Sowela Technical Community College received approval this summer from the Louisiana Board of Regents to begin offering an Associate of Applied Science degree in Technical Studies this fall. The two-year program includes a general education core with a Technical Diploma in Carpentry, Forest Technology, Vehicle Maintenance and Repair or Welding. Students in these programs with the Technical Studies degree can now seamlessly transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree program, empowering them to continue their education and expand their career opportunities.

“Sowela prides itself on the strong student focus we have created within the institution,” said Sowela Chancellor Neil Aspinwall. “We are constantly looking for ways to ensure our students complete their programs of study and move into the workforce or continue their education at other higher education institutions. The new Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies gives our students an additional transfer option and allows them to earn their four-year degree which will make them even more marketable and eligible for more employment opportunities.”

The Technical Studies degree prepares students to be well-rounded employees in technical fields who have the depth and breadth of knowledge to adapt to the ever-changing workforce. Students can transfer up to 71 credit hours to an in-state four-year institution, saving time and money.

“The new associate’s degree in Technical Studies at Sowela is a game-changer for our students,” said School of Transportation and Applied Technology Dean Robert Null. “It provides a unique opportunity for individuals to gain specialized skills in fields that traditionally did not offer an associate degree. This program not only equips students with the technical expertise needed to excel in their careers but also opens doors to further educational and professional advancement. By bridging this gap, we’re empowering our students to achieve their full potential in the modern workforce.”

The new degree program, with its transfer opportunities, helps retain talent in Louisiana. Additionally, it fosters long-term business benefits by creating a robust local talent pool and offering collaborative opportunities with educational institutions.

According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Sowela’s technical programs are three- and four-star jobs with an average annual salary of up to $75,000.

“The Associate of Applied Science degree in Technical Studies offered at SOWELA was designed to equip students with a solid foundation of technical skills essential for their specific trades while also integrating more advanced studies such as English, Science, and Math,” said SOWELA Technical Studies Student and Interim Assistant Dean Jonathan Darbonne. “This approach ensures that graduates like me are not only proficient in their technical fields but also possess the critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills necessary to progress into leadership roles. By enhancing technical education with broader academic skills, students are better prepared to tackle complex challenges, innovate within their industries and effectively lead teams.”