“May the 4th be with you!”

PHOTOS AND VIDEO ARE AVAILABLE AT THE BOTTOM:

LCCTC and its SkillsUSA Chapter sponsored our second annual SkillsUSA Signing Day on May 4, 2023 to recognize seniors who have worked hard and who now have a plan in action for graduation. The event was live-streamed and recorded so that friends, families, and sponsors would be able to celebrate the accomplishments of those who are excited to begin their next solid step toward their future after graduation.

To add even more fun to the event, our school went with a touch of the Star Wars theme that comes with this day complete with a special logo and a creative touch to the snacks which included Wookie Cookies, light saber pretzel sticks, and Storm Trooper cupcakes; to fully understand, please see the photos and video below.

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 highlighted the value of career paths and long-term growth opportunities for almost 30 students from Lawrence County CTC who have committed to skilled trade careers, the military, 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 were introduced by Principal Diana Caiazza, shook the hand of Director Rich, and signed their certificates noting a commitment to their post-secondary plan. They were also presented with a medal by their shop teacher.

“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 were pretty excited about being recognized with these medals on Signing Day and are ready to wear them at graduation!!

LCCTC is excited to join SkillsUSA for this 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.”

We congratulate the honorees & signing day partners:

Lane Madras ~ Allegheny College
Rachel Carbone ~ Army National Guard
Elijah McVay ~ Berner International
Walter McKnight ~ Bruce & Merrilees
Ian Stoneking ~ Butler County Community College
McKenzie Rooney ~ The Culinary Institute of America
Collin Matters ~ The Culinary Institute of America
& Riardo’s Bar & Grill
Caden Wingo ~ Ellwood Engineered Castings
Patricia Kelly ~ Geneva College
Asia Irving ~ Happy Tales Veterinary Hospital
Marissa Austin ~ Laurel Institutes
Cody Mora ~ McElwain Bros. Paint & Collision Center
Jamie Goebel ~ Nutrition Group
Kayla Kelley Pampered Pooch Pet Salon
Angel Keller ~ PennWest California
Cloee Shirley ~ PennWest California
Raeann Sellers ~ Phil Fitts Ford & Lincoln
Isaiah Chapman ~ Pittsburgh Technical College
& Jefferson Poultry Inc.
Isaiah Stunkard ~ Pringle Construction LLC
Ashley Cwynar ~ Robert Morris University
Tommilynn Genareo ~ Slippery Rock University
Caden Hall ~ Slippery Rock University
Katherine Tillia ~ Slippery Rock University
Elia McKnight ~ Slippery Rock University
Keyaria Snider ~ University of Akron
*Austin Paukner ~ University of Mount Union
Destiny Fishel ~ UPMC Jameson Care Center
Isaac Dierfield ~ UPMC Project SEARCH
Brady Zook ~ Wampum Hardware Co.

A heartfelt “Thank you!” goes to:

The industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and members from the Armed Forces who were able to join us for today’s celebration and for their support of our students as they pursue a career beyond their high school years
LCCTCs Administration for their unwavering support – especially Principal Caiazza for announcing!
The head advisors from LCCTCs Chapter of SkillsUSA, Mrs. Weisenstein and Mr. Goebel, for doing what it takes to have such a successful chapter
The LCCTC custodial staff for their assistance in our setup today and for all they do to make this building shine!
Mr. Windhorst for always being willing to supply technical support
Ms. Price and the RT Crew for the delicious treats including Star Wars themed “Wookie Cookies”, Princess Leia and Stormtrooper cupcakes, and pretzel light sabers” — delicious and creative!
Mr. Miller and MTT Crew for creating the medals
The teachers who helped our students reach today’s milestone
The families and friends who supported our students in their pursuit of a career and technical education
Clark’s Studio for the formal pictures
Mrs. Pasterik for the table coverings – snazzy!
Student leaders from the SkillsUSA National competitor underclassmen for greeting, and ushering