I would like to think most people would agree the purpose of education is to prepare our young people to become well-adjusted, knowledgeable and productive members of the community. Accomplishing these goals requires that our school system implements certain specific initiatives.

One important program implemented to prepare students to contribute to our economy is the Career Center which has been in operation for about 30 years. It has served some 400 students per semester with each attending for half days during the semester. When established, it had a fundamental goal of educating students who intend to finish high school and enter the work force. It allows 11th and 12th graders to select specific courses to help them prepare them for very specific careers. Most of the courses can also count towards community college credit.

The Career Center is a small specialty high school that operates out of the old Hilly Branch school on U.S. 301 with a full-time principal, 14 teachers and support personnel. Students register at their home high schools where they attend every day. They are bussed to the Career Center for the morning or afternoon programs where they receive hands-on experience along with the necessary academic studies.

The largest program taught at the center builds carpentry, electricity, plumbing and masonry trades. The students receive basic introductory knowledge and information which could prepare them for higher education or being licensed in a trade.

Judging by the number of students registered, the automotive technology programs appear to be second only to the building trades programs. Two of those programs — auto mechanics and motorsport mechanics — have been popular with students for many years.

With technology advancing in the workplace, it’s not surprising that interest in computer engineering has grown the way at the center. Students study the hardware and software technology of computers. Cisco Network certification is a part of the program. When you consider how much computer technology has become a part of all business, this program contributes a great deal to preparing students to enter the workplace as important technology employees.

Changes in the world of work virtually mandate that we constantly look for new programs to fit the needs of that world and attract students interested in being a part of those changes. Because students realize they are studying a subject that could translate into a career, they meet with a great deal of success in their academics. That, in turn, helps the students join the skilled workforce available to our community.