The Carbon Career and Technical Institute brought the world of career and technical education to life at Jim Thorpe School District’s Penn Kidder Campus on Nov. 21, sparking excitement and curiosity among students through a series of interactive experiences.

Approximately 160 fifth grade Penn Kidder students rotated through five stations where CCTI staff and students demonstrated some of the skills and activities involved in their technical areas and provided an overview of CCTI.

The following CCTI instructors and students provided the presentations: Donna McClain, health medical assistant; Rick Stettler, electrical automation and distribution; Tara Benyo, engineering technology; Carly Rinda, digital marketing and business fundamentals; and Michelle Allen, principal, joined students Zane Zimmerman, Landen Thomas, engineering technology; Saleena Hollis, Layleigh Schlegel, Shylah Fenstermaker, Jalissa Mantilla, and Zoey Moyer, health medical assistant; Victoria Brown and Grace Politi, digital marketing and business fundamentals; and Kameron Behler and Blake Miniger, electrical distribution and automation.

The CCTI students and staff showcased the diverse opportunities available in the technical areas, engaging young minds with hands-on activities and immersive demonstrations.

The students had the chance to interact directly with different technical areas and students and staff, fostering a deeper understanding of potential career paths.

The enthusiastic response from students underscored the success of the initiative, as they actively participated and absorbed the valuable insights presented.

This positive experience not only sparked interest but also provided students with a glimpse into the possibilities that await them beyond the classroom.

The event was a huge success said Administrative Director, Dave Reinbold, who wished to thank Jim Thorpe Superintendent Robert Pressley; Holly Mordaunt, principal; and Board Member Gerald Strubinger for hosting and co-planning the activity.