⚡ Once-in-a-high-school experience for our Electrical Occupations students! ⚡
Students recently had a front-row view of major electrical infrastructure in action as I.B. Abel completed part of a nearly four-mile transmission line project for a new FirstEnergy substation near Reading Regional Airport.
The highlight? Watching a helicopter use guide ropes to install transmission lines—an unforgettable look at how large-scale electrical systems are built. The project will boost reliability for more than 6,000 customers and support continued growth in the region.
Thank you to I.B. Abel for sharing their expertise and taking time to speak with our students about the work, the technology, and the careers behind it.
Students recently had a front-row view of major electrical infrastructure in action as I.B. Abel completed part of a nearly four-mile transmission line project for a new FirstEnergy substation near Reading Regional Airport.
The highlight? Watching a helicopter use guide ropes to install transmission lines—an unforgettable look at how large-scale electrical systems are built. The project will boost reliability for more than 6,000 customers and support continued growth in the region.
Thank you to I.B. Abel for sharing their expertise and taking time to speak with our students about the work, the technology, and the careers behind it.
Arch Rivals 🧱
Masonry students put their skills to the test with a hands-on brick arch project that combined precision, planning, and creativity. Each student “rolled for the rise,” determining a unique arch height and design before building custom forms and supports.
One student took it even further, constructing a walk-through Gothic arch inspired by medieval castles—proof that no two builds (or challenges) are ever the same.
Masonry students put their skills to the test with a hands-on brick arch project that combined precision, planning, and creativity. Each student “rolled for the rise,” determining a unique arch height and design before building custom forms and supports.
One student took it even further, constructing a walk-through Gothic arch inspired by medieval castles—proof that no two builds (or challenges) are ever the same.
Engineering in Action! ⚙️
Mechatronics Engineering Technology students had an exciting and hands-on day at Alvernia University’s Engineering Jam 2026! As part of Engineering Week, this interactive event brought together high school teams to tackle real engineering design challenges, collaborate with peers, share creative solutions, and put their projects to the test — all while learning from Alvernia faculty, engineering students, and industry partners.
From pitching ideas and building prototypes to solving engineering problems and exploring opportunities in STEM fields, our students represented BCTC with curiosity, teamwork, and innovation.
❤️🩸 Share the Love
From planning to execution, Hailey and Kaitlyn—third-year Sports Medicine & Rehabilitative Therapy students from Fleetwood—took charge of hosting a “Share the Love” blood drive in support of the American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania.
Led as part of their senior project, the student-led effort collected more than 50 units of blood. Inspired by personal connections to loved ones battling cancer, their work turned care into action and made a meaningful, lifesaving impact.
🎟️ The Tech + Talent Fest Raffle Is Now OPEN!
Our digital, cashless raffle is officially live—and packed with some seriously exciting prizes!
Even better? Every ticket purchased helps support hands-on learning experiences and student opportunities at Berks Career & Technology Center.
👉 Enter here: go.rallyup.com/bctcttf2026/Campaign/Details
And don’t forget—Tech + Talent Fest is happening NEXT WEEK! Join us March 3 (West Campus) or March 4 (East Campus) from 5–8 PM to see our programs in action, explore student projects, and experience what learning looks like when it comes to life.
Our digital, cashless raffle is officially live—and packed with some seriously exciting prizes!
Even better? Every ticket purchased helps support hands-on learning experiences and student opportunities at Berks Career & Technology Center.
👉 Enter here: go.rallyup.com/bctcttf2026/Campaign/Details
And don’t forget—Tech + Talent Fest is happening NEXT WEEK! Join us March 3 (West Campus) or March 4 (East Campus) from 5–8 PM to see our programs in action, explore student projects, and experience what learning looks like when it comes to life.
🔩 From the classroom to the shop floor
Precision and Computerized Machining Technology students recently toured Brentwood Industries, where they saw advanced machining, automated systems, and quality control processes in action—connecting their training to real-world manufacturing.
A standout moment: meeting BCTC alumni now working at Brentwood and hearing firsthand how their path from PCMT led directly into the industry.
Precision and Computerized Machining Technology students recently toured Brentwood Industries, where they saw advanced machining, automated systems, and quality control processes in action—connecting their training to real-world manufacturing.
A standout moment: meeting BCTC alumni now working at Brentwood and hearing firsthand how their path from PCMT led directly into the industry.
Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, the Berks Career and Technology center will operate a virtual learning day, tomorrow 2/23/2026. The campuses will be closed for in person learning. Students are expected to log into Schoology and complete an assignment from their instructor. Failure to complete this assignment by 3:00pm will result in an unexcused absence for the day. Thank you.
🎬 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
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!
🌟 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.
