Trades & CTC: The Opportunities and Challenges




    Yesterday at the Home Show Expo, I had the opportunity to meet with Keith Dodson from the Blue Collar Project, Samantha Lawson form Frederick County Women in the Trades, and Tracey Hicks from CTC. It was enlightening to learn about the various initiatives aimed at providing opportunities for students interested in the trades.

    The Blue Collar Project offers scholarships for trade school, which is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing these fields. However, there is still a financial gap for many students, as the cost of enrollment can be prohibitive even with the help off this scholarship. Similarly, the Career and Technology Center (CTC) faces challenges due to its current infrastructure limitations. While the current infrastructure works well for technical classes like CAD, it lacks the classroom flexibility needed for programs such as automotive or welding which require more expansive spaces.

    There was discussion of there possibly being another CTC built in the southern part of the county, which would benefit students in that area. However, this raises concerns for students in the northern part of the county who may struggle to access these programs offered due to transportation constraints.

    The need for more seats for students is evident, as there are currently twice as many applicants than available openings at CTC. Additionally, there is a recognized need for a flex space in high schools for trade programs. Having flex space in the high school would help two problems all three pointed out: 

1. Students and Parents are not aware that the CTC is a high school program. Often when they do realize this, it is too late to apply. While it is discussed at an Open House, this information is often forgotten or overlooked among the vast amount of new information incoming freshman and their families are given.

2. Many students and parents do not realize that CTC is a high school program. Its close proximity to FCC means many people confuse it as part of the program offerings from FCC.

3. Transportation is lacking to available programs offered through FCPS. This means we are not serving the needs of students who would greatly benefit from access to these programs.

    Other counties have successfully implemented trade programs like cosmetology or dental hygiene inside their schools, providing valuable services to underserved communities. Students are exposed to the option, they learn early on what is necessary to apply and be admitted, and they have opportunities to practice their craft for members of their community.

    It is crucial to ensure that students who may not be inclined towards traditional four-year college paths have access to vocational and CTC classes. These programs can be instrumental in providing them with the skills needed to enter the workforce and secure well-paying jobs.

    Keep an eye out for my update at the end of the month when Samantha Lawson and myself go to Walkersville High School to participate in their Career Day interview project. Samantha will get an opportunity to talk with students and give them an idea of what is expected from an employer of potential new hires to a trade. A great way to connect with the school, the students, and get the word out about available scholarships through Women in the Trades.

Check out the amazing work of the folks I had the privilege of meeting this weekend!

Samantha Lawson: Women in Trades https://www.facebook.com/groups/698083835023871

Keith Dodson: Blue Collar Project https://bluecollarproject.org/

And learn about these opportunities for our students and communities through CTC:

Career & Technology Center https://edu.fcps.org/ctc/home

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