Trinity Valley Community College is proud to recognize Court Reporting & Captioning Week on Feb. 1 through 8, marking its 13^th year of observance. This nationwide event, sponsored by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), celebrates the contributions of court reporters, captions, legal videographers, and others in the legal community under the theme: The Real AI: Accuracy & Integrity.

“Court reporters are guardians of the record, ensuring accurate legal transcripts,” TVCC President Dr. Jason Morrison shared. “The need for skilled professionals is growing, and TVCC is proud to supply that demand. The opportunities in this field are endless.”

Launched in Fall 2024, the online for-credit court reporting program offers multiple pathways for individuals looking to start their career in court reporting.

The pathways offered by TVCC include:

• Occupational Skills Award (21 credit hours): Equips students to assist court reporters with transcripts and daily copies.
• Court Reporting Certificate (42 credit hours): Prepares students for the Texas State licensing exam to become certified shorthand reporters.
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree (60 credit hours): Provides full training to pass the state licensing exam and work as freelance or official court reporters, real-time captions, or broadcast captions.

Annabel Sauceda, a former student of TVCC’s non-credit program, became a licensed court reporter in Texas after completing the course in 2020. She described the experience as both challenging and rewarding, but the flexibility of TVCC’s online format allowed her to complete coursework while maintaining a full-time job. Sauceda encourages anyone considering court reporting to take the leap.

 “The program was intensive, requiring dedication and practice, but it prepared me for a vital role in the legal system,” Saucedo said. “If you’re even slightly interested, go for it. The profession is amazing, salaries are high, and reporters are in demand. You’re not just limited to the courtroom—there are so many diverse opportunities.”

 If you are interested in enrolling in TVCC’s Online Court Reporting Credit Pathway, but want more information on the coursework beforehand, the National Court Reporters Association offers a free introductory program. The four-week program, A to Z Intro to Steno Machine Shorthand program, will offer interested individuals the opportunity to discover if a career as a court reporting is right for you. For more information, contact Judy Evans at judylrevans@gmail.com.