WARREN, Ohio — After graduating Shelby Fowler hopes to get some on-the-job experience, and eventually go back to school to become a certified weld inspector.
“I knew that college wasn’t my thing and skilled trades looked interesting to me,” said Fowler, a senior in the welding program at Trumbull Career and Technical Center.
Fowler, who is president of the local Skills USA Chapter, says the TCTC path has been invaluable for her.
“I’m really fortunate to have this program available to me because if I would want to go to technical school after high school it would cost me a lot of money,” said Fowler.
TCTC opened its doors in 1978 and currently offers 26 career tech programs. Now, more assistance may be on the way.
If the state budget is passed, $100 million would be allocated to the Career Tech Equipment grant program and $200 million to the Career Tech Construction grant program.
“We’re excited to add on and expand opportunities for all the students,” said TCTC Superintendent Jason Gray.
Gray and Director Paula Bako envision a bright future for the program, which currently serves more than 1,000 high school-age students in the Mahoning Valley.
“We have a large waiting list for students wanting welding, HVAC, electrical, and this would help us to fill that need. It would be able a 12,000 square foot building that will house our new program,” said Gray.
If the state budget funds are made available, they hope to start an industrial technology program.
“We tell students all the time, the skills they gain from a career tech program and you know the hands-on learning, can be applicable in so many different fields,” said Bako.
For Fowler, she’s excited to be among the growing number of women choosing a career in skilled trades but she recognizes the challenges she may face in the industry.
“Boys are going to pick on you. They’re going to make fun of you because you’re a girl, but you’ve just got to tell them who’s boss. Our school as a whole is just a great environment and a great place to be. They celebrate the little achievements, not just the big ones,” said Fowler.
