Jason Rubenbauer, interim dean for health sciences and professional studies at Bainbridge State College, outlined some of his goals during a Wednesday address to the Bainbridge Lions Club.

“Today’s economy requires students to have increased technical skills in order to achieve the demands of a highly competitive business environment,” Rubenbauer said in opening his comments. “Our Bainbridge State College division strives for excellence in meeting the needs of our regional industries.”

Rubenbauer said he would strive to provide a highly qualified and diverse work force that will enable southwest Georgia, north Florida and southeast Alabama to become strong competitors in the recruitment of future industries while exceeding the expectations of our existing business partners.

Rubenbauer told the Lions that his department’s welding program could lead students into well-paying jobs.

“A good welder can often make as much as college graduates in some other fields,” he said. “Courses are offered in several convenient formats to help students achieve their educational goals. There is the traditional in-class format, which is a combination of traditional and web based training and web based courses. Traditional and hybrid courses are offered Monday through Thursday in the morning.”

Rubenbauer said the college also offers an associates degree in nursing and courses in allied health programs.

“With Decatur County being such a strong agricultural county, we also are looking toward possibly adding future offerings that will help the agricultural community.” Rubenbauer closed by saying, “Our health science and professional studies teachers are dedicated to preparing students who can be competitive in many areas.”