LCCTC to host National SkillsUSA Signing Day
by Austin Paukner, junior Health Assistant
LCCTC and its SkillsUSA Chapter are sponsoring the first SkillsUSA Signing Day on May 4, 2022, a day of recognition for seniors who have worked hard and who now have a plan in action for graduation. The event will be live-streamed and will be recorded so that friends, families and sponsors will be able to celebrate the accomplishments of those who are excited to begin their next solid step toward their future after graduation.
Much like a traditional signing day ceremony hosted for student-athletes who commit to a college, this event is part of a nationwide celebration showcasing the impact that SkillsUSA, career and technical education programs, and industry partnerships have to help close the skills gap. The event will highlight the value of career paths and long-term growth opportunities for over 40 students from Lawrence County CTC who have committed to skilled trades careers and/or advanced training at this time. As graduation quickly approaches in June, more are sure to join the ranks of the gainfully employed.
During this event, seniors will sign a certificate noting their commitment to their post-secondary plan. They will also be presented with a medal.
“It takes an entire day to finish programming the logos,” claims Mr. Miller, MTT instructor, “but about 20 minutes to finish one side,” Mr. Miller. Made of 6061T6 Aluminum and designed and crafted by Machine Tool Technology’s advanced class, the medal will feature the school logo on the front with the individual’s shop logo on the back.
The kids are pretty excited about being recognized with these medals on Signing Day!
“I'm happy to know I have a place to work after high school and possibly get another trade underneath my belt,” states Dominic Smith (EO) who has been working at Central Heating and Plumbing with the Co-op program. “Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to work with my hands, so being a jack of many trades would help me a lot in potential future careers – but for now, I’m happy to be at Central.”
Shawn Barr (Weld) is also excited about his future. “It’s great to know that I got a jump start to the workforce before I have graduated. I know that I have a place to continue on after graduation, but my learning won’t stop there. I’m continuing to build my skills to further my career. I am more than happy with ADG Fab because it’s a wonderful place to work.”
Cadan Stuble has been living out his childhood dream at McGonigle Ambulance Service. Right now, he is working to make sure that their vehicles are in tip-top shape. “It makes me proud to know that I’ve accomplished so much and that I have my feet on the ground with an awesome job!” Stubble, also a member of both the Pulaski and Shenango Volunteer Fire Companies, has recently earned his EMT certification through Penn State.
These Vet Assistant students also feel a sense of accomplishment: Diana Troutman will begin her studies in the fall at the Vet Tech Institute of Pittsburgh. “I feel accomplished in both my academic and vet assistant skills. Being eligible for recognition like this is proof to me that hard work and good work do pay off.”
“I feel honored and excited to receive this medal,” Lyz Manana, also a third-year Vet Assistant student, “for the hard work I put in.” Lyz will begin her studies at Kent State.
Katie Bober will double-major in Molecular Biology and Veterinary Technology at CalU in the fall, but before that, she will compete in the SkillsUSA National Championships this summer. “SkillsUSA has truly taught me that hard work pays off! I feel a great sense of honor to receive this medal,” agrees Katie, “and I love that we’ll have a hand-made keepsake for graduation.”
For Amber Miller, heading to YSU in the fall to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering, there is a special reason for being excited to wear this medal. “Knowing that my dad actually made this medal for me and for the other LCCTC seniors for graduation will make it even more special.”
LCCTC is excited to join in on the SkillsUSA National Signing Day.
“SkillsUSA’s National Signing Day salutes students who express their commitment to a fulfilling and rewarding career in the skilled trades,” says SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. “SkillsUSA National Signing Day is generating greater awareness that the skilled trades offer rewarding career paths. SkillsUSA is committed to strengthening the skilled workforce by empowering the next generation of workers to enter the trades. Our organization can help close the skills gap while presenting robust career opportunities for future employees who enjoy challenging work that offers stability and long-term benefits.”
