🎬 Student Voices. Real Impact. 💙
Video & Media Content Production students are making their voices heard in the statewide Prevent Suicide PA Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest—an annual competition that challenges high school students to create powerful 30–60 second videos promoting suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
After advancing through initial judging, 3 teams are now in the final round of public voting. Their PSAs focus on hope, connection, and support.
🗳️ Public voting is open through March 6, 2026. Help amplify student voices by watching the PSAs and voting daily: psa.preventsuicidepa.org/2026-public-voting-videos
Video & Media Content Production students are making their voices heard in the statewide Prevent Suicide PA Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest—an annual competition that challenges high school students to create powerful 30–60 second videos promoting suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
After advancing through initial judging, 3 teams are now in the final round of public voting. Their PSAs focus on hope, connection, and support.
🗳️ Public voting is open through March 6, 2026. Help amplify student voices by watching the PSAs and voting daily: psa.preventsuicidepa.org/2026-public-voting-videos
We’re Hiring: HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor
Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) is seeking a motivated HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor to prepare the next generation of skilled technicians. This role centers on creating a hands-on, engaging learning environment while mentoring students toward graduation, career readiness, and industry success.
Qualified candidates will bring real-world HVAC/refrigeration experience, strong technical and communication skills, and the ability to deliver engaging, lab-based instruction in a safe, well-equipped learning environment. Pennsylvania Department of Education certification in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology (or eligibility to obtain certification) is required, along with a minimum of four years of full-time wage-earning industry experience beyond training.
If you’re driven to share your HVAC and refrigeration expertise and want to make a meaningful difference for students, we encourage you to explore this opportunity. Full details and application information are available at www.berkscareer.com/page/employment-opportunities. Refer to job ID# 465.
Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) is seeking a motivated HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor to prepare the next generation of skilled technicians. This role centers on creating a hands-on, engaging learning environment while mentoring students toward graduation, career readiness, and industry success.
Qualified candidates will bring real-world HVAC/refrigeration experience, strong technical and communication skills, and the ability to deliver engaging, lab-based instruction in a safe, well-equipped learning environment. Pennsylvania Department of Education certification in Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology (or eligibility to obtain certification) is required, along with a minimum of four years of full-time wage-earning industry experience beyond training.
If you’re driven to share your HVAC and refrigeration expertise and want to make a meaningful difference for students, we encourage you to explore this opportunity. Full details and application information are available at www.berkscareer.com/page/employment-opportunities. Refer to job ID# 465.
What a day at BCTC! 🦺🚛
We were proud to host our second Construction & Transportation Career Day, bringing together students, educators, and local business and industry partners under one roof.
Students connected directly with employers to explore career pathways and industry expectations, while younger learners gained insight into the opportunities available in construction and transportation fields. Employers also had the chance to see firsthand the skills students are developing every day at BCTC—and to start meaningful conversations about future careers.
A big thank you to our industry partners for investing their time, expertise, and support in our students and programs.
We were proud to host our second Construction & Transportation Career Day, bringing together students, educators, and local business and industry partners under one roof.
Students connected directly with employers to explore career pathways and industry expectations, while younger learners gained insight into the opportunities available in construction and transportation fields. Employers also had the chance to see firsthand the skills students are developing every day at BCTC—and to start meaningful conversations about future careers.
A big thank you to our industry partners for investing their time, expertise, and support in our students and programs.
Real World Experience Drives Career Success! 🔧🚘
Meet Billy, a senior Automotive Technology student who’s shifting gears and accelerating his career through hands-on learning! Through his co-op at Levan Machine and Truck Equipment, Billy is gaining real experience working on advanced lighting systems and electrical integrations in vehicles — including complex installs on police vehicles. His co-op experience isn’t just classroom theory — it’s real work, real skills, and real confidence as he prepares to graduate with a job waiting for him.
📲 Read the full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2662883
Meet Billy, a senior Automotive Technology student who’s shifting gears and accelerating his career through hands-on learning! Through his co-op at Levan Machine and Truck Equipment, Billy is gaining real experience working on advanced lighting systems and electrical integrations in vehicles — including complex installs on police vehicles. His co-op experience isn’t just classroom theory — it’s real work, real skills, and real confidence as he prepares to graduate with a job waiting for him.
📲 Read the full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2662883
Yesterday, the BCTC Education Foundation awarded more than $18,000 in mini-grants to seven BCTC programs—opening the door to new tools, resources, and hands-on learning opportunities for our students.
These grants are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, financial institutions, and community partners who believe in career and technical education. We’re grateful to the BCTC Education Foundation for their continued investment in our programs—and in the students building their futures here every day.
These grants are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, financial institutions, and community partners who believe in career and technical education. We’re grateful to the BCTC Education Foundation for their continued investment in our programs—and in the students building their futures here every day.
💗 Sharing the Love Through Service 💗
This month, National Technical Honor Society students put caring into action—giving their time, energy, and hearts to support others across our community.
👟 1,200+ pairs of shoes were collected and donated to those in need through their Shoe Drive, with help from Daniel Boone and Exeter School Districts.
🍲 Blankets of Hope turned bowls of chili into warmth, with each purchase helping provide a blanket for someone facing the cold.
✨ At Night to Shine, students volunteered as buddies, helped with activities, and made sure every guest felt celebrated and valued.
We’re proud of our NTHS students for showing what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in kindness, compassion, and community—especially during the month of love.
This month, National Technical Honor Society students put caring into action—giving their time, energy, and hearts to support others across our community.
👟 1,200+ pairs of shoes were collected and donated to those in need through their Shoe Drive, with help from Daniel Boone and Exeter School Districts.
🍲 Blankets of Hope turned bowls of chili into warmth, with each purchase helping provide a blanket for someone facing the cold.
✨ At Night to Shine, students volunteered as buddies, helped with activities, and made sure every guest felt celebrated and valued.
We’re proud of our NTHS students for showing what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in kindness, compassion, and community—especially during the month of love.
Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, the Berks Career and Technology Center will be operating on a 2-hour delay on 2/16/2026. Thank you.
🥉 Putting their skills to the test.
Michael and Sahil, 3rd-year Automotive Technology students, earned 3rd place at the Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealers Association High School Technician Competition.
The fast-paced event pushed students through a series of timed, hands-on stations covering automotive diagnostics, electrical systems, brake measurement, and real-world problem solving—requiring skill, focus, and efficiency at every step. Their performance earned them a scholarship to Universal Technical Institute, along with professional tools they’ll use well beyond the classroom.
Michael and Sahil, 3rd-year Automotive Technology students, earned 3rd place at the Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealers Association High School Technician Competition.
The fast-paced event pushed students through a series of timed, hands-on stations covering automotive diagnostics, electrical systems, brake measurement, and real-world problem solving—requiring skill, focus, and efficiency at every step. Their performance earned them a scholarship to Universal Technical Institute, along with professional tools they’ll use well beyond the classroom.
🩺 Taking the Next Step Toward Healthcare Careers
Level 3 Health Occupations students are officially stepping into clinical care as they begin their Nurse Aide Training rotations. Over five days, students will complete 40 hours of immersive, hands-on experience at Berks Heim Nursing & Rehabilitation—putting classroom learning into action while working alongside healthcare professionals in a real clinical environment.
This milestone marks a shift from practice to purpose, bringing their training to life and moving them closer to meaningful careers in healthcare.
Level 3 Health Occupations students are officially stepping into clinical care as they begin their Nurse Aide Training rotations. Over five days, students will complete 40 hours of immersive, hands-on experience at Berks Heim Nursing & Rehabilitation—putting classroom learning into action while working alongside healthcare professionals in a real clinical environment.
This milestone marks a shift from practice to purpose, bringing their training to life and moving them closer to meaningful careers in healthcare.
A Story of Determination and Growth 💪
Meet Lauren Oliva, a senior from Boyertown Area Senior High School and a dedicated Dental Occupations student. Born in Cuba and now a dual citizen of the United States, Lauren’s journey is one defined by determination, resilience, and a strong commitment to her goals.
🦷 Through hands-on learning at BCTC, Lauren Oliva has earned multiple industry certifications ahead of schedule while continuing to build real-world clinical skills. With encouragement and high expectations from her instructor, Mrs. DeCarlo, she continues to rise to every challenge placed before her.
🔗 Read the full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2662994
Meet Lauren Oliva, a senior from Boyertown Area Senior High School and a dedicated Dental Occupations student. Born in Cuba and now a dual citizen of the United States, Lauren’s journey is one defined by determination, resilience, and a strong commitment to her goals.
🦷 Through hands-on learning at BCTC, Lauren Oliva has earned multiple industry certifications ahead of schedule while continuing to build real-world clinical skills. With encouragement and high expectations from her instructor, Mrs. DeCarlo, she continues to rise to every challenge placed before her.
🔗 Read the full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2662994
🤖⚙️ Challenge Mode: Activated.
Mechatronics Engineering Technology students are gearing up for this year’s SeAL Challenge, where problem-solving, precision, and teamwork take center stage. From refining systems to testing ideas under real-world constraints, students are putting their skills to the test as they prepare to compete.
It’s hands-on learning with a purpose—and a great example of how classroom knowledge turns into practical experience. Stay tuned as the challenge approaches!
Mechatronics Engineering Technology students are gearing up for this year’s SeAL Challenge, where problem-solving, precision, and teamwork take center stage. From refining systems to testing ideas under real-world constraints, students are putting their skills to the test as they prepare to compete.
It’s hands-on learning with a purpose—and a great example of how classroom knowledge turns into practical experience. Stay tuned as the challenge approaches!
🚛 Now Hiring: Diesel Technology Instructor
BCTC is seeking a motivated Diesel Technology Instructor who’s ready to share real-world experience and help shape the next generation of diesel technicians. This role is all about hands-on learning—guiding students in the lab, building strong technical skills, and preparing them for graduation, career readiness, and long-term success in the industry.
The ideal candidate brings solid experience working on medium- to heavy-duty trucks, a commitment to safety and industry standards, and the ability to connect with students in a dynamic, lab-based environment. Pennsylvania Department of Education certification in Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology (or eligibility to obtain it) is required.
If you’re passionate about diesel technology and ready to make a lasting impact in the classroom, we’d love to hear from you. For detailed information about this career opportunity or to apply, please visit www.berkscareer.com/page/employment-opportunities. Refer to job ID#464.
BCTC is seeking a motivated Diesel Technology Instructor who’s ready to share real-world experience and help shape the next generation of diesel technicians. This role is all about hands-on learning—guiding students in the lab, building strong technical skills, and preparing them for graduation, career readiness, and long-term success in the industry.
The ideal candidate brings solid experience working on medium- to heavy-duty trucks, a commitment to safety and industry standards, and the ability to connect with students in a dynamic, lab-based environment. Pennsylvania Department of Education certification in Medium/Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology (or eligibility to obtain it) is required.
If you’re passionate about diesel technology and ready to make a lasting impact in the classroom, we’d love to hear from you. For detailed information about this career opportunity or to apply, please visit www.berkscareer.com/page/employment-opportunities. Refer to job ID#464.
🌟 Career Camp Registration Is Now Open! 🌟
This summer, students can explore hands-on careers, try new skills, and experience what learning looks like at BCTC. From working with tools and technology to creative and career-focused activities, Career Camp gives students a chance to discover what sparks their interest—all in a fun, engaging environment.
Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait!
👉 Learn more and register here: berkscareer.com/o/bctc/page/career-camp
This summer, students can explore hands-on careers, try new skills, and experience what learning looks like at BCTC. From working with tools and technology to creative and career-focused activities, Career Camp gives students a chance to discover what sparks their interest—all in a fun, engaging environment.
Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait!
👉 Learn more and register here: berkscareer.com/o/bctc/page/career-camp
🎒🏒 A Day Away with the Reading Royals!
Service Occupations students enjoyed a day away at Santander Arena, cheering on the Reading Royals during their Education Day game. A fun change of scenery and a great opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom!
Service Occupations students enjoyed a day away at Santander Arena, cheering on the Reading Royals during their Education Day game. A fun change of scenery and a great opportunity to take learning beyond the classroom!
🔧 Turning Problems Into Power
Automotive Technology students are getting hands-on with the systems that keep vehicles moving. From diagnosing and working on starters to rewiring plugs, they’re sharpening the troubleshooting skills real technicians rely on every day.
At the same time, our 3rd-year students are gearing up and practicing for their automotive inspection certification test — an important step toward industry credentials and career readiness.
Automotive Technology students are getting hands-on with the systems that keep vehicles moving. From diagnosing and working on starters to rewiring plugs, they’re sharpening the troubleshooting skills real technicians rely on every day.
At the same time, our 3rd-year students are gearing up and practicing for their automotive inspection certification test — an important step toward industry credentials and career readiness.
Big sparks of innovation today ⚙️🔥
Welding Technology students stepped out of the lab and into the industry at the Miller Training Facility, where they got a hands-on preview of some of the latest technology shaping the future of welding. From advanced equipment to real-world applications, students explored the tools and techniques they’ll soon see on job sites and in fabrication shops.
Welding Technology students stepped out of the lab and into the industry at the Miller Training Facility, where they got a hands-on preview of some of the latest technology shaping the future of welding. From advanced equipment to real-world applications, students explored the tools and techniques they’ll soon see on job sites and in fabrication shops.
Old metal. New purpose. Real skills.
HVAC / Refrigeration students have been learning how to refurbish sheet metal — cleaning, restoring, and preparing materials before turning them into custom duct “elbows.” Before any bending or shaping begins, the work starts with understanding the material itself and bringing it back to a usable, professional standard.
This process teaches more than fabrication. It builds respect for materials, attention to detail, and the kind of hands-on problem solving HVAC technicians use in the field every day. 🔧
HVAC / Refrigeration students have been learning how to refurbish sheet metal — cleaning, restoring, and preparing materials before turning them into custom duct “elbows.” Before any bending or shaping begins, the work starts with understanding the material itself and bringing it back to a usable, professional standard.
This process teaches more than fabrication. It builds respect for materials, attention to detail, and the kind of hands-on problem solving HVAC technicians use in the field every day. 🔧
Lights, camera, career connections 🎬
Video & Media Content Production students were in the studio capturing real-world career stories as part of the Berks Business Education Coalition (BBEC)'s Intern Insights series. In the spotlight: Tom Masano and a student intern from the Wyomissing Area School District, sharing how classroom learning leads straight into meaningful workplace experiences.
VMCP students have teamed up with the BBEC to produce 10 professional videos highlighting internship programs across our sending schools — handling the filming, audio, and editing.
Big stories. Real skills🔥
Video & Media Content Production students were in the studio capturing real-world career stories as part of the Berks Business Education Coalition (BBEC)'s Intern Insights series. In the spotlight: Tom Masano and a student intern from the Wyomissing Area School District, sharing how classroom learning leads straight into meaningful workplace experiences.
VMCP students have teamed up with the BBEC to produce 10 professional videos highlighting internship programs across our sending schools — handling the filming, audio, and editing.
Big stories. Real skills🔥
Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, the Berks Career and Technology Center will be operating on a 2-hour delay, tomorrow 1/30/2026. Thank you.
Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, the Berks Career and Technology Center will be operating on a 2-hour delay, tomorrow 1/29/2026. Thank you.
