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It was another strong year for the Professional Writing and Technical Communication (PWTC) program. Jessica Ouellette continued duties as our graduate teaching assistant, and again her teaching received accolades from all around.  Meanwhile, Professor Janine Solberg worked to ensure that the program kept pace with developments in information design, acquiring licenses for MadCap Flare and the entire Adobe Technical Communication Suite.  Thanks to Janine, the PWTC Computer Lab boasts machines furnished with the only such software in use on our campus. 

As per usual, several grads returned to address students in our capstone course, providing students with a view into their own futures, an up-to-the-minute sense of workplace culture, and no small amount of inspiration.  Many students tell me that the returning grads are one of the best features of our program, and I can only agree.  Also as per tradition, the good Professor Nelson made a guest appearance, speaking this year on the “writing life beyond the job.”  Once again John hosted the annual reunion at his beautiful home, and all enjoyed stories and laughs on a gorgeous Amherst-in-May afternoon.  I am grateful to John for his continued presence in the program.

An unusually large number of students enjoyed paid internships over the summer, some near (Northampton), and some far (Sydney, Australia).  I’ve had more calls from staffing agencies this year than any year I can remember, which suggests that the program’s good reputation, already widespread, is growing.  It was also another banner year for placements, with some grads landing at firms where we have had an established presence and others at organizations entirely new to us.  As of late September, all but a few newly-minted droogs are employed full-time. We are confident that those remaining will find safe harbor soon.  

Congratulations to all!         

Professor Dave Toomey

2015 PWTC Graduate Placements: