Technical communications lab updated at Montana Tech

By Nick Gevock of The Montana Standard - 10/10/2008

Montana Tech's new technical communications computer lab has 16 new Apple computers loaded with all the newest multi-media editing and authoring software available. The new lab gives students the opportunity to use the same software that their industry uses. Photos by Walter hinick / The Montana Standard

Jackie Dumke's experience in the lab where she produced video and edited materials throughout her college career at Montana Tech wasn't always a great one.

The senior from Dillon majoring in technical communications said the lab was hardly cutting edge.

"You never knew what equipment would work and what wouldn't," Dumke said this week.

Not so anymore.

Tech is wrapping up an overhaul of its technical communications lab in the Engineering Hall. And the renovation includes a lot more than just fresh paint and new desks.

The lab is now decked out with some of the latest, high-end computers, software and other technical equipment that will help students when they get out of school and into the job market, said Henrietta Shirk, a professor in technical communications.

The school bought new Apple computers and video editing software. It also brought in some personal computers because many companies and government agencies use both Macintosh and PC applications, she said.

The department will soon have other new equipment as well, including hand-held digital video recorders that have the capability of producing films of up to an hour, said Simon Hemingway, an adjunct professor.

"Having this lab allows us to use fairly inexpensive, quality cameras that are good for documentary work," he said.

The equipment is crucial to helping students succeed, Shirk said. Technical communications students learn how to communicate in writing, visually through productions and other forms of presentation. They go on to a variety of careers as Web designers, editors, videographers, photographers and graphic illustrators for private companies and government agencies.

Anthony Willard, a senior from Butte, said the upgrades will make a big difference.

"It's nice to be actually using the stuff that will be in the fields we're going into," he said.

For example, Willard and his classmates have to produce a six minute video as an assignment. He said the "Final Cut Pro" software they're using is common in the private and public sector for video production.

The lab overhaul, however, involved more than just new equipment. Before the renovation, which started last year, the lab was one long room that Shirk said wasn't well suited to teaching. The layout included long tables stretching across the room.

"It was terrible to lecture in, like a wind tunnel," she said. "It had a barracks appearance." Emma MacKenzie, a first-year master's degree student, never worked in the old lab. But she's appreciative of the upgrades.

"It shows the college's commitment not only to the students, but to the profession of technical communications," she said.

Montana Tech will be hosting a reception in the new lab at 11 a.m. today as part of homecoming.

Reporter Nick Gevock may be reached at nick.gevock@mtstandard.com