and the Shreveport Fire Department is a significant step towards creating opportunities for students to gain valuable experience in the automotive field. This initiative not only benefits the students but also strengthens the Shreveport community by providing a skilled workforce and encouraging the retention of talent in the city. It’s an exciting development that promises to have a positive impact on the future of Shreveport.
To learn more about NLTCC’s programs and enroll, call 318-371-3035 or visit www.nltcc.edu. Start your journey towards a fulfilling career with NLTCC.