Creating the workforce of tomorrow.

That was the message a handful of Carbon Career and Technical Institute students brought to the Carbon County Commissioners’ meeting on Thursday.

The discussion centered on a proclamation that was adopted recognizing February as Career and Technical Education Month in Carbon County.

Students spoke about their areas of education, which included welding, marketing and nursing, and the importance that CCTI has played in preparing them for their future careers. The school provides several areas of technical education that students can choose from.

Rachelle McFeeley of Jim Thorpe said the welding program at CCTI has helped the local economy because it prepares them to graduate high school and enter the workforce.

CCTI has given her the skills in “time management, teamwork and dependability.”

“It also allows you to apply yourself and show your initiative,” McFeeley said.

Autumn Benedict of Palmerton, who participates in the health medical program, said she has gained the hands-on experience she needs to know this is the career she wants to pursue.

She plans to go to college to get a bachelor’s of nursing and will graduate from CCTI with a certified nursing aide certificate.

Other students who spoke include Abigail Orach, Kyle Nothstein and Kelsey Mehlig.

Following their presentations, the commissioners presented the students with newspaper pages from when the school, then known as the Carbon County Vocational Technical School, was established in 1966.

Commissioner Chris Lukasevich thanked the students for their commitment to their trades, to their personal and professional development and to the future economic vitality of both Carbon County and the country.

“We are extremely fortunate to have young individuals like yourselves committing to the trades at this time in our nation,” he said.

Commissioners’ Chairman Wayne Nothstein said that CCTI highlights that fact that students can pursue well-paying and family sustaining careers through learning these trades.

Commissioner Rocky Ahner, who attended CCVTS and has been a business owner for 35 years, said the school provides plenty of opportunities.

“Carpenter, electrician, plumbers are a few of skilled trades that are in high demand, without them we do not survive,” he said, adding that every area of skills learned at CCTI are important for the economy of the area.

He also encourages the public to visit the next open house at CCTI.

“You would be amazed at the opportunities for our local students and adults,” Ahner said.

For more information on CCTI, visit the school’s website at http://carboncti.org.