Student Experience: Terrel Taplin Blair

“I enrolled in the BOSS program because I have always had a passion for technology and wanted to expand my knowledge in this area. My experience was instrumental in my growth personally as well as professionally by providing me the skills and confidence I needed to thrive in my current career choices.

“The Office Technology program has allowed me to develop my communication, interpersonal, organizational and management skills. In my challenging and rewarding jobs as senior analyst and also as adjunct faculty, I am continuously applying the knowledge that I acquired in the classroom as well as in my current profession. 

“My family members were my No. 1 supporters by always encouraging me to continue my educational goals. My mentors, Doris Wilson and Bette Plog, and my high school typing teacher, Ms. Blackburn, were all inspirational in helping me develop strong leadership skills and a powerful work ethic. The program has given me a competitive edge by obtaining the tools necessary to succeed in today’s workforce.”

Terrel Taplin Blair earned two associate degrees in Office Technology, Office Information System Specialist and Administrative Assistant. Her job responsibilities as a senior analyst with the DISD including ensuring that each school is in compliance with the Texas Education Agency, school board policies and legal requirements for reporting student discipline data. Her duties include managing, analyzing, reporting and monitoring student discipline data for DISD schools.


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Adam West

Adam West

Executive Chef, The Porch Restaurant
“El Centro helped me sharpen my skills as part of the Hot Food Competition Team — landing me ACF culinary medals in Orlando, Chicago, Dallas and Houston. I now helm The Porch — all thanks to the start I received at El Centro.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Ngoc Trinh

Ngoc Trinh

Research Product Development Chef PepsiCo Global Foods and Frito Lay North America
“The culinary program had a blend of professors, ranging from those with decades of experience in the industry to military backgrounds to science backgrounds. They had such a wealth of knowledge, which really translated for me into this deep knowledge for foods and flavors and science. If I had not pursued this education, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts

Pat Sykes

Director H&R Block Premium
“The on-the-job applications drew the positive attention of my boss and enhanced my performance in the workplace. The Management Program helped develop the skill sets necessary to lead and coach others.”
Business and Management
Tamera Nalls

Tamera Nalls

Real Estate Professional Keller Williams Urban Dallas/Keller Williams Luxury International
“The Dallas College Real Estate program prepared me for real-life work because the faculty are all industry professionals. They did not just talk; they all walked the walk.”
Real Estate
Terrel Taplin Blair
Terrel Taplin Blair
Senior Analyst Dallas Independent School District

Computer Basics (MS Office, etc)
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated September 22, 2026