Results from today's regional Skills USA welding competition. Logan Bassett placed 5th in welding and qualified for state. Our fabrication team qualified for state and only top four qualify. Welding sculpting team received a bye and qualified for state. Congrats to all!
Blue River Career Programs will be on a 2 hour delay today, 2/19/2026. There will be no AM session.
Mrs. Thurston's Education Professions students are going through CPR certification.
Today's CTE spotlight is our Fire and Rescue Program
Program spotlight:
Course Overview:
The EMT capstone course at Blue River Career Programs is the culminating component of the Fire Rescue program. This course is designed to reinforce and integrate the knowledge, and skills students have developed throughout their training. It focuses on advanced patient assessment, emergency response procedures, trauma and medical scenario management, and professional communication within a healthcare team. Through hands-on simulations and real-world scenarios, students demonstrate competency in critical thinking, decision-making, and safe patient care. The capstone ensures that students meet the required standards of the National Registry of EMTs, as well as the State of Indiana, and are prepared to enter the field of emergency medical and fire services. The Blue River Career Programs Fire-Rescue course focuses on the fundamentals of the fire service and EMS. Beginning Junior year and returning Senior year. Students have the opportunity to receive State certification in Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations along with Firefighter I and Firefighter II and National registry NREMT. These certifications combined enable the student to meet the state minimum requirements to begin a career or volunteer in the fire service in the state of Indiana.
Student spotlight:
Mason Moore. Mason comes to BRCP from Hauser High School. Mason is a second-year student in the EMT Capstone course. The following is what Mason has said about the BRCP Fire-Rescue Program:
What The Class Means to Me:
The EMT capstone course at Blue River Career Programs means so much to me because it has been more than just a class—it has felt like a family. The supportive environment created by both instructors and classmates made it possible to grow, learn, and push through challenges together. The program provides high-quality training with a strong balance between classroom instruction and hands-on skills, ensuring that every concept is not only understood but applied. The real-world scenarios and practice have helped prepare us for the realities of emergency medicine, building confidence and critical thinking in high-pressure situations. I am truly grateful for the dedication, guidance, and experience this program has given me, and it has left a lasting impact on both my education and my future in EMS.
Program spotlight:
Course Overview:
The EMT capstone course at Blue River Career Programs is the culminating component of the Fire Rescue program. This course is designed to reinforce and integrate the knowledge, and skills students have developed throughout their training. It focuses on advanced patient assessment, emergency response procedures, trauma and medical scenario management, and professional communication within a healthcare team. Through hands-on simulations and real-world scenarios, students demonstrate competency in critical thinking, decision-making, and safe patient care. The capstone ensures that students meet the required standards of the National Registry of EMTs, as well as the State of Indiana, and are prepared to enter the field of emergency medical and fire services. The Blue River Career Programs Fire-Rescue course focuses on the fundamentals of the fire service and EMS. Beginning Junior year and returning Senior year. Students have the opportunity to receive State certification in Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations along with Firefighter I and Firefighter II and National registry NREMT. These certifications combined enable the student to meet the state minimum requirements to begin a career or volunteer in the fire service in the state of Indiana.
Student spotlight:
Mason Moore. Mason comes to BRCP from Hauser High School. Mason is a second-year student in the EMT Capstone course. The following is what Mason has said about the BRCP Fire-Rescue Program:
What The Class Means to Me:
The EMT capstone course at Blue River Career Programs means so much to me because it has been more than just a class—it has felt like a family. The supportive environment created by both instructors and classmates made it possible to grow, learn, and push through challenges together. The program provides high-quality training with a strong balance between classroom instruction and hands-on skills, ensuring that every concept is not only understood but applied. The real-world scenarios and practice have helped prepare us for the realities of emergency medicine, building confidence and critical thinking in high-pressure situations. I am truly grateful for the dedication, guidance, and experience this program has given me, and it has left a lasting impact on both my education and my future in EMS.
Today's CTE spotlight is our Work Based Learning Program.
Program Spotlight:
Work Based Learning (WBL) is a career and technical education course designed to provide opportunities for students to explore their career choice that require additional degrees of certification following high school. The emphasis of the experience is on applying skills developed through instruction and learning new career competencies at the internship site. Two types of internships are available, paid and non-paid. Students who choice paid internship have a pathway that has given them a certification or special training that allows students to be paid. Students average $17 per hour while in high school and most importantly gain real life work experience. Students who choose the non-paid internship have an incredible opportunity to observe what their career will be like and gain knowledge and experience before they pursue their post-secondary education. An example of a non-paid internship would be a student with a medical pathway interning at a hospital. Locally Major Hospital has teamed up with Blue River Career Center Work Base Learning program and offers an incredible internship for where students go through rotation of departments. Other examples of non-paid internship that students have been involved in include veterinarian, criminal justice, business, dental, cosmetology, firefighting, marketing, teaching, social services , and the list goes on. Work Base Learning allows a Senior in high school to bridge the gap of high school to the true world of work.
Student spotlight:
I have had the privilege of getting to know Mia Garthwaite as her Work Based Learning Program instructor. I am impressed with the maturity and confidence Mia presents in her words and actions. Mia's disposition and demeanor with her classmates, internship mentors, patients , and myself make her a pleasure to work with.
I personally recognize Mia for ambition, passion, and determination. I am confident that with her positive attitude, willingness to serve others , and God given talents she will be successful in achieving her goal to be a top notch dentist.
Mia is incredibly intelligent, goal driven , hardworking, put the what make her my outstanding student is Mia cares about others and willing to serve that make it an honor to have in my Work Based Learning class of 2026.
Program Spotlight:
Work Based Learning (WBL) is a career and technical education course designed to provide opportunities for students to explore their career choice that require additional degrees of certification following high school. The emphasis of the experience is on applying skills developed through instruction and learning new career competencies at the internship site. Two types of internships are available, paid and non-paid. Students who choice paid internship have a pathway that has given them a certification or special training that allows students to be paid. Students average $17 per hour while in high school and most importantly gain real life work experience. Students who choose the non-paid internship have an incredible opportunity to observe what their career will be like and gain knowledge and experience before they pursue their post-secondary education. An example of a non-paid internship would be a student with a medical pathway interning at a hospital. Locally Major Hospital has teamed up with Blue River Career Center Work Base Learning program and offers an incredible internship for where students go through rotation of departments. Other examples of non-paid internship that students have been involved in include veterinarian, criminal justice, business, dental, cosmetology, firefighting, marketing, teaching, social services , and the list goes on. Work Base Learning allows a Senior in high school to bridge the gap of high school to the true world of work.
Student spotlight:
I have had the privilege of getting to know Mia Garthwaite as her Work Based Learning Program instructor. I am impressed with the maturity and confidence Mia presents in her words and actions. Mia's disposition and demeanor with her classmates, internship mentors, patients , and myself make her a pleasure to work with.
I personally recognize Mia for ambition, passion, and determination. I am confident that with her positive attitude, willingness to serve others , and God given talents she will be successful in achieving her goal to be a top notch dentist.
Mia is incredibly intelligent, goal driven , hardworking, put the what make her my outstanding student is Mia cares about others and willing to serve that make it an honor to have in my Work Based Learning class of 2026.
Blue River Career Programs will be on a 2 hour delay today, 2/16/2026. There will be no AM session. Have a good day!
Just a reminder that BRCP is IN session on Monday, February 16, 2026, as a snow make-up day from December. See everyone on Monday!
Today's CTE spotlight is our Health Sciences CNA program.
Program spotlight:
In year 1, tasks are completed to make students eligible to sit for their state CNA exam. Students learn nurse aide skills through hands-on experience during clinical time spent at local nursing facilities. During classroom time, students learn about topics such as dementia care, CPR, medical terminology, and the basics of how healthcare works. To help students fine tune skills, time is spent in the lab completing simulations and patient centered scenarios.
In the 2nd year, CNA Capstone, students continue earning dual credits through studying medical law and ethics. Students are now CNA certified and go out into the community to work, volunteer, job shadow, etc. Students begin to network, build confidence, communication skills, and further their real-life experience. Whether students plan to go to college or straight into a healthcare career, this program helps them discover their passion and prepares them for success.
Student Spotlight:
The health science CNA spotlight student is Morristown, Senior, Katelyn Theobald.
Last school year, she successfully completed the requirements and state exam for the CNA certification. This year she wanted to explore the animal science world. Through the capstone program, she has been able to gain a vast amount of knowledge and experiences though volunteering and shadowing at facilities that provide care to animals.
Program spotlight:
In year 1, tasks are completed to make students eligible to sit for their state CNA exam. Students learn nurse aide skills through hands-on experience during clinical time spent at local nursing facilities. During classroom time, students learn about topics such as dementia care, CPR, medical terminology, and the basics of how healthcare works. To help students fine tune skills, time is spent in the lab completing simulations and patient centered scenarios.
In the 2nd year, CNA Capstone, students continue earning dual credits through studying medical law and ethics. Students are now CNA certified and go out into the community to work, volunteer, job shadow, etc. Students begin to network, build confidence, communication skills, and further their real-life experience. Whether students plan to go to college or straight into a healthcare career, this program helps them discover their passion and prepares them for success.
Student Spotlight:
The health science CNA spotlight student is Morristown, Senior, Katelyn Theobald.
Last school year, she successfully completed the requirements and state exam for the CNA certification. This year she wanted to explore the animal science world. Through the capstone program, she has been able to gain a vast amount of knowledge and experiences though volunteering and shadowing at facilities that provide care to animals.
Earlier this week we hosted around 20 community stakeholders as we held our key stakeholder meeting to help develop our comprehensive local needs assessment plan for the next two years. A lot of valuable and insightful discussion was held.
A big THANK YOU goes out to Cagney's Pizza King for providing lunch to celebrate our Students of the Month!
Today's CTE spotlight is our CCMA program.
Program Spotlight:
Blue River Career Programs Highlights Health Science CCMA Program as Pathway to In-Demand Healthcare Careers
Shelbyville, IN — Blue River Career Programs (BRCP) is proud to highlight its Health Science – Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program, a rigorous, hands-on career and technical education pathway that prepares high school students for immediate employment and postsecondary success in the healthcare field.
Designed for juniors and seniors, the two-year CCMA program provides students with foundational knowledge and real-world clinical skills essential for today’s healthcare environments. Students receive instruction in both clinical and administrative medical assisting, aligning with national workforce standards and industry expectations.
Throughout the program, students gain experience in patient care and medical office procedures, including taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, assisting with clinical procedures, administering medications, performing basic laboratory tasks, and maintaining accurate medical documentation. Emphasis is also placed on professionalism, communication, medical ethics, and legal responsibilities in healthcare.
A key component of the program is its clinical practicum, which allows students to apply classroom learning in real healthcare settings through partnerships with surrounding county medical facilities. This experience provides valuable exposure to patient care, teamwork, and professional expectations while helping students build confidence and career readiness.
Students enrolled in the Health Science CCMA program may earn up to 12 high school credits and have the opportunity to earn dual college credit through Ivy Tech Community College. Upon completion, students are prepared to sit for the National Health career Association (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam, a nationally recognized credential that enhances employability immediately after graduation.
In addition to technical training, students are encouraged to participate in HOSA – Future Health Professionals, where they develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and explore healthcare career pathways through competitive events and professional development opportunities.
The Health Science CCMA program exemplifies Blue River Career Programs’ mission to provide high-quality career and technical education that connects students to real-world opportunities and high-demand careers.
For more information about the Health Science CCMA program or enrollment opportunities, visit Blue River Career Programs or contact the BRCP office.
Student Spotlight:
Elise “Ellie” Farmer: Building a Future in Health Care
Elise Farmer is a first-year medical assisting student at Blue River Career Programs who is already gaining hands-on experience in the health care field. With a long-standing interest in veterinary science, Elise has always been drawn to helping others through science and medicine. That early passion has guided her toward a broader path in health care, where she can continue learning and serving in meaningful ways.
Elise plans to enter the military after completing her program to further her education and expand her real-world experience in health care. She sees military service as an opportunity to strengthen her skills, gain discipline, and explore advanced medical training while giving back.
In the image, Elise—known as Ellie to many—can be seen drawing blood at her clinical site at Rush Memorial Hospital. The moment captures her focus and professionalism as she applies classroom knowledge in a clinical setting, taking confident steps toward a future in health care.
Program Spotlight:
Blue River Career Programs Highlights Health Science CCMA Program as Pathway to In-Demand Healthcare Careers
Shelbyville, IN — Blue River Career Programs (BRCP) is proud to highlight its Health Science – Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program, a rigorous, hands-on career and technical education pathway that prepares high school students for immediate employment and postsecondary success in the healthcare field.
Designed for juniors and seniors, the two-year CCMA program provides students with foundational knowledge and real-world clinical skills essential for today’s healthcare environments. Students receive instruction in both clinical and administrative medical assisting, aligning with national workforce standards and industry expectations.
Throughout the program, students gain experience in patient care and medical office procedures, including taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, assisting with clinical procedures, administering medications, performing basic laboratory tasks, and maintaining accurate medical documentation. Emphasis is also placed on professionalism, communication, medical ethics, and legal responsibilities in healthcare.
A key component of the program is its clinical practicum, which allows students to apply classroom learning in real healthcare settings through partnerships with surrounding county medical facilities. This experience provides valuable exposure to patient care, teamwork, and professional expectations while helping students build confidence and career readiness.
Students enrolled in the Health Science CCMA program may earn up to 12 high school credits and have the opportunity to earn dual college credit through Ivy Tech Community College. Upon completion, students are prepared to sit for the National Health career Association (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification exam, a nationally recognized credential that enhances employability immediately after graduation.
In addition to technical training, students are encouraged to participate in HOSA – Future Health Professionals, where they develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and explore healthcare career pathways through competitive events and professional development opportunities.
The Health Science CCMA program exemplifies Blue River Career Programs’ mission to provide high-quality career and technical education that connects students to real-world opportunities and high-demand careers.
For more information about the Health Science CCMA program or enrollment opportunities, visit Blue River Career Programs or contact the BRCP office.
Student Spotlight:
Elise “Ellie” Farmer: Building a Future in Health Care
Elise Farmer is a first-year medical assisting student at Blue River Career Programs who is already gaining hands-on experience in the health care field. With a long-standing interest in veterinary science, Elise has always been drawn to helping others through science and medicine. That early passion has guided her toward a broader path in health care, where she can continue learning and serving in meaningful ways.
Elise plans to enter the military after completing her program to further her education and expand her real-world experience in health care. She sees military service as an opportunity to strengthen her skills, gain discipline, and explore advanced medical training while giving back.
In the image, Elise—known as Ellie to many—can be seen drawing blood at her clinical site at Rush Memorial Hospital. The moment captures her focus and professionalism as she applies classroom knowledge in a clinical setting, taking confident steps toward a future in health care.
Today's CTE spotlight is our Construction Trades program.
The Construction Trades class has a long history of educating student and equipping them with the right tools and knowledge to build quality homes in Shelbyville. Students have a wide range of exposure to various Careers available to them , Residential and Commercial. Students also have the opportunity to earn 15 Ivy Tech Dual Credits along with 2 Nationally recognized Certifications. This program offers the opportunity to combine classroom knowledge with Hands on Skills practiced daily to build a home from start to finish in the community.
Mr. Bramell would to like to spotlight one of many students in the program, Senior Chris Cecil from Southwestern High School. Chris is a 2nd year student and has great attendance and stives to learn all he can in his chosen field. Chris has good work ethic and pays attention to details to understand how things are to be built right. Chris is thinking about a future in the Electrical Field or Heavy Equipment / Machinery. Chris has a bright future ahead of him!
The Construction Trades class has a long history of educating student and equipping them with the right tools and knowledge to build quality homes in Shelbyville. Students have a wide range of exposure to various Careers available to them , Residential and Commercial. Students also have the opportunity to earn 15 Ivy Tech Dual Credits along with 2 Nationally recognized Certifications. This program offers the opportunity to combine classroom knowledge with Hands on Skills practiced daily to build a home from start to finish in the community.
Mr. Bramell would to like to spotlight one of many students in the program, Senior Chris Cecil from Southwestern High School. Chris is a 2nd year student and has great attendance and stives to learn all he can in his chosen field. Chris has good work ethic and pays attention to details to understand how things are to be built right. Chris is thinking about a future in the Electrical Field or Heavy Equipment / Machinery. Chris has a bright future ahead of him!
Today's CTE spotlight is our Education Professions program:
🍎 Shape the Future with Blue River’s Education Professions!
Are you ready to turn your passion for working with kids into a head start on your career? The Education Professions program at Blue River Career Programs is where future educators come to play, learn, and lead! Whether you dream of being a teacher, a counselor, or a coach, our program lets you dive into the classroom from day one.
You'll spend your time mastering "fun teacher stuff"—like creating engaging lessons and activities—while gaining real-world experience twice a week as a cadet teacher at local schools. Along the way, you’ll earn FREE college credits through Ivy Tech and check off a graduation requirement bucket.
We get to hang out with cute kids, attend exciting events like the FCCLA Conference, and take fun, educational field trips. We are even planning a Princess Party fundraiser to engage with our community! If you like kids and you’re looking for a warm, supportive environment where you can learn to inspire the next generation, come join us—because making a difference has never been this much fun.
CTE Month Student Spotlight: Gladis Cruz Hernandez
In celebration of CTE Month, we are proud to spotlight Gladis Cruz Hernandez, an outstanding student in our Education Professions program! Gladis is a wonderful young woman with a "heart of gold"—always pleasant, kind, and ready to lend a helping hand.
Twice a week, Gladis serves as a cadet teacher at a local preschool, where her supervisor raves about her ability to engage with children and lead activities with ease. Beyond her work in the field, she is a vital part of our classroom community at Blue River Career Programs. Gladis routinely goes above and beyond by assisting a fellow classmate with ELL (English Language Learner) translation, providing support that has become truly indispensable.
Whether she is teaching a preschool lesson or helping a peer bridge a language gap, Gladis is sweet, funny, and brings a warm energy that everyone around her can feel. We are so lucky to have her inspiring the next generation!
🍎 Shape the Future with Blue River’s Education Professions!
Are you ready to turn your passion for working with kids into a head start on your career? The Education Professions program at Blue River Career Programs is where future educators come to play, learn, and lead! Whether you dream of being a teacher, a counselor, or a coach, our program lets you dive into the classroom from day one.
You'll spend your time mastering "fun teacher stuff"—like creating engaging lessons and activities—while gaining real-world experience twice a week as a cadet teacher at local schools. Along the way, you’ll earn FREE college credits through Ivy Tech and check off a graduation requirement bucket.
We get to hang out with cute kids, attend exciting events like the FCCLA Conference, and take fun, educational field trips. We are even planning a Princess Party fundraiser to engage with our community! If you like kids and you’re looking for a warm, supportive environment where you can learn to inspire the next generation, come join us—because making a difference has never been this much fun.
CTE Month Student Spotlight: Gladis Cruz Hernandez
In celebration of CTE Month, we are proud to spotlight Gladis Cruz Hernandez, an outstanding student in our Education Professions program! Gladis is a wonderful young woman with a "heart of gold"—always pleasant, kind, and ready to lend a helping hand.
Twice a week, Gladis serves as a cadet teacher at a local preschool, where her supervisor raves about her ability to engage with children and lead activities with ease. Beyond her work in the field, she is a vital part of our classroom community at Blue River Career Programs. Gladis routinely goes above and beyond by assisting a fellow classmate with ELL (English Language Learner) translation, providing support that has become truly indispensable.
Whether she is teaching a preschool lesson or helping a peer bridge a language gap, Gladis is sweet, funny, and brings a warm energy that everyone around her can feel. We are so lucky to have her inspiring the next generation!
Today's CTE program spotlight is our Criminal Justice program:
CTE Program Spotlight: Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice CTE program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, and public service by blending academic knowledge with real-world skills. Students explore criminal law, investigative procedures, ethics, and community safety while developing critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities. Through hands-on activities, scenario-based learning, and career exploration, the program equips students with a strong foundation for postsecondary education and future success in the criminal justice field.
Student Spotlight: Emma Rios
Emma Rios is an outstanding student in the Criminal Justice program who consistently demonstrates excellence and dedication. She is an A student who is always on task, attentive, and fully invested in her learning. Emma actively engages in class discussions, approaches assignments with maturity and focus, and shows a genuine passion for the field of criminal justice. Her strong work ethic and commitment to growth set her apart, and she is well on her way to achieving great success in a future criminal justice career.
CTE Program Spotlight: Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice CTE program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, and public service by blending academic knowledge with real-world skills. Students explore criminal law, investigative procedures, ethics, and community safety while developing critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities. Through hands-on activities, scenario-based learning, and career exploration, the program equips students with a strong foundation for postsecondary education and future success in the criminal justice field.
Student Spotlight: Emma Rios
Emma Rios is an outstanding student in the Criminal Justice program who consistently demonstrates excellence and dedication. She is an A student who is always on task, attentive, and fully invested in her learning. Emma actively engages in class discussions, approaches assignments with maturity and focus, and shows a genuine passion for the field of criminal justice. Her strong work ethic and commitment to growth set her apart, and she is well on her way to achieving great success in a future criminal justice career.
Congratulations to our January Staff Member of the Month, Ami Johns! Ami is our Core Indicator Coordinator. Thank you for all you do for BRCP!
Today's CTE spotlight is our two Welding Technology classes:
CTE Program Spotlight: Welding Technology
The Blue River Welding Technology program is a two-year welding program that focuses on hands-on training and the theory of welding. In this program, students can earn dual credentials through Ivy Tech, as well as industry-recognized certifications. Most importantly, students can acquire a highly in-demand skillset and future employment opportunities. Students will learn various processes of welding, cutting, and forming metals. The welding program provides a lot of opportunities for students to learn and grow as they navigate their way into adulthood. Through guest speakers, field trips, and project-based lab experiences, students will find themselves learning what it takes to become a welder and industry professional. The Blue River Welding Program has had a lot of students graduate the program and enter the workforce with great success. Our goal in the welding program is to continue to foster an inclusive environment and fill the growing skills gap we see in the industry.
Student Spotlight: Jorge Partida and Wyatt Fisher
Jorge Partida is our Welding Technology CTE spotlight student. Jorge is an extremely dedicated welder in only his first year. He constantly tries to improve his already excellent welding skills. Rarely have I seen a student with this maturity level. He will leave here and represent our program in the workforce at a very high level. It is an honor to have him in our program.
Wyatt Fisher:
From a young age, I have always enjoyed working with my hands. Knowing this, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me this opportunity. The first time I held a MIG torch in my hands was at the age of 13; and since that day, I have hit the ground running. I received my first machine at the age of 14, beginning with small side jobs or passion projects. Now, I have made multiple sculptures, competed in various welding competitions, and tackled many custom fab projects. I am also responsible for overseeing all welding repairs at a grain elevator where I work.
Some of the skills that I have acquired would have been impossible if not for Blue River. During my time at BR, my capabilities have rapidly expanded. I have learned a variety of different welding techniques and processes that have greatly contributed towards my understanding of welding principles. It has been a blessing to have access to use a variety of different machinery.
Also, during my time at Blue River, my interest in becoming a welding instructor was ignited. I have enjoyed learning from my accomplished instructor, Mr. Bousum, who has also been a great mentor. When older, I wish to pass on welding information to others, like Bousum has to me.
Upon completing high school, I will be studying welding fabrication at Hobart Institute of Welding Technology this fall. Once I finish, it is my intent to enter the welding industry, working in fabrication, later transitioning towards becoming a welding instructor. Regardless of where I may end up, I know that with my work ethic and experiences, I will be successful.
CTE Program Spotlight: Welding Technology
The Blue River Welding Technology program is a two-year welding program that focuses on hands-on training and the theory of welding. In this program, students can earn dual credentials through Ivy Tech, as well as industry-recognized certifications. Most importantly, students can acquire a highly in-demand skillset and future employment opportunities. Students will learn various processes of welding, cutting, and forming metals. The welding program provides a lot of opportunities for students to learn and grow as they navigate their way into adulthood. Through guest speakers, field trips, and project-based lab experiences, students will find themselves learning what it takes to become a welder and industry professional. The Blue River Welding Program has had a lot of students graduate the program and enter the workforce with great success. Our goal in the welding program is to continue to foster an inclusive environment and fill the growing skills gap we see in the industry.
Student Spotlight: Jorge Partida and Wyatt Fisher
Jorge Partida is our Welding Technology CTE spotlight student. Jorge is an extremely dedicated welder in only his first year. He constantly tries to improve his already excellent welding skills. Rarely have I seen a student with this maturity level. He will leave here and represent our program in the workforce at a very high level. It is an honor to have him in our program.
Wyatt Fisher:
From a young age, I have always enjoyed working with my hands. Knowing this, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me this opportunity. The first time I held a MIG torch in my hands was at the age of 13; and since that day, I have hit the ground running. I received my first machine at the age of 14, beginning with small side jobs or passion projects. Now, I have made multiple sculptures, competed in various welding competitions, and tackled many custom fab projects. I am also responsible for overseeing all welding repairs at a grain elevator where I work.
Some of the skills that I have acquired would have been impossible if not for Blue River. During my time at BR, my capabilities have rapidly expanded. I have learned a variety of different welding techniques and processes that have greatly contributed towards my understanding of welding principles. It has been a blessing to have access to use a variety of different machinery.
Also, during my time at Blue River, my interest in becoming a welding instructor was ignited. I have enjoyed learning from my accomplished instructor, Mr. Bousum, who has also been a great mentor. When older, I wish to pass on welding information to others, like Bousum has to me.
Upon completing high school, I will be studying welding fabrication at Hobart Institute of Welding Technology this fall. Once I finish, it is my intent to enter the welding industry, working in fabrication, later transitioning towards becoming a welding instructor. Regardless of where I may end up, I know that with my work ethic and experiences, I will be successful.
Congratulations to our January Students of the Month---Jesse Hamlin, Christopher Cecil, Anna Osborne, and Emma Isgrigg. Great job!
Today's CTE program spotlight is our Culinary Arts program:
Program Spotlight:
The Culinary Arts pathway at Blue River is for any student interested in a career in the food service industry. Students will gain experience in both the classroom and the fully functional commercial kitchen.
Whether you want to work in a kitchen, design your own restaurant, or run a catering business, a Culinary Arts Career is a great choice for anyone who is customer service oriented, likes to work with food, and has the drive to succeed.
Student Spotlight:
Blue River Career Program Spotlight – Culinary Arts Program
Nyomi Collins – Nyomi is a Junior at Triton Central High School and a Capstone Student at Blue River Career Programs.
Chef: Why did you choose CTE at Blue River?
Nyomi’s response:
“I decided to join because I wanted to learn more about how the cooking industry works and there were culinary skills I did not know.”
Chef: Is there a specific skill you have learned while attending Culinary Arts here at Blue River?
Nyomi’s response:
“I have learned knife cuts and how to properly cut foods safely.”
Chef: Where do you see yourself in the culinary field, 10 years from now?
Nyomi’s response:
“10 years from now I see myself helping my staff in the restaurant I own.”
Chef: Outside of cooking in the kitchen, what is a hobby that you are truly passionate about?
Nyomi’s response:
“Other than cooking the thing I am most passionate about is working with or helping kids.”
Program Spotlight:
The Culinary Arts pathway at Blue River is for any student interested in a career in the food service industry. Students will gain experience in both the classroom and the fully functional commercial kitchen.
Whether you want to work in a kitchen, design your own restaurant, or run a catering business, a Culinary Arts Career is a great choice for anyone who is customer service oriented, likes to work with food, and has the drive to succeed.
Student Spotlight:
Blue River Career Program Spotlight – Culinary Arts Program
Nyomi Collins – Nyomi is a Junior at Triton Central High School and a Capstone Student at Blue River Career Programs.
Chef: Why did you choose CTE at Blue River?
Nyomi’s response:
“I decided to join because I wanted to learn more about how the cooking industry works and there were culinary skills I did not know.”
Chef: Is there a specific skill you have learned while attending Culinary Arts here at Blue River?
Nyomi’s response:
“I have learned knife cuts and how to properly cut foods safely.”
Chef: Where do you see yourself in the culinary field, 10 years from now?
Nyomi’s response:
“10 years from now I see myself helping my staff in the restaurant I own.”
Chef: Outside of cooking in the kitchen, what is a hobby that you are truly passionate about?
Nyomi’s response:
“Other than cooking the thing I am most passionate about is working with or helping kids.”
Today's CTE spotlight is our Auto Services Program.
Program spotlight:
The Automotive Technology class provides students with hands-on experience with the skills and knowledge needed to repair automobiles. Students learn how to safely and properly work on automobiles. Students work with a wide range of tools and equipment to work on automobiles. Students have access to Mitchell where they can find service information, tech bulletins, and recall information for automobiles. Automotive Technology class prepares students for their future in entry level jobs and further education in automotive repair.
Student spotlight:
Jackson Bentz is an outstanding student in Automotive Technology. Jackson is eager to learn & pays attention to detail. Jackson works well with others. Jackson is not afraid to tackle most jobs, if he is not sure on how to perform a task, he is not afraid to ask for help. Jackson is pretty good with trying to solve problems and finding solutions on his own. Jackson has a great work ethic. He is always looking for something to do. If Jackson doesn't have a vehicle to work on, he will clean in the shop, put tools away , and organize the shop. Jackson will be getting further education in automotive after graduation at UHNO.
Program spotlight:
The Automotive Technology class provides students with hands-on experience with the skills and knowledge needed to repair automobiles. Students learn how to safely and properly work on automobiles. Students work with a wide range of tools and equipment to work on automobiles. Students have access to Mitchell where they can find service information, tech bulletins, and recall information for automobiles. Automotive Technology class prepares students for their future in entry level jobs and further education in automotive repair.
Student spotlight:
Jackson Bentz is an outstanding student in Automotive Technology. Jackson is eager to learn & pays attention to detail. Jackson works well with others. Jackson is not afraid to tackle most jobs, if he is not sure on how to perform a task, he is not afraid to ask for help. Jackson is pretty good with trying to solve problems and finding solutions on his own. Jackson has a great work ethic. He is always looking for something to do. If Jackson doesn't have a vehicle to work on, he will clean in the shop, put tools away , and organize the shop. Jackson will be getting further education in automotive after graduation at UHNO.
