The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR)- The Jackson River Technical Center (JRTC), located in the heart of Alleghany Highlands, is at the forefront of preparing students for successful careers in a variety of skilled trades and technical fields. With an enrollment of 410 students for the 2024-2025 school year, JRTC continues to build on its legacy of providing hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials that open doors to high-demand careers. On Friday, March 14, Jackson River Technical Center held an open house to celebrate 50 years in the community and showcase the programs that they offer local students.
While the center’s total enrollment has increased slightly compared to the previous year—393 students in 2023-2024—the growth rate remains modest. As the second year of post-consolidation operations with a combined high school, it’s too early to identify clear enrollment trends. However, JRTC has seen a steady increase in numbers since recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is promising as the school continues to evolve and offer comprehensive career and technical education (CTE) programs.
Despite a small uptick in enrollment, JRTC officials emphasize that the focus is on quality education and the preparedness of students for the workforce, as evidenced by the wide array of industry certifications available to them.
A significant aspect of JRTC’s mission is ensuring that students leave with knowledge and real-world skills that make them highly employable. However, tracking how many graduates immediately enter the workforce remains a challenge. As the JRTC director points out, many students shift career paths shortly after graduation. Still, the Virginia Department of Education conducts a follow-up survey to track post-graduation outcomes. According to the latest survey of 2023 graduates, 27% were employed full-time in their field of study, while 57% held part-time positions, and less than 4% were unemployed. Impressively, 55% of students had enrolled in postsecondary education, continuing their educational journey.
Interest in adult evening classes at JRTC has recently been rekindled, and the center is excited to announce that it is in the planning phase of a new partnership with Mountain Gateway Community College’s Department of Workforce Solutions and Community Education. This collaboration will bring non-credit, single or series adult classes to the JRTC facility, utilizing its expert instructors. These opportunities may expand to include certification courses such as ServSafe, NCCER Core, and workshops in various skilled trades. JRTC is eager to offer these valuable programs, providing adult learners in the community with the skills and certifications needed to advance in their careers.
Students at JRTC are well-equipped for the workforce, earning certifications that are widely recognized across industries. Key programs at the center include Automotive Service Technology, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, and Nurse Aide, among others. Upon successful completion of courses, students take exams for certifications like the ASE-Entry Level Certification for Automotive Service or ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification for Culinary Arts students. For students in industrial trades programs like Welding and Electricity, credentials from the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) ensure they meet rigorous industry standards.
One key element that sets JRTC apart is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. Through partnerships with local businesses and healthcare providers, students have access to valuable job shadowing and internship opportunities. For example, LewisGale-Alleghany and Ridgeline Physical Therapy offer healthcare internships, while local businesses like Kissito-The Brian Center and Slaughter and Slaughter Family Dentistry provide job shadowing opportunities in various fields. These partnerships help students build industry connections and gain real-world experience that enhances their employability.
To ensure students learn the most relevant skills, JRTC maintains strong relationships with local businesses and industry experts. Program instructors meet regularly with advisory committees made up of community professionals to stay informed about current trends and workforce needs. Additionally, the school collaborates with regional organizations such as the Virginia Department of Education and Mountain Gateway Community College to ensure their programs align with the latest standards and technologies.
As JRTC moves forward in the 2024-2025 school year, it continues to focus on empowering students with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in today’s fast-changing job market. With a commitment to excellence in Career and Technical Education, JRTC is not just educating students; it is helping shape the workforce of tomorrow, one skilled graduate at a time.
