By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–TCAT representative Daniel Taylor played a little game of ‘Show and Tell’ with Union City Middle School 8th graders over the last few weeks.
Taylor, Vice President of Instruction and Development Technology at Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Northwest, first told members of Rhonda Clendenin’s Career Explorations classes about many post-secondary, non-college career options.
He then showed them examples.
Taylor visited the UCMS campus in mid-October to share with students the many programs offered by TCAT following high school graduation. Six weeks later, students toured TCAT’s facility at Newbern, getting a first-hand look at various skills training and hearing the requirements needed to become certified for opportunities in today’s workforce.
“I want students to know that there are other alternatives to going to college at a four-year institution,” Clendenin said of the experience. “Not everyone is cut out for college, but we all have a purpose and a gift that can be put into a career.
“I believe bringing in people like Mr. Taylor can educate students about other successful alternatives and career solutions.”
Students were divided into groups and visited each class offered at TCAT. Instructors provided a synopsis of their classes and detailed expected salaries once the program is finished.
The UCMS group also learned about completing community service hours in high school – something that will help reduce the cost of post-secondary education through TN Promise.
“I’ve told my 8th graders that they have four choices once they complete high school: Workforce, college, TCAT, or military,” Clendenin concluded. “They have to decide the best fit for them and their future.”