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(Waco) The latest study from Texas State Technical College System and Technology Futures Inc. explores the workforce and curriculum impacts of Homeland Security for Texas community and technical colleges. The events of September 11, 2001 brought immediate attention to the challenges of internal security in the United States. The realization of these challenges resulted in a number of actions by federal, state, and local governments, including the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

This report presents information, ideas, and concepts designed to assist Texas community and technical college leaders in making reasoned decisions about the design, initiation, and conduct of HS programs at their institutions. The report includes analyses of seven technology areas that provide the technical underpinnings for the nation’s homeland security agenda.

These areas include:

• Identification specialists
• Network security specialists
• Weapons of mass destruction (WMD) detection specialists
• WMD mitigation and decontamination specialists
• Concealed explosives specialists
• Critical infrastructure security specialists
• Pattern analysis specialists

This research was conducted by the Technology Futures Inc. and Texas State Technical College System from late 2003 to early 2004. For additional information about this and future PET forecast, please visit www.forecasting.tstc.edu.

About PET
TSTC’s Programs for Emerging Technologies (PET) identifies, evaluates and forecasts potential emerging technology programs which are likely to have a positive impact on the State's economy. This research is intended to increase awareness of specific emerging technical programs and proactively advance the development of applicable high-technology curriculum in Texas community and technical colleges. By doing so, PET hopes to enhance the economic competitiveness of Texas and ensure a competitively skilled workforce for future Texas employers. See www.forecasting.tstc.edufor more information.

About Texas State Technical College
Texas State Technical College (TSTC) is a public coeducational institution of higher education offering courses of study in technical education leading to the award of Certificates and Associate of Applied Science degrees. TSTC also provides technical education and training to business and industry, continuing education to the public, and training programs for community and state economic development. TSTC colleges are located in Harlingen, Marshall, West Texas and Waco with extension centers in Abilene, Brownwood and Breckenridge. TSTC serves students from more than 200 counties in Texas and TSTC graduates begin their careers in high-paying jobs across the state or continue their education at colleges and universities. TSTC graduates are highly valued by business and industry for their work ethic, knowledge, and workplace skills. Texas State Technical Colleges are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097: Telephone number 404-679-4501) to award Associate of Applied Science degrees and Certificates of Completion. For more information, visit TSTC on the web at www.tstc.eduor call (800) 792-8784.

About Technology Futures, Inc.
For 25 years, Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI) has assisted its customers in developing practical business and operational solutions to problems in technology management, marketing, finance, business development, and strategic planning. Clients have ranged from three person start-ups to over half of the top 50 Fortune companies, leading government agencies, and top-tier universities. We assist our clients to construct solid and imaginative bridges to the future. Drawing on a wide range of practical, proven technology forecasting and management methods, we carefully tailor our services to meet the special needs and desires of each customer. The continuing loyalty of TFI's many customers attests to the quality and utility of our consulting and research services. For more information, visit TFI on the web at www.tfi.com or call (800) 835-3887.