At Jackson College, education is evolving. We’re reimagining learning through flexible pathways, career-ready credentials, apprenticeships, and innovative options like online programs and business partnerships. Students are finding success through personalized paths that meet today’s needs. Our current campaign highlights students who have taken different paths but all found success at Jackson College. Read on to learn more! Zach McCollum Zach McCollum is employed at Technique High Speed Prototypes. Through a program known as Technique U, he has taken several classes at Jackson College – machining practices, blueprint reading, Solidworks, FANUC robot, and CNC machining. “It’s been a great learning experience. There is a lot of basic knowledge to learn,” he said. He hopes to finish his journeyman license and eventually go to engineering school. Technique U is an educational training program offered by Technique to their employees, working in coordination with Jackson College’s Corporate and Continuing Education office. Crystal Wormuth At 53, Crystal Wormuth proves it’s never too late to chase your dreams. After raising a blended family and running her own antiques business, she returned to Jackson College to earn her degree in business administration. The path wasn’t easy—health issues, personal loss, and the challenge of adapting to new technology tested her resolve—but Wormuth’s determination carried her through. She credits Jackson College’s supportive faculty for helping her succeed. “I probably asked more questions than any other student,” she laughs, “but they never made me feel stupid. Every professor was encouraging and willing to help.” Now a proud graduate, Wormuth encourages others to follow her lead: “If I can do it, anyone can. I’ve doubted myself, I’ve procrastinated, but I’ve done it. The instructors at Jackson College want you to succeed.” Kendall Hunt Caring professors, flexible scheduling, small classes, and strong student support defined Kendall Hunt’s experience at Jackson College. Starting part-time after high school, Hunt found his calling working at the Jackson County Youth Home, which inspired him to go full-time and complete his associate degree in General Studies with a focus on public safety. From there, he seamlessly transferred into Siena Heights University’s Bachelor of Applied Science program offered right on JC’s campus, finishing in just one year before earning his master’s degree. Hunt credits Jackson College’s faculty and support services for helping him succeed. He recalls how Professor Diana Agy’s writing instruction challenged him but ultimately strengthened his skills — something he uses daily in his career. Today, Hunt serves as a probation officer with Jackson County courts while also running his own lawn care business. He encourages others to consider JC as an affordable, supportive launching pad for higher education and career success. Isabella Thielen Isabella Thielen got a head start on her college journey through the Hillsdale County Early Middle College program, taking Jackson College classes as a high school junior and continuing through her 13th year. What began as a way to get ahead soon gave her confidence in navigating college life. “My biggest fear was not having support,” she said. “But the people at the LeTarte Center and my school counselors made the process easy.” With most of her general studies complete, Thielen transitioned to JC’s Central Campus to pursue nursing. This year, she earned her Associate of Applied Science degree. “The nursing program was a challenge — it’s not easy,” she shared. “But starting at the LeTarte Center taught me how to communicate with my professors and get the academic help I needed.”
