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CTE: Pathway to a Brighter Future
Contributing Author—Dr. Bo Huffman, CTE Director
Career and Technical Education, formerly known as Vocational-Technical Education, has helped many students become well-rounded and productive members of society. In the world in which we live, nearly everything you see, buy, or eat has been directly impacted by an individual who has developed the necessary skill set needed to manufacture or produce such items. Over the last decade, with the help of business and industry leaders, career and technical education has been pushed to the forefront of our minds. Many people are beginning to understand why it is necessary for our students to learn more about the different skills needed to meet the demands of a global, 21st century workforce.
The Simpson County Technical Center is an institution that prides itself on preparing young people for life after high school. Whether a student chooses to go to college, enter the workforce, or both, the skills learned in the technical programs offered through the Simpson County School District can benefit our students for a lifetime. In the 21st Century it is essential that our students be equipped in both academic and technical skills in order to compete with students across our nation and the world. As the director of career and technical education, it has been one of my goals to increase opportunities for the students of Simpson County by offering a variety of quality technical programs that provide basic knowledge and unique skills which will ultimately prepare our students for the demands of the current workforce. Students who complete a technical skills program of study in the Simpson County School District not only learn a skill that they can carry with them for a lifetime but they can also further their education at any post-secondary institution. While students learn unique skills offered through the various CTE programs and courses they also gain knowledge related to the college and career readiness standards set forth by the Mississippi Department of Education.
This is just another reminder that the students who choose to take technical skills programs and courses at The Simpson County Technical Center or at either high school are still able to further their education and attend the college or university of their choice.
Last school year we determined that it was in the best interest of our students to convert the Automotive Service Technology program to Diesel Service Technology due to the current workforce needs and the fact that there are at least four tractor dealerships and two diesel injector companies in Simpson County. This year we are offering both Diesel Service Technology I and Diesel Service Technology II for our students. This is a two year program in which students are able to earn two credits/year toward graduation as well as national ASE certifications. We also have a new instructor for this program for the 2019-2020 school year. Mr. Allen Sanders is serving as the new instructor. He obtained his credentials from Hinds Community College and brings with him eleven plus years of experience as a Diesel Service Technican. We are proud to have Mr. Sanders with us as we continue to strive to give our best so that our students are able to achieve their best.
In closing, I want to encourage our business/industry leaders and parents to continue to support the great opportunities offered to the students of Simpson County through Career and Technical education. The skills learned through CTE provide our students with the ability to do something and go somewhere after high school. Until next time, remember the vision for The Simpson County Technical Center, “Career and Technical Education is a Pathway to a Brighter Future.”
