CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – Franklin County Career and Technology Center welcomed Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams) and local elected officials Thursday for a roundtable discussion focused on career and technical education, student outcomes and workforce needs.
The event brought together CareerTech students, school leadership and workforce partners to discuss enrollment trends, program offerings, job placement success and ongoing challenges in technical education.
Mastriano invited Franklin County officials to participate in the panel-style discussion, which included Commissioners Dean Horst and Robert Ziobrowski, state Reps. Rich Irvin (R-Huntington), Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin) and Chad Reichard (R-Franklin), along with student representatives from several CareerTech programs.
Student panelists included Braden Lehman, landscaping and horticulture; Mariska Neff, allied health; Okli Cretin, auto collision; and Cody Drawbaugh, electrical occupations. Each shared firsthand experiences about their training, career goals and the impact of hands-on learning opportunities.
Participants emphasized the value of career and technical education in preparing students for in-demand careers while addressing regional workforce shortages. The discussion also highlighted CareerTech’s role in providing affordable, skills-based education pathways.
Organizers said the roundtable gave attendees a clearer understanding of CareerTech’s impact and its position within public education.
At the conclusion of the event, Mastriano presented Freedom Medals to the student panelists in recognition of their participation and achievements.
CareerTech officials expressed appreciation for the support of local and state leaders, noting continued collaboration is key to strengthening workforce development initiatives.
