South Branch Career & Technical Center showcases programs; students notch state medals

Shelly Wetzel spoke to the Pendleton County Board of Education April 21 on behalf of South Branch Career and Technical Center, describing program offerings and student successes and asking the board to celebrate local accomplishments.

Wetzel outlined that the center serves middle and high school students from several area high schools and reported that current enrollment has grown to 556 students from about 229 eight years earlier, with projected enrollment of 640 for the coming year. She described exploratory and regular programs—cosmetology, automotive, welding, carpentry, broadcasting, drone and robotics, therapeutic services, law and public safety—and noted dual‑credit arrangements with Eastern and Potomac State College for specific courses.

Wetzel addressed common misconceptions about career and technical education, emphasizing that CTE supports both college‑bound and career‑bound students and that roughly "79% of CTE students enroll in college or a post‑secondary program," a figure she supplied to the board. She highlighted the center's instructional staff by name and listed program instructors and middle‑school coordinators.

The presentation included recognition of local SkillsUSA competitors and state winners. Multiple students were named for local first‑place finishes; Caitlin McQuain won gold at the state level and will represent Pendleton County at a national competition in Atlanta June 1–5. The presenter, and the board, applauded students for their awards and for high participation in CTSOs (Career and Technical Student Organizations).

Wetzel closed by answering no substantive questions from the board and expressing appreciation for board support of the vocational center.

The board did not take formal action on the presentation; the remarks were offered for information and recognition.