CTE students use skilled labor simulator
Mitchell CTE students hit the open road and experience driving a big rig by using the skilled labor simulator through Be Pro, Be Proud NC. The simulator was at Mitchell High for two days.
As part of its quest to offer students hands-on learning opportunities, Mitchell County Schools Career and Technical Education recently offered a unique way to experience skilled labor.
Local CTE students, as part of the Be Pro, Be Proud NC organization, used skilled labor simulators to experience different jobs.
Mitchell CTE focuses on providing students with opportunities to prepare for future careers and college pursuits through courses, speakers, field trips and other hands-on opportunities, such as skilled labor simulators.
The simulator was recently set up for two days at Mitchell High. Students in several CTE classes and some eighth graders used the simulator to get hands-on.
The high-tech, $2 million simulator let the students operate a crane, try their hand at driving an 18-wheeler and navigate a worksite with an articulated dump truck.
Using virtual reality simulators, the students also explored skills in HVAC, welding, plumbing, carpentry, electrical and lineman work. Careers in such skilled labor jobs are available every year and the average age of workers in those fields is over 50, per the CTE department.
Mitchell CTE continues to encourage students to realize the opportunities for skilled labor and other industries seeking new talent.
The simulator rig was used in an effort to bridge the gap between workers leaving carers and recruiting young men and women to those spots.
CTE officials are working to schedule the simulator to return to the Mitchell High Career Expo in April.
For more information on the simulator, visit beprobeproudnc.org.