SKYCTC students and graduates are “GOING PRO:” signing on to careers with exceptional Kentucky companies

Bowling Green, KY — Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) proudly recognizes its students and graduates who are “Going Pro” by launching their careers with leading Kentucky employers. As part of the statewide initiative, “Kentucky’s Talent Take-off,” lawmakers, industry partners, and education leaders gathered at the Capitol Rotunda to celebrate students from across the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) who are committing to high-demand careers.

This celebration was part of Community College Month and underscores the critical role that KCTCS plays in addressing Kentucky’s workforce needs. With a growing state economy and increased employer demand, SKYCTC continues to lead efforts to upskill the workforce and prepare students for success.

In the past year alone, KCTCS colleges supported more than 54,000 jobs in Kentucky and graduated more than 16,000 students in vital industries including healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, skilled trades, and business services.

“The commonwealth has plenty of job openings everywhere; and, as a result, we need even more Kentuckians equipped with the much-needed tools and skills to succeed in the workplace,” said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles. “KCTCS ‘Going Pro’ Signing Day is proof positive that local community colleges are among the strongest resources the state has to meet employer demand – and that KCTCS is the Bluegrass’s premier workforce solution and a jobs juggernaut.”

SKYCTC hosted three signature events in celebration of “Going Pro” signings:

• Nursing students signed during the college’s Nursing College and Career Fair.
• Allied Health students were honored at the Allied Health Awards Ceremony.
• SKY FAME industrial maintenance students celebrated signings at the Franklin-Simpson Center.

“It’s really reassuring, especially to know that they’re working so well in hand with the school to try to get you career ready,” said Calvin Crandell, who signed with Delta Faucet. “There’s no turmoil trying to figure out what I’m going to do once I graduate. It’s really nice.”

“We recognize college and pro athletes’ signings to symbolize the next step in their careers,” said Dr. Kim Myers, dean of workforce solutions at SKYCTC. “This is our chance to recognize that same level of achievement for our students, and to thank the employers who are investing in their futures.”

“They’re not only earning a degree, but they’re also stepping directly into full-time employment with the skills that matter,” added Dr. Brooke Justice, interim president of SKYCTC. “This is a phenomenal opportunity for students to get a leg up on their careers.”

The initiative is supported by a strong network of public and private partners, including the Education and Labor Cabinet, Cabinet for Economic Development, Kentucky Chamber, Kentucky Association of Manufacturers, and many more. These partnerships ensure Kentucky students are equipped with real-world skills and direct pathways to employment.

Students interested in launching a high-demand career can apply today at: https://southcentral.kctcs.edu/. Employers seeking customized training or workforce development solutions can connect through SKYCTC Workforce Solutions.

Photos of all three signing events can be accessed at: https://www.facebook.com/SKYCTC/