(Seguin) — The Seguin Economic Development Corporation recently celebrated local high school seniors and their futures during its sixth annual Industry Signing Days. The event recognizes students from Seguin ISD and Navarro ISD who are committing to careers, apprenticeships, and technical training after graduation.
Jessica Dersen, workforce development manager for the Seguin Economic Development Corporation, says the ceremony gives students pursuing technical and vocational careers the same recognition often associated with college-bound seniors.
“What’s so significant about this event is that it’s an opportunity to celebrate the high school graduates who have completed an industry-based certification in their CTE program and they made a commitment to either pursue a career right after high school or pursue vocational and technical training, such as partners in the region like Texas State Technical College. So most of the time students are familiar with College Signing Day or Decision Day, but there’s a majority of students who decide to really pursue either vocational training and workforce,” said Dersen.
Dersen says the format used on Industry Signing Day mirrors the traditional athletic signing day, but instead of signing with colleges or universities, students sign letters of intent for job offers, apprenticeships, or technical education opportunities.
Dersen says the event is also designed to recognize the support systems and employers helping students launch their careers.
“It’s a time to invite family, friends, to celebrate and acknowledge those students, as well as the employers who come out and they witness the student signing that letter of intent that they’ll pursue their employment or workforce,” said Dersen.
The students being honored this year are entering fields such as advanced manufacturing, electrical services, HVAC, health sciences, and other skilled trades.
Officials from both school districts say the event underscores the value of CTE programs in preparing students for successful careers while strengthening the local workforce.
The students in the Navaro ISD signed last Tuesday followed the next day by Seguin ISD students.