Unless someone has attended a school like Pioneer Career and Technology Center, or has a student there, the school’s programs may not be well known. With as many as 35 career training programs, the school prepares students to become future employees and also provides area businesses with training.
Some of their career training programs culminate in certifications. Some of the available certifications are available in the areas of automotive, cosmetology, food service, medical, welding, and computers.
The cosmetology department, for example, recently reported a 100 percent pass rate on the state certification test.
A fall tour at the school revealed that the variety of options at the school includes a fleet of 8-10 heavy trucks for their Diesel Mechanics class. Industrial Diesel Mechanics instructor Darin Beal said, “There’s a need for these skills and the school has been very supportive.”
Michael Millward teaches Exercise Science and Sports Medicine.
“In the Exercise Science route we look at how to train properly, how to lose weight, how to be bigger, faster, stronger,” stated Millward.
“In sports medicine careers we get into occupational therapy, physical therapy, and athletic training. The majority of kids go into either physical/occupational therapy or athletic training. Some go into exercise science with an emphasis in strength conditioning.
“We’re not like a welding class where you leave here with credentials and go right into the workforce,” he continued, “Most of them are going to go on to college, go post-secondary and then look into physical therapy.”
Medical Technologies instructor Dawn Roberts helps prepare students to work in phlebotomy or as nurse assistants or in patient care. And while medical training may seem a more predictable course of study, in Eric Winbliger’s class students may be asked to stand at attention, because if you’re going to study Homeland Security and Terrorism, military discipline is not out of order.
Pioneer is the only vocational school in the state offering the Homeland Security and Terrorism program that prepares students for a variety of law enforcement or military careers. During their junior year, all students complete Ohio Peace Officer Training.
There’s also practical application close to home. For example, Winbigler and his students were on hand for Shelby’s Polar Xpress in November to help make it a safe event.
Other courses of study at Pioneer include Industrial Electrical Technician, Carpentry, Computer-Aided Drafting, Culinary Arts, Graphic Arts, Performing Arts. Pioneer also offers adult education courses.
The school is hosting an open house on Thursday, Jan. 29 from 6 – 8 p.m. for area high school sophomores and their families to explore all of their programs. Students can also apply online that evening.
The campus is located at 27 Ryan Road in Shelby. For more information, call 419-347-7744 or visit their website at www.go2pioneer.com.
