☘️ Lucky to Give Back!

Health Occupations students Skymar, Mayte, Ava, and Hanah recently brought a little St. Patrick’s Day spirit to campus by organizing a themed blood drive for the Miller-Keystone Blood Center.

Thanks to their hard work and the generosity of donors, the drive collected 36 units of blood—helping provide lifesaving support to patients in need across our community. 🍀💉
29 days ago, BCTC
Four BCTC Health Occupations students wearing shamrock headbands stand in front of gold “Happy St. Patrick’s Day” balloons and hold green clover decorations during a themed blood drive.
Student donor relaxes in a reclining chair while donating blood during the BCTC St. Patrick’s Day blood drive, holding a snack and drink.
Student donor sits in a blood donation chair during the campus blood drive, holding a soda and snack while the blood collection machine is connected to their arm.
Student donor wearing an orange shirt reclines in a blood donation chair while holding a plush pillow during the Miller-Keystone blood drive at BCTC.
Adult donor relaxes in a reclining chair while giving blood during the St. Patrick’s Day themed blood drive at BCTC, holding a snack and drink.
Student donor seated in a blood donation chair hugs a plush unicorn while donating blood during the campus blood drive.
Student donor relaxes in a blood donation chair holding a plush pig and snacks while donating blood at the BCTC blood drive.
Student donor sits comfortably in a blood donation chair holding a plush toy while donating blood during the BCTC blood drive.
Student donor relaxes in a donation chair holding a plush Highland cow while giving blood at the St. Patrick’s Day themed blood drive.
Student donor seated in a blood donation chair holds a welcome card and plush cow after giving blood during the Miller-Keystone blood drive.
A Podium Finish! 🏁🔧

Automotive Technology students put their skills to the test at the Greater Philadelphia Auto Technology Competition—and drove away with 2nd place!

Congratulations to Andrew and Haylie, both from Boyertown Area Senior High School, for representing BCTC and demonstrating the diagnostic and repair skills they’ve been building in the lab.

Competing against top technical students from across the region, they tackled a series of hands-on automotive challenges that put their training to work in real time.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
Andrew and Haylie, Automotive Technology students from Boyertown Area Senior High School, stand with their instructor and another competitor while holding trophies in front of a “Greater Philadelphia Tech Comp” backdrop after earning 2nd place.
🦷 Heroes Behind the Mask 😷 This week, we’re celebrating our Dental Occupations students during Dental Assistants Recognition Week! Dental assistants are the heroes behind the mask—supporting dentists, caring for patients, and helping every dental office run smoothly. We’re proud to see our students preparing to step into this important role in the dental field.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
Graphic from the American Dental Assistants Association showing a tooth logo and green banner reading “Superheroes behind the Smiles.”
Dental Occupations students wearing superhero-style masks pose together in a dental lab classroom beside a screen displaying the “Superheroes behind the Smiles” Dental Assistants Recognition Week graphic.
Dental Assistants Recognition Week

From design to press! 🖥️➡️🖨️

Advertising Art & Design Technology students recently got a behind-the-scenes look at what happens when creative work goes to print. Thanks to the Susquehanna Litho Club, students toured Prestige Color in Lancaster, exploring professional printing equipment and connecting with local commercial printers.

Seeing the process firsthand helped bring the print production side of design to life and showed students where their creativity can take them next. 🎨

about 1 month ago, BCTC
Advertising Art & Design Technology students sit along a brick ledge outside Prestige Color printing facility in Lancaster beneath a sign that reads “Prestige Color – Printing | Mailing | Fulfillment.”
Advertising Art & Design Technology students stand inside a commercial print facility beside large printing equipment during a tour of Prestige Color in Lancaster.

Due to current and forecasted weather conditions, the Berks Career and Technology Center will be operating on a 2-hour delay, today 03/03/26. Please check the "Nurses / Attendance" page on the homepage of our website for full details of expectations based on your sending school district. Failure to complete the listed expectations will result in an unexcused absence for the day. Thank you. 

about 1 month ago, Matt Fabrizio
Snow-covered rural road with tire tracks leading into the distance, lined by trees coated in snow and a utility pole with wires overhead. A large teal rectangle in the foreground contains white text that reads: “BCTC is on a 2-hour delay.”
⚡ 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.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
Helicopter installing transmission lines using a suspended guide rope against a cloudy sky.
Electrical Occupations students stand outdoors with an I.B. Abel representative on campus.
Large group of Electrical Occupations students and I.B. Abel team members gathered near a work vehicle.
Wide group photo of students and industry partners standing in front of a helicopter at the project site.
I.B. Abel crew members stand in front of a branded company truck during the site visit.
Helicopter flies low while guiding transmission lines across an open field near utility poles.
Electrical Occupations students listen as industry professionals speak during the site visit.
Helicopter hovers above a field while a worker manages a guide rope below during line installation.
Students gather around a helicopter on the ground as professionals explain the equipment and process.
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.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
Masonry student stands beside a partially built brick Gothic arch supported by a wooden form.
Masonry student applies mortar while building a brick arch structure in a hands-on lab.
Masonry student sets bricks on a small arch form, smiling toward the camera in the lab.
Masonry student kneels beside a brick arch form, checking alignment with a hand tool.
Masonry student wearing safety glasses measures the top of a brick column inside a construction lab.
Two masonry students crouch near completed brick columns and arches inside the lab space.
Masonry student spreads mortar on a brick column using a trowel during class instruction.

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.

about 1 month ago, BCTC
A group of Mechatronics Engineering Technology students and an instructor pose behind a table displaying a small tower structure built during an engineering challenge inside a gymnasium.
Mechatronics Engineering Technology students stand together smiling behind a table with a completed engineering structure made from lightweight materials during a team challenge.
A Mechatronics Engineering Technology student kneels on the floor carefully adding metal weights to a small tower structure as classmates observe during a hands-on engineering challenge.
Several Mechatronics Engineering Technology students kneel closely together while testing the strength of a small tower structure by placing weighted plates on top.

❤️🩸 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.

about 1 month ago, BCTC
Two students sit behind a check-in table at a blood drive with a laptop, water bottles, and a handmade “Share the Love, Give Some Blood” sign displayed in front.
A student lies on a donation bed during a blood drive, smiling while connected to blood collection equipment in a classroom-style setting.
Three students sit at a table holding snacks and drinks after donating blood, with medical staff and donation stations visible in the background.
A student lies on a donation bed while a Red Cross staff member prepares blood collection equipment, with additional donation stations and staff visible in the room.
Three students sit in chairs holding paperwork and personal items while waiting during a blood drive, with tables and other participants visible in the background.
A student lies on a donation bed and smiles toward the camera during a blood drive, with medical equipment and other donation stations visible behind her.
🎟️ 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.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
Flyer for BCTC Tech + Talent Fest showing a student welding. Event is March 3 at West Campus and March 4 at East Campus, 5–8 PM, featuring hands-on programs, student projects, and demonstrations.
🔩 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.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
A large group of Berks Career & Technology Center Precision and Computerized Machining Technology students and instructors stand together on a staircase inside a modern manufacturing facility during an industry tour, posing for a group photo.

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. 

about 2 months ago, BCTC
A snow-covered rural road stretches into the distance, lined with tall trees coated in fresh snow. Some trees still have clusters of brown leaves. Power lines run along the right side of the road. In the foreground, a teal rectangular banner displays white text that reads, “BCTC WILL OPERATE A VIRTUAL LEARNING DAY.”
🎬 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
about 2 months ago, BCTC
White domino tiles arranged in multiple curved lines on a dark background, with some dominoes standing upright and others fallen, visually representing a chain reaction.
A young person sitting on the ground in a wooded area looks up as another person extends a hand toward them, symbolizing help, support, and connection.
Students wearing virtual reality headsets stand and walk through a school hallway, participating in an immersive activity that explores perspective and experience.
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.
about 2 months ago, BCTC
Students in a BCTC construction lab speak with industry representatives at a display table during Construction and Transportation Career Day, reviewing materials and completing sign-in paperwork.
A BCTC student talks with representatives from an HVAC, plumbing, and construction company at an informational table set up inside a construction lab during Career Day.
A group of BCTC students listens as an industry professional explains career opportunities at a transportation-focused exhibit featuring diesel engine components and tools.
Students gather at an industry information table inside a BCTC classroom while representatives discuss career pathways and hands-on opportunities during Construction and Transportation Career Day.
An industry professional speaks with BCTC students at an informational table, answering questions about careers and skills related to construction and transportation fields.
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
about 2 months ago, BCTC
Student wearing safety glasses uses a cordless drill to work on the rear light area of a pickup truck inside an automotive shop, standing beside the truck bed with tools and equipment visible in the background.
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.
about 2 months ago, BCTC
Graphic with the words “Exciting News!” displayed in white text inside a teal circle with a megaphone icon.
Student wearing safety glasses sands the edge of a wooden cabinet in a Berks Career & Technology Center workshop, focusing on surface finishing.
Video and Media Content Production student operates a professional video camera in front of a green screen studio backdrop.
Health Occupations student practices taking blood pressure on another student using a manual cuff and stethoscope in a simulated clinical classroom.
Cosmetology student applies hair color to a mannequin head in a salon classroom while practicing professional cosmetology techniques.
💗 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.
about 2 months ago, BCTC
A group of Berks Career & Technology Center students pose together at the Night to Shine event, wearing name badges and formal attire, volunteering in support of adults and teens with special needs.
Two Berks Career & Technology Center students sit on the floor sorting donated shoes into bags as part of a community shoe drive, surrounded by filled donation bags inside a classroom.
Berks Career & Technology Center students and staff stand behind a table displaying packaged chili meals and a “Blankets of Hope” sign during a fundraiser benefiting individuals in need.
A group of Berks Career & Technology Center students stand in front of a box truck filled with bagged shoe donations collected for a community shoe drive.
A Berks Career & Technology Center student stands smiling next to a Night to Shine guest, both wearing name badges inside an event venue decorated with lights.
Three adult volunteers smile while standing together in front of illuminated “NTS” letters at the Night to Shine event, representing community support and partnership.

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.

about 2 months ago, BCTC
Snow-covered rural road with tire tracks leading into the distance, lined by trees coated in snow and a utility pole with wires overhead. A large teal rectangle in the foreground contains white text that reads: “BCTC is on a 2-hour delay.”
🥉 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.
about 2 months ago, BCTC
Two Automotive Technology students and their instructor stand in an automotive lab, holding third-place trophies from a regional technician competition. The group is wearing matching black program shirts, with vehicle lifts and cars visible in the background.
🩺 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.
about 2 months ago, BCTC
A group of Level 3 Health Occupations students wearing navy scrubs stand together behind a nurses’ station during their clinical rotation, smiling and posing inside a healthcare facility.
A Health Occupations instructor stands with Level 3 students in navy scrubs during their clinical rotation, posing in a hallway of a healthcare facility with patient room doors and student artwork visible in the background.