DuBOIS — Students from Jeff Tech took center stage at last week’s DuBois Area School District board meeting, showcasing technical skills, certifications and career plans during a presentation highlighting Career and Technical Education Month.
District administrators and board members welcomed the large turnout of students, instructors and families, noting it was one of the strongest student presentations the board has hosted. Isabel Rosiek, dean of students at Jeff Tech, introduced participants and praised their growth, telling board members many of the seniors presenting had been her students years earlier.
Students from multiple programs described hands-on training, industry certifications and real-world experience gained through their coursework.
A senior in the collision repair program told board members he recently earned his Pennsylvania state inspection license at no cost and is gaining experience through a co-op placement at a local body shop. He said he hopes to continue in the trade after graduation and eventually start his own business.
Diesel technology students spoke about learning responsibility through long-term shop projects and working toward credentials such as commercial driver’s licenses and diagnostic certifications. One student said he plans to pursue further education while traveling for work in the diesel field.
Welding students displayed a fabricated stove project and discussed certifications such as OSHA safety credentials and specialized welding qualifications. Another senior said welding offers opportunities nationwide and plans to pursue pipeline work after graduation.
Electrical program students demonstrated training boards featuring dimmer switches, transformers and wiring systems while explaining industry certifications and career paths ranging from line work to commercial electrical construction.
An HVAC student described earning a federal refrigerant-handling certification as a sophomore, allowing him to legally purchase and work with refrigerants — a credential board members noted is rare for someone still in high school.
In cosmetology, a senior announced she had already passed her state boards and is now working toward a teaching license. Health-assisting students discussed CPR certification, clinical knowledge and participation in SkillsUSA competitions.
Students in advanced manufacturing and engineering technology programs highlighted training on Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery, 3D modeling and industry software, along with opportunities to earn multiple technical certifications before graduation. One junior said he hopes to become a CAD engineer, citing problem-solving and design experience gained in class projects.
School officials said many programs also offer co-op placements, job shadowing and adult education options, and they emphasized the role of career-technical education in preparing students for both employment and further study.
Board members praised the presenters’ confidence and professionalism, noting their instructors remained seated during the presentations — a sign, they said, that students were well prepared and capable of speaking for themselves.
