ECTC to host technical career event for high school students, parents

Published on Oct 5, 2023

High school students with an interest in advanced technical careers are invited to Gearing Up, a career exploration event at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC). The event is 4-6 p.m. Oct. 18. Parents are encouraged to attend as well. 

Employers will be on hand to discuss high-demand career options with students. Employers include BlueOval SK, LG&E KU, the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Nucor Steel Brandenburg.

“Talking to employers really broadens a student’s understanding of what’s available to them. The careers in robotics, automation and related technologies are endless,” said Marty Sutherland, ECTC professor of Engineering and Electronics Technology. “This is an opportunity to hear directly from those employers and ask questions in a small group setting.”

While interest in engineering has increase greatly, Sutherland said, he hopes to see awareness of more hands-on technician careers increase among high school students. 

“Whether we’re talking about the automotive industry, distillers, utilities, the FBI or working on missile systems, the people in these careers are highly skilled and earning remarkable salaries,” he said. “And best of all, they’re doing it without going into college debt.” 

At the event, students and parents also will get an up-close look at lab spaces of ECTC programs like Engineering and Electronics Technology, Electrical Technology and Industrial Maintenance. Information about scholarships such as the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship also will be available. Students can earn a degree in ECTC’s advanced manufacturing programs tuition-free with the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship.

The event will focus on employers from 4-5 p.m., followed by tours and door prizes. Space is limited and advanced registration is encouraged.