Trumbull County high school principals embarked on a road trip last Wednesday for their monthly meeting, heading to the TCESC Pre-Apprenticeship Carpentry Workshop to gain a firsthand look at the program, now in its second year.
During the visit, principals were presented with a before-and-after showcase, highlighting the transformation of the workshop space. This afforded them an opportunity to grasp the scope of work undertaken by the attending students daily.
The Niles City School District currently boasts the highest enrollment in the program, with 15 students. According to Niles High School Principal Stephen Rovnak, this initiative has proven to be a game-changer for their district. Rovnak emphasized, “It's reaching students who may not have considered college and were uncertain about their future career paths. The program provides them with a tangible skill set, fostering enthusiasm for their work. They build meaningful relationships, and for some of these students, it's a life-changing experience, as they now have a clear vision for their future.”
Outside of carpentry skills, the program provides certifications in forklifts and a pre-apprenticeship certificate.