College of the Mainland (COM) is excited to launch a new Dual Enrollment Process Technology (PTEC) Program, designed to give high school students an early start on a high-demand, high-wage career path. This innovative partnership between COM and our local school districts reflects our shared commitment to preparing students for success in both college and the workforce.
Overview and Advantages
Through this new initiative, eligible high school students will be able to enroll in college-level PTEC courses while completing their high school diploma. Students will gain hands-on experience with the same industry-standard equipment and safety practices used in the Gulf Coast region’s petrochemical and refining industry fields that continue to offer strong career growth and stability for our community.
This dual enrollment pathway provides students with several key advantages:
- Early Career Exploration: Students can explore the world of process technology before graduation, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers.
- College Credit and Cost and Time Savings: Participants earn college credit, saving time and money toward a degree or certificate at COM.
- Workforce Readiness: By mastering technical and problem-solving skills early, students will be prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education with a strong foundation.
- Pathway to High-Demand Careers: The PTEC field remains one of the region’s most stable and rewarding career areas, with excellent employment prospects and competitive salaries.
This initiative exemplifies COM’s mission to empower student success and strengthen community partnerships by aligning educational opportunities with regional workforce needs.
Full-Time Student Schedule
| Semester #1 | Semester Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| PTAC 1302 | Introduction to Process Technology | 3 |
| PTAC 1308 | Safety, Health, and Environment I | 3 |
| Semester Credit Hours | 6 | |
| Semester #2 | ||
| PTAC 1310 | Process Technology I - Equipment | 3 |
| Semester Credit Hours | 3 | |
| Semester #3 | ||
| PTAC 1332 | Process Instrumentation I | 3 |
| Semester Credit Hours | 3 | |
| Semester #4 | ||
| PTAC 2420 | Process Technology II - Systems | 4 |
| Semester Credit Hours | 4 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 16 | |