Congressman Thornberry speaks at CC

Clarendon College’s Wind Energy Program took center stage during a meeting with industry representatives and Congressman Mac Thornberry last week in Pampa.

CC President Robert Riza welcomed those in attendance and discussed how the college is working to meet the needs of the industry.

“We are proud of our program that is aimed at our students’ success and our communities’ success,” Dr. Riza said.

The congressman touted wind energy as a matter of independence for the nation and noted that the Texas Panhandle is well suited for the business.

“The more energy we can produce on our own, the better off we are,” said Thornberry.

CC wind energy instructor Lance Porter said the college offers a two-year associate’s degree in Wind Energy but said that students can get certifications as wind technicians after one year in the program.

“The purpose is to develop jobs and put people to work in an industry that is growing,” Porter said. “This program focuses on wind energy, but it really puts them in a position to do whatever they want to in life.”

Also speaking at the event was Sherry Kunka of Sharyland Utilities, the company that played the largest role in building transmission lines that have tied Panhandle wind production to the electric grid that feeds the more populated areas of the state. Kunka said the CC program opens the door for students not only to work on wind turbines but also to work as electricians and linemen.

Crystal Fouquet of Cielo Wind Power serves with Kunka on the advisory committee for CC’s wind program. Cielo built the Panhandle’s first wind farm near White Deer and has made significant donations of equipment and money to Clarendon’s program. Currently, the company is developing a wind farm in northern Donley and southern Gray counties.

“We look forward to a long-lasting relationship with Clarendon College and all the technicians who will come from here.”

Following the meeting, Porter gave media representatives a tour of CC’s facilities at the Pampa Center, which includes several simulators and pieces of equipment to give students the best experience.

“We put their hands on it, and that’s the best way to learn,” Porter said.

For more information about Clarendon College’s wind energy program, call 1-800-687-9737 or visit them online at www.clarendoncollege.edu.