More than 75 students from area high schools took part in the sixth annual Blount County Job Signing Day activities at the Airport Hilton as they inked with 38 local employers to begin their careers.
These seniors either took career and technical education (CTE) courses on a career pathway, earned an industry certification in school, or participated in work-based Learning (WBL).
“We talk a lot about keeping talent here in Blount County, and I mean that,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “We want our best and brightest to know there are real opportunities right here at home. You don’t have to leave to build a great life, have a great career, and make a difference.
“Now let me say something that needs saying — college is a great path for many people, but it is not the only path. Success doesn’t come from one road. It comes from hard work, showing up on time, treating people right, and being willing to keep learning.”
Students are taking positions in welding, media production, construction, nursing, cosmetology, advanced manufacturing, electrical apprenticeships, and more.
Some of the companies offering these students positions are Yearwood Motorsports, Xtreme Tower Products, Wilson Brothers Plumbing, Anderson Lumber, Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Millwright, Prisma Total Rehabilitation, Garner Automotive, Blackberry Farm, Knoxville Area Transit, Allevia Technology, ICC International, DCS Electronics, Massey Electric, Joseph Construction, Danny Davis Electric, Roger L. Newman Company, and Morningview Village Senior Community.
Presented by the Blount Partnership, signing day promotes the notion that although every student’s path may be different, and sometimes nontraditional, there are opportunities for meaningful careers in Blount County. It also celebrates the fact that there are multiple opportunities for high school students to explore and begin preparing for careers. Some students are going on to start their careers full-time, some are going to continue a combination of school and work, and some are going to work now with the plan of starting school later.
“These students have earned this moment through career and technical education, work-based learning, internships, industry certifications, and dedication in the classroom and beyond. They are proving there are many pathways to success, and today we celebrate each one of them,” said Blount Partnership communications director Jeff Muir. “We believe these students deserve to be recognized with the same excitement and pride as any athlete signing to play at the next level. Today is their signing day, and this community is proud of them.”
Even sponsors included Cherokee Millwright, Prisma Healthcare, Blackberry Farm, EdFinancial, GEAR, Maryville City Schools Foundation, Massey Electric, TCAT, and Joseph Construction.