Lee County Schools (LCS) is opening doors for students to explore career opportunities and uncover their passions in a supportive, advisor-guided environment. Through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, students gain hands-on experience, earn valuable certifications, and position themselves for success in their post-high school endeavors—whether that means entering the workforce, attending a technical program, or pursuing a four-year degree.
The CTE program equips students with practical skills that provide a competitive edge in the job market while also saving families money. Certifications earned through the program can translate directly into employment opportunities. Additionally, internships and real-world experiences prepare students for any career path by exposing them to professional settings and cultivating essential workplace skills.
For students planning to attend college, CTE offers more than career preparation—it helps them hone their interests and gain a clear sense of direction for their studies. Whether their goals involve engineering, healthcare, or entrepreneurship, the skills acquired through this program serve as a strong foundation for future success.
On Wednesday, October 30, the Dennis Wicker Civic Center buzzed with the energy of high school students participating in mock interviews with local business professionals. Armed with resumes, confidence, and preparation from their academy teachers, family, and peers, students faced the daunting challenge of practicing real-world interview scenarios.
The day kicked off with a networking lunch, where students engaged with community leaders. Conversation prompts at each table encouraged students to ask insightful questions, such as, “What do you believe is the most valuable skill in a job?” and “How do you approach the question, ‘What is your biggest weakness?’ in an interview?”
As a participating interviewer, I was inspired by the students’ eagerness to learn and grow. I encouraged them to draw from their experiences in clubs, sports, and other social activities to illustrate their ability to work in teams, navigate personalities, and overcome challenges. These life skills, often developed organically, are transferable to any workplace environment. Recognizing the depth of their experience builds confidence and reinforces the idea that they already have a robust toolbox of skills to bring to the table.
Events like this mock interview session exemplify the profound impact of the CTE program. Students not only gain valuable feedback but also learn to articulate their strengths and recognize their potential. By bridging the gap between education and industry, Lee County Schools is empowering students to take charge of their futures.
As parents, grandparents, siblings, or inspiring adults to our community’s youth, we should strongly encourage and pursue pathways to involve all young people in career readiness programs. Information about these programs is available at https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/o/lcs/page/career-technical-rev and shared during middle school open houses. Begin discussing CTE programs with the children in your life early. While paths may change as we grow, having a plan and support along the way can unlock each student’s full potential, enabling them to thrive in a future filled with opportunity.