Signing for Success

Isle of Wight County Schools (IWCS) proudly hosted its annual Career and Technical Education (CTE) Signing Day, honoring 20 outstanding students from Smithfield and Windsor High Schools who are launching careers in high-demand fields: Welding, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Culinary Arts, and Early Childhood Education.
Surrounded by family, educators, and community leaders, these students signed letters of intent to begin careers or further education in their respective trades—demonstrating that success after high school comes in many forms.

This event highlights the district’s commitment to preparing students for life after graduation through its strong CTE programs and partnerships with industry-leading employers.

In the Welding program, several students secured positions with respected employers across the region. James Ferguson signed with Steel Tech, while Christopher Owens committed to Amadas. Brent Burgess accepted a position with RS Harriton, a NASA contractor, and Samuel Chambers will begin working with AllFirst. Four additional welding students—Jackson Helman, Nathan McDonough, Fleetwood Turner, and Korey Holding—earned apprenticeships or employment opportunities with Huntington Ingalls, one of the nation's premier shipbuilding companies.

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Patient Care Technician (PCT) programs also saw strong participation, with six students committing to local healthcare providers. Alexis Wiggins, Brianna Smith, Holly Williams, and Molly Myers will begin their careers at Riverside Health Systems, while Angelina Alcanices and Lilah Foster have chosen to join Helping Hands.

Culinary Arts student Charlene Sanderson will take the next step in her culinary journey with The Fiddlin' Pig in Smithfield, gaining hands-on experience in a professional kitchen.

In Early Childhood Education, five students signed letters of intent with the IWCS Ruby Slipper Preschool program, planning to return as educators after completing their college education. Those students are Cate Richard, Emmy Leonard, Madison Turner, Shamiya Charity, and Javontae McNeil. They will graduate as future teachers ready to inspire the next generation.

“These students are already making a difference,” said IWCS Superintendent Dr. Theo Cramer. “They represent the promise of our CTE programs and the strength of our partnerships with local businesses and organizations.”

Career Signing Day reaffirms the dedication of IWCS to supporting every learner’s pathway, whether into the workforce, the military, or higher education.

 

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