GALVA, Illinois - Black Hawk College introduced its new center that's aimed at veterinary medicine.
Retired veterinarian Harley Schnowske says times have changed in the field, "We`re sitting in the hog capital of the world one time, but that has since passed."
While he's not in the business anymore, a whole new generation is set to enter the field. Black Hawk College's new veterinarian sciences center offers students a chance to get into veterinary medicine as either an assistant or technician.
For student, Victoria Dewaele, it was an easy decision to choose Black Hawk.
"We sketched out between all the technician programs. This is the closest one within at least two hours."
There's a traditional lecture hall, but the other half of the building is an actual animal hospital.
"There`s so much open space for us to practice," said Dewaele.
However, the best new is job opportunities are expected to double in the upcoming years. Good news for students like Victoria.
Classes started this fall for veterinary assisting while fall 2017 classes will be offer for veterinary technology.