“It’s a win-win.”

"I feel like this is giving me a head start, and it’s helping people. So it’s a win-win.”

Churchill High School senior Wesley Chandler is one of nearly 40 Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) students who got real-world, hands-on experience working on homes for two families near Von Ormy.

Electrical students pulled wires through two homes being built by Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio. They ensured the wires were connected to the correct boxes working closely with a contractor. Behind the homes, construction students put together sheds by standing up walls, screwing them together and making sure they met the proper measurements.

“We are eventually going to get to install fans, lights and other things,” said Wesley. “It’s a pretty fun project and such a unique experience.”

CTEC students graduate college with real-world experience and job-ready certifications. CTEC also works closely with several contractors to help students find lucrative employment after graduation.

“We also teach the first-year curriculum of the adult apprenticeship program,” said CTEC Electrical instructor Victor Casares. “So, as soon as they graduate from our program, they’re able to go in as a second-tier apprentice at the adult apprenticeship program.”

CTEC offers students training in construction technology, medical professions and transportation technology. The deadline to apply is February 7. Click here to apply.