Jacksonville Onslow Chamber hosts annual Trades Day competition at Coastal Carolina Community College

The Onslow County Board of Education meeting on June 3, 2025, highlighted the annual Trades Day competition, celebrating the achievements of high school students in vocational trades. This event, held at Coastal Carolina Community College, is a collaboration between the Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce, Onslow County Schools, and the Onslow County Home Builders Association. It aims to promote workforce development and recognize student talent in various trades.

During the meeting, several students were honored for their first-place finishes in categories such as architectural drafting, automotive, culinary, and welding. Notable winners included Jaden Davis from Richlands High for architectural drafting, Cara Williams from Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center for automotive, and Haley Islandfelt for culinary arts. The recognition ceremony involved students, their teachers, and school administrators receiving certificates of appreciation.

Additionally, the meeting acknowledged the participation of students from Le Jeune High School, emphasizing the partnership with the skills center that allows students to take vocational classes. The event not only showcased student skills but also reinforced the community's commitment to fostering vocational education.

In other news, the meeting briefly mentioned that the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will welcome 75 Morehead Caine scholars this fall, representing a diverse group from across North Carolina and beyond. This initiative further underscores the importance of educational opportunities in the region.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform to celebrate student achievements in vocational education and to highlight ongoing efforts to enhance workforce readiness in Onslow County.