Across our region, skilled trades are more important than ever—and so is helping students find their way into these promising career paths. GVEC is proud to support local workforce development through partnerships with schools and booster clubs, and through hands-on learning opportunities that make career exploration accessible and exciting.
The Power of CTE Programs
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs found in most high schools play a central role in equipping students with a blend of academic knowledge, technical skills, and real-world training. CTE helps students build practical experience, earn certifications or college credit, and develop the competencies needed for future success in skilled trades and high-demand careers after high school.
In the past year, both Marion ISD and the Marion Education Foundation received Power Up grants for their growing CTE programs—one to fund much-needed welding equipment and the other to create more classroom space to accommodate increased student interest. These investments directly empower students with the tools, space, and confidence to discover what they are capable of and set them on the right path for a highly valued career.
Boosting Construction Trades at Seguin High School
Other programs like the Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club launched at Seguin High School also play a vital role in encouraging students to explore hands-on, high-demand careers. GVEC was honored to be a founding member of the club in 2023. Students gain real-world experience through construction projects like cabinetry, outdoor structures, and even tiny home builds, which help them discover their strengths and interests. The club also provides toolkits for students in the construction trades program—tools they use throughout high school and take with them after graduation. Having their own equipment from day one is a tremendous help as it eases the financial burden that many young tradespeople face as they start their careers.
“High school students are realizing the opportunity for great career paths in industry trades. However, to start those careers, they must have the necessary tools,” says Jenn Weddle, community outreach coordinator for Masters Electrical Services. A major highlight of the program is the Industry Signing Day, which the Seguin EDC puts on, celebrating students who are graduating with full-time employment in industry trades or are enrolled in continued-education trade programs. “This event is an example of how we are already seeing our initiative of providing tools to the construction students pay off, because they are equipped to start those career paths.”
The Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club has plans to expand the program to other area high schools as well. To learn more about this exciting program, visit the Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club Facebook page.
Real-World Learning Through GVEC
GVEC also offers classroom-style presentations, safety demonstrations, and job-shadow days that bring careers to life.
Job-shadow days are especially meaningful, offering students the chance to learn more about the day-to-day aspects of a job directly from GVEC employees, from line workers, fiber technicians, electricians, and HVAC experts to engineers and cybersecurity professionals.
“These shadow days give students a firsthand look at what a career in our industry can offer,” says Jeff Kerlick, GVEC community relations representative. “They see the teamwork, the technology, and the purpose behind serving their community. It opens doors and helps them imagine where their own path could lead.”
Beyond these events, GVEC also supports students pursuing trades after high school through its annual scholarship program. These scholarships help students attending trade schools and technical colleges continue their education and invest in their career goals.
A Stronger Workforce, A Stronger Community
As more students explore trade careers, local businesses benefit from a stronger workforce, and communities gain young adults equipped with valuable skills and long-term career potential.
Together, we are helping build a brighter, more resilient future—one student, one skill, and one opportunity at a time.
