WALDO — In order to help close the skills gap and raise awareness of career options in the skilled trades, Waldo County Technical Center (WCTC) participated in SkillsUSA National Signing Day, May 8. 

The event, sponsored by Klein Tools, celebrated thousands of high school seniors across the country pursuing a career in the skilled trades. WCTC was one of approximately 300 schools across the U.S. participating in National Signing Day, which recognized more than 2,500 students nationwide.

“We are thrilled we were able to partner with SkillsUSA and Klein Tools’ for the first-ever National Signing Day,” said Daniel Schaeffer, electrical instructor and SkillsUSA advisor at WCTC, in a news release. “As the shortage of skilled workers worsens, we at the technical center, encourage students to enter this rewarding industry upon graduation.”

“Our seniors should be very proud of everything they have accomplished at Waldo County Technical Center as they continue to further their education and training post-graduation. We wish them all the best as they prepare for their lifelong careers,” said Richard Benedict, carpentry instructor.

In a style similar to “National Signing Day” events for high school student athletes, Logan Pooler, Devin Landers, Anthime Brunette, Kevin Finley, and Stephen Finley, high school seniors at WCTC were recognized as they signed their “letters of intent” for a job offer, apprenticeship or advanced technical training.

Students were celebrated among school administrators, teachers, SkillsUSA advisors, as they take the next step in their education in building trades and renovations, HVAC or plumbing.

High school seniors also received a Klein Tools Signing Kit, which included a hat, T-shirt, and their first pair of Klein Tools pliers to begin their lifelong careers.

“This was an exciting day for our students as they committed to careers in the skilled trades,” said Kevin A. Michaud (KAM), director at Waldo County Technical Center. “These seniors have worked hard over
the years to prepare for this next chapter of their life. Through their education here at the technical center, our seniors understand the hard work needed to be successful in the trades. This recognition is very well deserved to each and every one of them.”

“The first National Signing Day was a success thanks to Waldo County Technical Center and its students,” said Mark Klein, co-president of Klein Tools. “Best of luck to these students as they enter the skilled trades to start their careers with their first pair of Klein Tools pliers.”

For more information on National Signing Day, visit: www.kleintools.com/nsd.

For more information on Waldo County Technical Center, visit: https://waldotech.org/