DACC and SIUC partnership showcases College Express Success with thyssenkrupp apprenticeship graduates
Dec. 17—Danville Area Community College (DACC) is celebrating the achievements of alumni Lorenz Tiu and Caden Brant, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in Industrial Management and Applied Engineering from Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) on Dec. 14.
"These graduates exemplify the success of the DACC and SIUC 2 + 2 partnership and the thyssenkrupp Youth Apprenticeship Program," a news release states.
Tiu and Brant began their academic journeys in high school through College Express, a partnership between DACC and Vermilion Vocational Education Delivery System (VVEDS). Designed to encourage high school completion, increase postsecondary degree attainment, and prepare a skilled workforce, College Express offers dual-credit opportunities to over 400 high school juniors and seniors annually in 16 Career and Technical Education (CTE) areas. Through the program, students attend classes on the DACC campus for one-and-a-half hours daily, earning up to 16 college credits over four semesters — all at no cost to students or families, as tuition, fees, books, and transportation are covered by local high school districts.
Both students participated in the thyssenkrupp Youth Apprenticeship Program during high school while completing their College Express coursework. After earning their associate's degrees in Manufacturing Engineering Technology at DACC, they transitioned seamlessly to SIUC, utilizing the Capstone Articulation Agreement that supports students in earning bachelor's degrees efficiently. Tiu chose weekend classes at an SIUC off-campus site, while Brant opted for the fully online program, both saving time and money by completing their general education requirements at DACC.
Professor Todd Flessner, instructor in Manufacturing Engineering Technology, applauded their accomplishments. "Lorenz and Caden are shining examples of how partnerships between education and industry, such as College Express, thyssenkrupp, and the DACC-SIUC 2 + 2 program, can open doors to outstanding opportunities. Professor Doug Hunter and I are proud of their dedication and success," he said.
The achievements of the young men underscore the power of collaborative programs like College Express,hands-on learning opportunities like the thyssenkrupp Youth Apprenticeship program, and university partnerships between DACC and upper-level institutions which pave the way for local students to pursue rewarding educational and career paths without financial barriers.
