Janessa Everett

Program: Cosmetology

Student of the Month -- May 2013

“Janessa is an excellent student, superior BATC advocate, and an extremely positive person – so helpful and full of integrity. She is a JOY to have around!” -Vanessa Landon-Earley, Department Head

Meet Janessa!

“I am so lucky! I meet adults all the time who dislike their jobs or who have no idea what they really want to do. I haven’t been out of high school that long and I already have a skill I can use to support myself my entire life by doing something I wholeheartedly enjoy.”

“I chose a career in this industry because I’ve always loved doing hair,” says the Perry, Utah native. “It began with styling my Barbie dolls’ hair as a young child. When I was a 12 I did my older sister’s hair and makeup for her senior portraits. When my school counselor told me that I could take the Cosmetology program in high school, I followed my heart and jumped at the chance. “

Janessa began the Cosmetology program the summer of her sophomore year, attended during her junior year, and again the summer of her junior year, then again during her senior year. “I’ve loved every minute of it!” Completing much of the program during high school has saved me a lot of time and money.”

“All the BATC instructors are so kind, friendly, helpful, patient, and willing to work with each of us students, even if you’re not enrolled in their program! I really value the one-on-one time with each of my instructors. They each have unique backgrounds, experience and knowledge and I learn as much as I can from them. Additionally I love that we are required to pass each exam at 90%, while at the state level the bar is set at 75%. I feel extremely confident and well prepared to pass the state boards. I appreciate the level of excellence BATC has set for all their students.”

When asked to identify something she has learned about herself she giggled, “Weirdly enough, I have found that I love giving pedicures. Most people are squeamish about feet, but if you think about it like, “hey, your feet are in your shoes all day and are probably cleaner than your hands.” I really enjoy the process of giving a pedicure, the one-on-one time with my clients, and giving them a relaxing and fun experience.”

No beauty school drop out here; in fact, quite the opposite. Janessa will graduate from BATC on May 9, 2013, with a certificate in Cosmetology as well as Nail Technician. “The hardest part of this journey for me was when I added working on the Nail Technician program while still doing Cosmetology. Monday through Friday, twelve hours a day, I am at BATC. It’s my home away from home!” Janessa is in the Cosmetology lab from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, takes a half hour break, then from 3:00pm to 8:00 pm shifts gears and works on the Nail Technician program. “It’s a long day, but I am so happy and comfortable here. Look what I’ve achieved!”

Julie Henderson

Program: Medical Assisting

Her Instructor Says: "Julie is an excellent student, she is very dependable, professional, and always goes the extra mile. She is an asset to the Medical Assisting program and I have no doubt that she will be a success in all that she does.”

Meet Julie!

“Education has always been important to me,” exclaims Julie. One of eight children, she grew up in Delta, Utah, where she graduated valedictorian of her high school class while being actively involved in the band, orchestra, drill team, school musicals as well as other community events. Julie met and married her husband after attending Utah State University her freshmen year. “When we married, I chose to put my formal education on hold for a time, but never stopped learning and growing. Raising a family is a huge education in and of itself!” chuckles Henderson.

“As a mother of five, I didn’t return to school until my children were all in school and well on their way to being more independent. Eight years ago I enrolled in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course at BATC. Working as a CNA allowed me to work in the evenings and still be home with my children after school. It was a good fit for me until a 10% cut in my husband’s salary necessitated a need to increase my earning capacity. Again, BATC was a good fit for me.” Julie became a Medical Assisting student in August of 2012.

“The Medical Assisting program allows me to attend classes during the day while my kids are away from home. As a career, it’s challenging, rewarding, and fulfills all the needs I have, plus I don’t have to work nights, holidays or weekends. Perfect for busy moms! Medical Assisting is a certification I could complete within a years’ time; at my age tackling a four-year nursing degree didn’t make much sense,” she declares.

“Bridgerland has been a great blessing for me and this community. Without BATC I would have had to commute out of the valley or pursue a four-year degree. I wouldn’t have been able to acquire this certification,” reveals Julie.

Returning to school at any age causes anyone some degree of angst and anxiety. “I was worried I wouldn’t be able to handle the class load and keep up with the younger students. Our brains just don’t work as well as they did when we were younger!” states Henderson. “My daughter is in the program with me. It’s been fun to study together and cheer for one another as we’ve progressed through the program. It’s a unique situation, but I’ve loved having her in my classes. She’s been a great support to me.”

“Education has always been a priority in my family,” declares Julie. “My children have always known what’s expected of them and luckily, all five of them have been 3.9 or 4.0 students. The workplace is so competitive these days. I’m glad my children have figured out that every skill they possess, certificate or degree they earn, only enhances their value with employers.”

Emilee Roberts

Program: Fashion Merchandising

"Emilee is a teacher's dream student. She is self-motivated with a passion to really learn the principles being taught, not just pass curriculum off." -Colette Pulsipher, Department Head/Instructor

Future Plans:“The Fashion Merchandising program has opened my eyes to so many avenues that I could pursue. I have learned so much - I just love it! The fashion industry involves science, economics, business, psychology, art, marketing, etc. All subjects that fascinate me. My dream job would be a stylist, which would give me the opportunity to combine my love for fashion, visual display, marketing, advertising, and sales."

Currently, Emily attends BATC while taking 15 credits this semester at USU. She is shooting to complete the Fashion program at BATC this spring. "It's stressful, it's busy, but I love to be busy! I like to do things that help me keep moving forward."

Matthew Platis

Program: Health Sciences - Pharmacy Technician

"Matt has gone above and beyond to help his fellow classmates by sharing ways to review and learn all the brand and generic drugs the students need to know. Additionally, he is a great student, one of the top in the class!" - Melissa Snyder, Instructor

Future Plans: Matthew has been trading the Forex Currency Market with his father for the last five years. He says, "The market can be crazy and I wanted to pursue something that was much more stable and would provide benefits for my family. I look forward to being a Pharmacy Technician. If I enjoy it as much as I think, I might return to school and become a Pharmacist!"

Tyler Jensen

Program: Information Technology

"Tyler has acquired eight different industry certifications at BATC, which is an amazing accomplishment! Westhost, a local Internet company, recently hired him. They are very pleased with the skills he possesses." - Nick Whelan, Instructor

Melissa Seamons

Program: Media Design

“We are so lucky to have a school like BATC in our area. I have learned so much, the tuition is affordable, and the self-paced environment is a bonus, especially for those of us who work full-time.”

Megan Gillies

Program: Medical Assisting

"In this profession you need to be ready to handle any situation. BATC helped me prepare for the fast-paced career I now enjoy."

Connie Seeholzer

Program: Business Technology

“My family is my highest priority, but education is important as well. At BATC I can successfully manage both! The training is flexible, focused, hands-on, and designed to complete in the shortest time possible.”

Shera Adair

Program: Media Design

“The programs are so great. I’ve never had to wait for anyone or anything at BATC. You can get in the labs and work as needed. You don’t have to worry about scheduling your life around their classes; they work around you. The flexibility is really nice!”

Emily Hudson

Program: Business Technology

“BATC is amazing. It’s great to be able to set your own schedule, pace, and not have to wait for a new semester to begin to learn something new. I love it here!”

Virgil Hutton

Program: Police Academy

“The training I have experienced as a cadet in the program has been life changing. The instructors, along with the brotherhood of fellow cadets, have provided me ample opportunity to learn what it feels like to be a part of a team that is positive and dedicated to helping each other and the public. I am honored to be involved in the Police Academy Program.”

Leslie Bennett

Program: Practical Nursing

“Nursing is an amazing career. BATC is the best place to prepare you for it. You get so many good hands-on experiences. You get instructors who honestly care and classmates who are there to learn. It’s a great atmosphere; a great place to be.”

Julie Wilson

Program: Medical Office Administration

“Getting a job right now is difficult, particularly at my age. I needed to update my skills to meet today’s demands. It’s a different world, but attending BATC has been fun, challenging, and very rewarding!”

Cassidy McCulloch

Program: Business Technology

“Attendance is very important at BATC, but the flexibility they provide means a lot to working students. I thrive on hands-on learning – to work through what I’m learning versus just hearing about it.”

Lizbeth Estrada

Program: Business Technology

“Time is my greatest challenge. I am proud that I have been able to stay in school while working full-time. The focused curriculum, flexible hours, hands-on learning environment, and caring atmosphere have all been a benefit to me!”

Shawn Kinser

Program: Machining Technology

“BATC offers training programs for careers that are in great demand, and I have really enjoyed being in the shop every day to learn and perfect my skills by doing!”

Cari Shakespear

Program: American Sign Language - Interpreter

“You don’t have to travel far to get the quality instructors who care and are dedicated to your success.”

Edward Burningham

Program: Cabinetmaking & Millwork

"Attending BATC has been a lot of fun for me! It's been a great experiential learning opportunity and I look forward to working for myself and creating my own business."

Lee Rindlisbacher

Program:Veterinarian Assistant/Pre-Vet Tech

“BATC is such a nice learning atmosphere and the one-on-one time you get with the instructors is great! The self-paced environment allows students to optimize the way we learn. Everything you do here has relevance and is in context with what you are learning and need to know in the workplace.”

Eisa Jensen

Program: Business Technology

“I have benefitted from my experience at BATC in ways that extend far beyond my new career.”

Carley Buttars

Program: Fashion Merchandising

Carley is looking forward to the fall fashion show and with her classmates has designed an entire set of clothing for the production. Carley started the program while in high school and says, "This program has opened my eyes to so many exciting career paths."

Kari Bogert

Program: Welding Technology

“I expect a lot of myself and want my skills to be the best they can be. The self-paced, hands-on training BATC offers has been great!”

Tera Maughan

Program: Business Technology

"As a busy mother, it's a challenge to add school to the demands on my time with a young family and a growing family business. BATC gave me exactly what I needed!"

Brandon Gleed

Program: Machining Technology

"Bridgerland was the answer for me - I love to learn by doing. The training is fast, affordable, focused, and directed to industry-driven skills. BATC can help you create a life you want!"

Johnathan Durfee

Program: Building Technology

"BATC offers so many choices. The hands-on, focused, industry-driven training from day one is a huge plus!"

Danelle Facer

Program: Veterinarian Assistant/Pre-Vet Tech

"It's great to have a college like BATC so close to home, and the tuition is so affordable. No student debt!"

Scott Layne

Program: Electrician Apprentice

"I am able to work a full-time job while attending class, and still have time for my family!"

Jessica Mikesell

Program: Dental Assisting

"I wanted a better life for myself and my children. BATC has been influential in making that possible."

Ailini Pauni

Program: Culinary Arts

"BATC is the best thing I've ever done for myself. It's a great place to develop skills for a career you're passionate about."

Valanna Skinner

Program: Esthetician

"You'll get the hands-on experience you deserve at BATC. Their instructors are genuinely interested in the success of every one of their students."

Camarah Marianah

Program: e-Commerce

"As a mother of five, I love the schedule flexibility that BATC allows."

Jason Holman

Program: Automotive

"BATC is a great place to focus 100% on what you want to do. I got a job easily while still working on my certification!"

Heather Christensen

Program: Business Technology

"The instructors at BATC teach in a way that represent real life situations. The transition from classroom to workplace is seamless."

Cassandra Rogowski

Program: Practical Nursing

"I am so impressed with BATC. My instructors have such a vast knowledge and experience, which they freely share with us. I'm also impressed with my classmates and their level of competency and commitment."

Amy Schwab

Program: Interior Design

"I love it here at BATC! It's a great learning environment - a fantastic place to learn, be creative, stretch, and challenge your abilities."

Jessica Wuthrich

Program: Dental Assisting

"BATC has amazing instructors and excellent industry-driven training. Don't wait any longer. Get in and do it!"

Michael Bliss

Program: Drafting Technology

"I love the no-nonsense, industry-driven training. The flexible hours, convenient open enrollment, and self-paced environment worked great for my schedule!"

Emily Bassett

Program: Heavy Equipment Operator / CDL

"I can't begin to put a price tag on the knowledge and skills I've gained at BATC. This training has really given me an edge!"

Kelsie Neel

Program: Culinary Arts

"My favorite things about BATC are the immediate hands-on experience, talented instructors, affordable tuition, and great environment."

Katelyn Johnson

Program: Veterinarian Assistant / Pre-Vet Tech

"Not having a big loan to pay back after graduation is great. BATC tuition is so affordable, plus, the hands-on experience is so fun!"

Lola Bott

Program: Business Technology

"It was scary to lose my job and find myself unprepared for today's jobs. At BATC I've gained valuable, in-demand skills and the confidence I need to succeed."

Jose Torres

Program: Diesel "If you love making things run - this is the place to be!"

Teresa Nielsen

Program: Heavy Equipment Operator/CDL

"BATC is a great opportunity - you're mentored by patient, fun, industry-experienced instructors who take a personal interest in your success."

Paul Wood

Program: Machine Technology
"I've been out of school 30 years. All the instructors have been so patient in helping me achieve my goals. It's never too late to shoot for your dreams!"

Tiffany Barrington

Program: e-Commerce
"BATC is a great school. The teachers are always there for you - you're never lost in the crowd. The hands-on environment takes students far beyond the textbook. The skills I've developed are mine for life."

Cami Clawson

Program: Dental Assisting
"The transition from school to career was a breeze because of the extensive hands-on training I enjoyed at BATC."

Jann Atkinson

Program: Interior Design
"As a working mother, BATC offered me the flexibility to complete my program in a timely fashion and still be a good mom."

Scott Kidman

Program: Fire & Rescue Services
"This program prepares you for real life situations. Our instructors took us way beyond the textbook!"

Jared Glenn

Program: Meat Services
"BATC has helped me to discover a new career that I enjoy. I'm confident in the skills I've acquired and know I'm a more valuable asset to my employer because of my training."

Suzanne Bingham

Program: Medical Assisting
"BATC is a great asset to the community and a wonderful place for an adult to go back to school and learn an employable trade."

Keven Clark

Program: Cosmetology
"BATC has been the best opportunity for me. I love the staff, their teaching methods, everything about it! Never give up on your dreams."

Tonya Weston

Kayla Petersen

Program: Veterinarian Assistant/Pre-Vet Tech
"I love working with the animals - and my instructors are so friendly, helpful, and dedicated to my success."

Shandolon Munns

Program: Fashion Merchandising
"BATC is great! It works with my full-time work schedule and I'm developing skills that enhance my value in my career."

Paula Keller

Program: Culinary Arts
BATC is such a fun place to be. I am amazed at everything I've learned!