The Mitchell County Economic Development Commission (EDC), Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce, and Mitchell High and Mitchell Middle Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program are proud to announce a new collaborative initiative designed to highlight the importance of trade-related skills, support workforce development, and inspire students to pursue meaningful and sustainable career pathways.
Career and Technical Education plays a critical role in preparing students for future employment and post-secondary success by providing both academic knowledge and hands-on technical skills. In North Carolina alone, more than one million students in grades 7–12 participate in CTE courses each year, gaining practical experience through classroom instruction, laboratory work, and on-the-job training.
Mitchell High & Mitchell Middle Schools offer a comprehensive CTE program that includes business education, family and consumer sciences, health occupations, automotive mechanics, drafting, horticulture and animal science, and welding. These programs help students explore career options, develop occupational skills, and enter the workforce with a competitive advantage.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing the growing skills gap in today’s workforce and ensuring local students are prepared for high-demand careers. By connecting education with economic development and the local business community, the collaboration strengthens pathways from the classroom to the workplace.
“Career and Technical Education is essential to the future of Mitchell County’s workforce,” said Bill Slagle, Executive Director of the Mitchell County Economic Development Commission and Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce. “By partnering with Mitchell High School’s CTE program, we are investing directly in our students—encouraging critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset while helping young people see the real-world value of skilled trades and technical careers right here at home.”
As part of the initiative, the partners will recognize one CTE student each month who demonstrates excellence in critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Students will be selected based on teacher recommendations, reinforcing the importance of applying classroom learning to real-world challenges.
“This initiative is a great opportunity for our students,” said Erik Buchanan, CTE Director for Mitchell County Schools. “Our CTE teachers provide hands-on projects, field trips, and leadership opportunities that give students the skills to Employ, Enroll, or Enlist. It’s exciting for students to see their community supporting them, and we thank the Mitchell County EDC and Chamber of Commerce for recognizing the outstanding work they do.”
The initiative aligns with the missions of the Mitchell County Economic Development Commission and Mitchell Chamber to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for all county residents by recruiting new business, supporting existing employers, and serving as a reliable resource through strong partnerships, accountability, and exceptional customer service.
Together, the Mitchell County EDC, Chamber of Commerce, and Mitchell High & Middle Schools’ CTE Program are working to ignite tomorrow’s passions—empowering students today to become the skilled workforce and innovative leaders of tomorrow.
For more information about this initiative or Career and Technical Education opportunities at Mitchell High School, please contact the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce or the Mitchell County Economic Development Commission.
