CTE student showcases projects as district and business partners highlight workforce connections
Summary
An Ashley High School senior described designing a house and a manufactured metal cart as part of New Hanover County Schools’ CTE pathway; industry partners including Wilmington Grill and Cape Fear Home Builders Association cited advisory boards and manufacturing tours as examples of hands‑on workforce training.
At the January board meeting, the district’s Career & Technical Education leadership showcased how school‑business partnerships translate into workforce pathways for students.
CTE director Mandy Mills introduced senior Alexa Grace of Ashley High School, who described three years of CTE coursework, industry apprenticeships and two capstone projects. “I designed a house… I spent eight months with these clients and with Tullyu Homes,” Grace said, describing an architectural apprenticeship that included 36 plan versions and contact with clients and builders. She also explained a year‑long project to design a stainless‑steel cart that Wilmington Grill helped manufacture; the finished project is now in use.
John Barber, general manager of Wilmington Grill, told the board the firm hosts tours, manufacturing camps and advisory‑board meetings to keep curricula aligned with industry needs. “We manufacture stainless steel grills here in Wilmington… we always want to promote manufacturing to students,” Barber said, describing quarterly advisory meetings held at high schools and collaborations with Cape Fear Community College.
Board members praised the students and partners for providing early workplace experience, technical certifications and soft skills training that help students decide on college majors or career paths. Superintendent Barnes and board members encouraged continued collaboration and thanked the students for representing the district.
No board action was required; the presentation was recognized as part of School Board Appreciation Month and CTE outreach.
