Local TSTC Graduate Returns to Pursue Second Degree in Growing Field of Occupational Safety

Calvin Tiner, a 2020 graduate of Texas State Technical College (TSTC), is back at the institution for a second Associate of Applied Science degree in Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance (OSEC). After his first graduation, Tiner worked as an industrial technician at USG and later joined a safety team. This experience sparked his interest in safety, leading him to Cargill Animal Nutrition as a maintenance electrician.

At Cargill, Tiner took the lead in implementing safety standards, even though the company didn't have a safety team. His tasks included mapping fire extinguisher locations. A conversation with Demetri Jones, a former Cargill colleague and current TSTC Industrial Systems teacher, led Tiner to consider the OSEC program.

Jones commended Tiner's safety knowledge, stating it was valuable to Cargill. Tiner started the OSEC program in August 2024 and has been actively participating in classes. He often assists Teresa Purcell, the OSEC instructor in Abilene, and his real-world experiences have been useful in class discussions.

Tiner also attends evening classes, sharing his experiences and insights. He believes that TSTC's OSEC program is the best route to becoming a better occupational health and safety technician, and praises the quality of the training facilities and equipment.

The OSEC program at TSTC, available at the Abilene, Fort Bend County, and Waco campuses, is expected to see a rise in demand. According to onetonline.org, the demand for occupational health and safety technicians in Texas is projected to increase by 22% from 2020 to 2030. The median salary for these technicians in Texas is $52,460.

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