Virginia Packaging Applications Center (VAPAC)

VAPAC will deliver a variety of courses and programs in manufacturing technology.  These educational offerings are based on national and regional skill standards and will provide a balance of technical foundation and practical hands-on experiences.  Using advanced instructional technologies, a variety of presentation and delivery modes are offered to accommodate different learning styles and scheduling needs.

In addition to providing structured, regularly scheduled curricula, VAPAC works with individual companies to perform assessments. We design and deliver customized training to meet specialized needs.  These services are available at the workplace, on the college campus or satellite location or in a distance learning format- at a time and place best suited to the needs and interests of the client.

The Center will provide support for industry–based certification programs that are recognized by Virginia firms as credentials for initial employment or career advancement in manufacturing.  In addition, VAPAC maintains student portfolio information to document specific competencies attained by its student clientele.  Manufacturing/Packaging Industry support organizations such as PMMI and IOPP will be invited to conduct industry professional development activities in partnership with VAPAC.

Recognizing that skilled, well-trained employees are key to the success of business and industry organizations, DSLCC is committed to meeting the needs of modern employers who are engaged in advanced manufacturing enterprises and are competing in the global marketplace.  To meet these needs, the College provides a variety of services ranging from job analysis and employee skill assessment to specialized curriculum development and technical consulting- all with the goal of enhancing company productivity.  Further, the College will strive to connect people and businesses to job opportunities and job training across the region as a committed partner in the region’s one-stop center.

In certain instances, the human and capital resources of VAPAC may be contracted to perform business or technical services for companies.  Such services may include quality assurance measurement and testing, component assembly and system setup, simulation and prototype assistance, and basic computer drafting.  

The ultimate purpose of technology education programs is the preparation of students for career entry or career advancement opportunities.  Through the Western Virginia Tech Prep Consortium, VAPAC will work with the emerging workforce through area public schools to inform students about careers in the advanced manufacturing and packaging industry.  DSLCC offers dual enrollment opportunities for students who desire them.  Many local companies have agreed to provide employment interviews, internships, and jobs to all students who complete each level of the Advanced Manufacturing and Packaging Technology program series.  The associate degree level for the Advanced Manufacturing and Packaging program series even provides two semesters of work experience in the packaging field.  Companies are encouraged to make use of the VAPAC website to post job notices and other recruiting information.

As technologies develop and evolve, VAPAC will strive to maintain the currency of its courses and training programs.  An important component of this goal will be the dissemination of new information as it emerges and impacts all aspects of the manufacturing sector.  DSLCC offers regular briefings, informational seminars, and workshops for technical staff and decision makers.

VAPAC has established partnership arrangements with experienced and qualified individuals and organizations to provide business and technical consulting services.  These brokered services will complement the Continuing Education and Workforce Services Division’s other programs and services.

The College has a rich history of providing well-planned seminars and workshops designed to meet targeted interests and needs of regional business and industry organizations.  The availability of local access to skilled consultants and subject matter experts, coupled with the enhanced networking opportunities afforded by these events, make seminars and workshops valuable in meeting the professional development needs of business and industry leaders. VAPAC is committed to continuing and expanding the use of this mode of lifelong learning and professional development. VAPAC welcomes requests and suggestions from its constituency to provide in-house or open-attendance events in a wide range of topics.