Industrial Engineering Technology / Basketball Camps
In this episode of the Bank First Ranger Hour, host Gary Darby is joined by Alex Hogue, Advanced Manufacturing Specialist at Northwest Mississippi Community College. Hogue provides an in-depth look at Northwest’s Industrial Engineering Technology programs, which are offered at both the main campus in Senatobia and The Concourse in Batesville. He discusses how the college’s investment in cutting-edge equipment prepares students for high-demand careers in manufacturing, automation, robotics, PLCs, hydraulics, and data-driven industrial systems. Hogue outlines the structure of the two-year Associate of Applied Science degree, career certificate, and technical certificate options, emphasizing hands-on learning in courses like robotics, vision systems, motor control, and Industry 4.0. He also explains the growing industry need for skilled technicians and the expanding job market in Mississippi and beyond.
In the second half of the episode, Coach John Redman, new Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Northwest, shares insights from his first few months on the job. Redman discusses the recruitment of 13 new players for the upcoming season, including a mix of Mississippi standouts and out-of-state talent. He emphasizes building strong relationships, team culture, and academic success. Coach Redman also previews two upcoming basketball camps: the Little Rangers Youth Camp for 2nd–8th graders (July 22–24) and the Elite College Prospect Camp for 9th–12th graders (July 26), both designed to develop skills and build player-coach connections.
The episode concludes with recognition of legendary Ranger football coach Bobby Franklin, who was honored with the inaugural NJCAA Coaches Legacy Award, and a shoutout to 168 Northwest student-athletes named to the MACCC Academic Honor Roll for their performance in the classroom.
Keywords: Northwest Mississippi Community College, Alex Hogue, Industrial Engineering Technology, advanced manufacturing, robotics education, automation training, Industry 4.0, workforce development, The Concourse Batesville, hands-on technical programs, John Redman, NWCC basketball, basketball recruiting, youth basketball camps, elite prospect camp, Ranger basketball, NJCAA Coaches Legacy Award, Bobby Franklin, MACCC academic honor roll, northwestms.edu.
