Blooming Beyond the Classroom 🌱

Jacob, a 10th-grade Horticulture student, is cultivating more than just plants—he’s growing his future.

This summer, Jacob completed his third year volunteering at Hershey Gardens through the Volunteen program. From mulching and trimming rose bushes to helping with unique research projects (yes—even hissing Madagascar cockroaches!), Jacob poured his passion into every task.

🔗 Read Jacob’s full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2378093
about 1 month ago, BCTC
A person stands outdoors in front of a wooden gazebo, wearing a short-sleeved, light blue and white striped button-up shirt. They have curly hair. To the left, blooming pink flowers and green foliage are visible. In the background, buildings and vehicles appear under a clear blue sky.
✨ Our favorite day of the year is finally here — the first day of school!

Welcome to our new students joining us for the first time and welcome back to all our returning students. We can’t wait to see the skills you’ll master, the projects you’ll tackle, and the successes you’ll achieve this school year.

Here’s to an amazing 2025–2026!
about 1 month ago, BCTC
hree individuals wearing protective gowns, gloves, and face masks stand in a laboratory setting behind a counter. The counter holds various laboratory equipment, including blue molds, a vacuum pump with tubing, and two bowls.
A person with a blurred face is operating a Haas CNC machine in an industrial setting. The person is wearing a dark shirt and jeans, and is focused on the control panel of the machine. The background shows various parts of the CNC machine and fluorescent lights hanging from the ceiling.
A group of people sit in a circle on a colorful rug inside a classroom. The room features large windows, an American flag, and colorful triangular banners hanging from the ceiling.
A person wearing a black "Harley-Davidson" t-shirt and jeans stands next to a mannequin head with curly hair on a counter in a classroom or training room, possibly for cosmetology. Chairs, desks, and other people are visible in the background.
Three individuals stand close together in a hallway, each holding a yellow piece of paper. Their faces are blurred for privacy. The person on the left wears a black shirt and gray shorts, the middle person wears a black shirt and red patterned shorts, and the person on the right wears a white shirt with a deer head design and black shorts. The hallway features banners hanging from the ceiling and doors along both sides.
A person is washing a rectangular glass container in a large stainless steel sink filled with soapy water. The person is wearing a white t-shirt. The background features tiled walls, an electrical panel, and various kitchen utensils hanging on the wall.
Five individuals are in a salon or cosmetology classroom. Four are standing, and one is seated in a salon chair. All are wearing black outfits, with some in aprons. The background includes salon equipment such as chairs and cabinets.
A person wearing a white "Kutztown Football" t-shirt and blue jeans is working with electrical equipment outdoors. They are holding a tool and appear to be adjusting or installing a component on an electrical pole. In the background, a yellow car is parked on the grass near trees and a brick building.
hree individuals stand in a hallway. The person on the left wears a black t-shirt and blue jeans, the middle person wears a black t-shirt with red text and graphics, and the person on the right wears a blue "Berks Career & Technology Center" t-shirt with khaki pants, holding papers and food.
A person sits at a table in a classroom or office setting, wearing a dark-colored polo shirt with "The Center School" and the number "13" on it. Their face is blurred for privacy. On the table are a black travel mug, snacks, and other small items. The background features colorful posters, decorations, lockers, and classroom materials.
📣 The countdown is on… the 2025–2026 school year starts Monday!

We're kicking things off by giving a warm welcome to the newest members of the BCTC family! From instructors to support staff, we’re excited to have them on board as we launch into another year of hands-on learning and career-focused education.

Let’s make this year one to remember!
about 1 month ago, BCTC
A person is shown wearing a blue patterned shirt with a lanyard around their neck and a pen in the shirt pocket. The background appears to be an indoor setting with blurred elements. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "MATTHEW BROWN CABINETRY & WOOD TECHNOLOGY INSTRUCTOR."
A person is shown wearing a blue polo shirt with the logo and text "Berks Career & Technology Center." They also have a lanyard with badges around their neck. The background includes a whiteboard and part of a window. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "DEION BURK CUSTODIAN."
A person with a blurred face stands against a light-colored brick wall, wearing a blue polo shirt. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "KEVIN CONRAD PROTECTIVE SERVICES LAW ENFORCEMENT INSTRUCTOR."
A person with a blurred face stands against a light-colored brick wall. They are wearing glasses, a white shirt with a ruffled collar, and a light-colored jacket. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "ASHLEY KEPPLEY NURSING & ATTENDANCE SERVICES SPECIALIST."
A person with long hair is shown wearing a gray shirt and jacket, standing in an indoor setting that resembles a classroom or office. Their face is blurred for privacy. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "HEATHER LIVINGHOUSE INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT."
A person with a blurred face is shown wearing glasses and a lanyard. The background is plain. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "JENNIFER NEIMAN ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL."
A person with a blurred face stands in what appears to be a classroom or lecture hall. They are wearing a blue and white plaid shirt. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "JUSTIN ROWLANDS AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY INSTRUCTOR."
A person with long, wavy hair is shown wearing a maroon t-shirt with floral designs. At the bottom of the image, text reads: "HOLLY SINGLEY HEALTH OCCUPATIONS INSTRUCTOR."
A person with a blurred face is shown from the shoulders up, wearing a blue button-up shirt with two front pockets. The person has a lanyard around their neck and a pen in the left pocket. The background consists of blurred geometric shapes in muted colors. At the bottom of the image, there is a teal banner with white text that reads "ASHER ZETTLEMOYER WELDING TECHNOLOGY INSTRUCTOR."
Paid career experience while still in high school? That’s what sets BCTC apart.

This year, over 200 students took part in our Cooperative Education (Co-op) program, earning competitive wages while gaining real-world skills that prepare them for long-term success.

Read more about how co-op opens doors to career success: berkscareer.com/article/2366839
about 1 month ago, BCTC
A red Toyota SUV is displayed at an indoor auto show. The vehicle has two bicycles mounted on the roof rack. A person in a white hoodie and gray pants stands in front of the car with hands in pockets. In the background, there is a red Toyota display booth with a large screen showing images and another person sitting on a chair.
Two individuals stand in a workshop or factory setting. One wears a blue t-shirt, jeans, and a cap; the other wears a denim apron over dark clothing. They are positioned on a black rubber mat in front of industrial machinery, including CNC machines and various tools and components.
Six individuals stand in two rows against a plain wall, all wearing green medical scrubs and white shoes.
A person wearing a green hard hat labeled "BERG" and an orange safety vest stands at a construction site. The background features a black truck, a red Jeep, buildings, and trees.
New year, new opportunities—same commitment to hands-on training.

Just in time for the start of school, two freshly installed utility poles are ready for our Level 3 Electrical Occupations students to begin linemen safety and climbing practice.

Special thanks to the Borough of Kutztown for helping us make it happen. Even better? The crew on site included BCTC alumni now working in the field!

It’s always a win when our graduates return to support the next generation.
about 1 month ago, BCTC
A white utility truck with a crane is parked on an asphalt surface. The crane is extended and being used to install or repair a wooden utility pole. Three workers in high-visibility clothing are standing near the base of the pole, which is situated on a grassy area next to a brick building. Orange traffic cones are placed around the work area for safety.
wo workers are installing a utility pole in a grassy area near a brick building. One worker wears a yellow safety vest and helmet, while the other wears casual work clothes. They stand on a red tarp surrounded by dirt at the base of the pole. A crane arm on the left assists with lifting and positioning. Several utility poles and related equipment are visible in the background under an overcast sky.
Three construction workers wearing helmets and high-visibility shirts are using shovels to move dirt onto a red tarp on a grassy area. They are working around a utility pole. In the background, a parking lot with yellow bollards and a brick building is visible.
You’ve Come a Long Way. Let’s Celebrate That.

From the classroom to your career, you’ve made your mark—and we want to recognize it.

Join the BCTC Alumni Association and help us spotlight stories like yours, create connections, and support students just starting out.

📍Start here: berkscareer.com/o/bctc/page/alumni

about 2 months ago, BCTC
A person wearing a dark hoodie with an "Essig" logo and a beanie is crouching next to an outdoor air conditioning unit. The unit has several hoses and gauges attached. In the foreground, a green banner with white text reads: "BCTC Alumni Association. Stay connected. Give back. Inspire others." The background features the beige siding of a house.
Now Enrolling: PLC Programming & Robotics 🤖

Ready to level up your skills in industrial automation? Adult Continuing Education at BCTC is now enrolling for our PLC Programming & Robotics course! This hands-on class covers everything from ladder logic and digital logic to robotic motion programming. You’ll explore PLC systems, inputs and outputs, timers, counters, and gain experience using a teach pendant to control robotic systems.

Classes start September 8th and run from 6–8 PM. Don’t miss your chance to get practical training in one of today’s fastest-growing fields.

👉 Learn More: berkscareer.com/o/ace/page/industrial-maintenance-technician
about 2 months ago, BCTC
Promotional banner for a course on PLC Programming & Robotics. Left side features large green and white text reading 'NOW ENROLLING' and smaller white text on a blue background stating 'PLC PROGRAMMING & ROBOTICS.' Right side shows a person in a black shirt working with colored wires and electronic equipment in an industrial environment.
Join us in celebrating Katelyn Nichols, BCTC’s 2024–2025 recipient of the Berks County Schools Facilities Directors Scholarship!

Katelyn, a standout student in our Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, exemplifies the spirit of this award with her academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to community. She’ll be continuing her journey at Shippensburg University, where she’ll pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering.

The Berks County Schools Facilities Managers (BCSFM) group is dedicated to supporting students entering the building and facilities trades. This scholarship recognizes future leaders like Katelyn and invests in the bright futures they’re building.

👏 Congratulations, Katelyn — we can’t wait to see all you accomplish!
2 months ago, BCTC
Person working with wires at a desk in a classroom or lab, with others and banners in the background.
Recognizing 15 Years of Service and Dedication! 🎉

Kim DeHart has retired after 15 years of dedicated service as our Director of Adult Continuing Education. Throughout her time at BCTC, Kim’s commitment to supporting adult learners and expanding educational opportunities has been truly appreciated by all.

Kim, thank you for your hard work, your care for the community, and your efforts to make education accessible to so many. We wish you all the best in this next chapter of your life.
2 months ago, BCTC
Thank you message for Kim DeHart, Director of Adult & Continuing Education, recognizing 15 years of service. The background shows a building with large windows and a covered entrance. A circular inset on the left displays a blurred portrait of Kim DeHart. Text reads: 'Thank You Kim DeHart Director of Adult & Continuing Education 15 years of Service.
🎉 A Tribute to 18 Years of Craftsmanship and Teaching!

We’re excited to recognize Jerry Galczynski, who has retired after 18 years as our Cabinetry & Wood Technology Instructor. Jerry’s dedication to the craft and his ability to inspire students to push the boundaries of their skills have left a lasting mark on BCTC.

Jerry, thank you for your years of service, your passion for woodworking, and your unwavering commitment to helping students grow. Your legacy of excellence in craftsmanship and instruction will continue to resonate for years to come.
2 months ago, BCTC
A man in a blue polo shirt and jeans stands in a workshop with tools and equipment in the background. To the right, text reads: 'Thank You Jerry Galczynski, Cabinetry & Wood Technology Instructor, 18 Years of Service.' Behind the text is an exterior view of a building with large windows and columns.
A Legacy of Leadership: 22 Years with Chief Heckman! 🎉

It’s with great respect that we celebrate Chief Todd Heckman, who has retired after 22 years of dedicated service as the instructor for our Protective Services Law Enforcement program. Todd’s leadership, knowledge, and passion for law enforcement education have made a lasting impact on BCTC and countless students aspiring to serve in the field of public safety.

Todd, thank you for your unwavering commitment to shaping future law enforcement professionals. Your legacy of excellence will continue to inspire and guide all those who have had the privilege to learn from you. We wish you all the best as you step into this exciting new chapter of your life!
2 months ago, BCTC
A man stands in front of a wall covered with various law enforcement patches. He is wearing a black polo shirt with an embroidered badge on the left side. To the right, text reads: "Thank You Chief Todd Heckman, Protective Services Law Enforcement Instructor, 22 years of Service.
Celebrating 23 Years of Service! 🎉 We are proud to honor Brian Arndt, who has retired after 23 years of dedicated service as the head of our print shop and an Instructional Assistant at BCTC. Brian’s expertise, hard work, and commitment have played a key role in the success of our print shop and the hands-on learning experience for countless students over the years.

Brian, thank you for your many years of dedication and service. Your contributions have had a lasting impact on BCTC, and your presence will be greatly missed. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement!
2 months ago, BCTC
A man holds and examines a large printed sheet containing multiple images and text. In the background, an exterior view of a building is visible. Overlaid text reads: 'Thank You Brian Arndt Print Shop & Instructional Assistant 23 Years of Service.' The image expresses appreciation for Brian Arndt's 23 years of service.
Honoring 26 Years of Dedication! 🎉 We are excited to celebrate Ted Kline, who has retired after 26 years of dedicated service as a custodian at our West Campus. Ted has been an essential part of the BCTC community, always ensuring our campus remains clean and inviting for everyone. His hard work and commitment have left a lasting impression on all who have had the privilege of working alongside him.

Ted, thank you for your unwavering dedication. Your contributions will always be remembered, and we wish you nothing but happiness in your retirement!
3 months ago, BCTC
Two men stand side by side. The man on the left wears a brown jacket over a blue shirt and jeans; the man on the right wears a gray polo shirt and dark pants. They are indoors, with windows and ceiling lights visible. To the right, text reads: 'Thank You Ted Kline West Campus Custodian 26 years of Service' in black and white fonts. The background also includes an outdoor scene with a building entrance featuring large windows and columns.
We’re excited to share that BCTC's Precision/Computerized Machining Technology program has received a $16,000 Gene Haas Foundation/Tooling Award! This grant will provide new tools and materials to enhance student learning and prepare them for careers in the machining industry. 🛠️

Thank you to the Gene Haas Foundation for supporting the next generation of skilled professionals!

Read the full story: berkscareer.com/article/2303414
3 months ago, BCTC
Four individuals stand in front of a large industrial machine, holding an oversized check. The check is from the Gene Haas Foundation, dated May 19, 2023, and made out to Berks Career & Tech Center for $16,000.00 as a scholarship grant.
Summer in Scrubs! Congratulations to our rising Level 3 Health Occupations students: Jalexis, Madison, Fuad, Emma, Chloe, Aydeline, and Mya (not pictured). They just wrapped up their training week at St. Luke's Health Network!

This summer, they’ll be exploring careers in healthcare through Co-op, gaining real-world experience and getting a head start on their senior year.

We can’t wait to see all they accomplish!
3 months ago, BCTC
A group of six individuals wearing green medical scrubs stands in a line against a beige wall. Each person has an identification badge clipped to their scrub top. The individuals have their faces blurred for privacy. They are standing close together with some having their arms around each other’s shoulders. The floor is carpeted, and there is a wooden baseboard along the bottom of the wall.
Start Your Engines! 🏁 Racing season is off to a fast start, and several BCTC students and staff are burning rubber on tracks across the region. From go-karts and slingshots to dirt modifieds and dragsters, these drivers are balancing high-speed thrills with serious technical skill.

Whether they are studying Heavy Equipment, Machining, Electrical, or Masonry, they all share one thing in common: a passion for racing that started early and keeps growing stronger.

Check out how they are putting their education into motion, both in the shop and on the track. ➡️ berkscareer.com/article/2294686
3 months ago, BCTC
A race car driver is seated inside a race car, wearing a black helmet with a reflective visor and a black racing suit. The driver is secured with multiple safety harnesses labeled 'Simpson' and 'Impact Racing.' The interior of the car shows various metal components and parts of the roll cage. The image captures the driver from the side, focusing on the upper body and helmet.
A person in a blue racing suit and helmet is seated in a blue go-kart on an asphalt track. The go-kart features various sponsor logos and the number 4 on the front. The track is marked with white lines and bordered by red-and-white barriers. Grass is visible on the left side of the image.
As our SkillsUSA National competitors waited for the final results, they made the most of their time in Atlanta — exploring the city, bonding with teammates, and celebrating all they’ve accomplished. And now… the results are in! Join us in congratulating: 🥈 Owen, from Daniel Boone – 2nd Place in Masonry 🥉 Ryan, from Oley – 3rd Place in Automotive Technology We are incredibly proud of ALL our students who competed and represented BCTC with passion, professionalism, and pride.
3 months ago, BCTC
Five individuals pose in front of a large digital sign that reads 'SkillsUSA CHAMPIONS FESTIVAL' with two white arrows pointing upward. Four people are standing and holding a fifth person horizontally across them. Behind them are glass doors and windows reflecting the outdoor surroundings.
A person wearing an orange shirt and a cap labeled 'BEAUTY BLOCK' is inside a transparent cylindrical enclosure at a zoo or aquarium exhibit. Two penguins stand on rocks to the left of the person. The background features rocky terrain and another similar enclosure with a partially visible person inside.
An indoor arena, identified as State Farm Arena, is filled with a large seated audience facing a central stage. A large screen displays the phrase 'IGNITE YOUR POTENTIAL' in bold letters against an orange and red background. Smaller screens around the arena show similar visuals. The lighting is primarily purple and blue, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
A person wearing a red blazer with a patch on the left side holds a medal in their right hand and an open box containing another medal in their left hand. They are also wearing a white 'SkillsUSA' lanyard around their neck with an additional medal attached. The background is dark with light streaks visible.
A person wearing a red blazer with a SkillsUSA patch, a white shirt, and a black tie holds an open box containing a medal or award in their left hand. A second medal hangs from a white 'SkillsUSA' lanyard around their neck. The background consists of dark, possibly black, curtains.
Two individuals stand side by side indoors, possibly in a convention center. Both are wearing red blazers with badges on the left chest. The person on the left has a name badge that reads 'SkillsUSA' and 'Advisor'.
Our SkillsUSA National competitors have been giving it their all in Atlanta, pushing through intense challenges, showcasing their skills, and proudly representing BCTC on the national stage. And in true champion fashion, they've also found time to unwind, explore the city, and make lasting memories with students from across the country. With competitions now wrapped up, the waiting game begins... 🕒 Who will bring home the medals? 🏅 Join us in cheering them on during the Awards Ceremony, streaming LIVE tomorrow at 4PM at 👉 https://www.nlsc.skillsusa.org/
3 months ago, BCTC
A group of individuals wearing red blazers with badges and name tags stand on a curved staircase inside a modern building. The staircase has glass railings, and the interior features contemporary design elements. The group appears to be part of an organization or attending an event.
Four individuals stand on a sidewalk in front of Morton's The Steakhouse.
Two individuals wearing white shirts, black pants, and name tags stand indoors in front of a curved glass block wall. Large potted plants are positioned on either side of them, and the floor is made of a shiny, speckled material.
Several people are seated at tables with laptops in a conference or event setting. The background features partition curtains and additional tables.
A person kneels on the ground holding a yellow level tool vertically, surrounded by construction materials such as cinder blocks and red bricks. Other individuals are in the background, observing or participating in what appears to be a masonry or construction demonstration.
Two men work with a piece of industrial machinery in an exhibition hall. One man is bending over the machine, possibly making adjustments, while the other stands nearby writing or inspecting. The machine has a red base with knobs and buttons, and tools including a spray can and cloth are on the floor. Directional signs to exhibit halls are visible in the background.
A person sits at a table with a laptop, surrounded by items including water bottles, a red drink bottle, a yellow dessert in a cup with a spoon, and papers or packets. Other individuals are visible in the background, also working at tables with laptops in an indoor event or workspace setting.
Several individuals in uniforms work in a workshop or industrial setting, engaged in woodworking activities using tools like saws and workbenches. A partially visible sign is in the background.
Isabella and Miguel—now proud graduates of BCTC’s Sports Medicine & Rehabilitative Therapy program—represented our school at the 2025 HOSA International Leadership Conference, held in Nashville, TN! 🌎 The event brought together over 12,500 future health professionals for a week of competition, education, and leadership. Isabella competed in Sports Medicine and Miguel in Occupational Therapy—an incredible accomplishment on an international stage! In addition to their competitions, both students took part in professional workshops, explored healthcare career pathways, and connected with peers and professionals from around the world. We're so proud of their dedication, professionalism, and passion for healthcare. 💙
3 months ago, BCTC
Four people inside an airplane. Two are seated in front, one wearing a brown shirt and the other a light blue shirt. Two others with long hair are standing behind them, leaning forward to join the photo. The airplane interior, including seats and overhead compartments, is visible.
This image features four individuals standing in front of a backdrop that prominently displays the text "hosa future health professionals" and "hosa.org". In front of them are large 3D letters spelling out "hosa", indicating that the photo was taken at a HOSA event, which is associated with students interested in health professions.
This image shows two individuals seated on a bus, both wearing straw hats. One is dressed in a white tank top and glasses, while the other is wearing a blue shirt that says "SPORT MEDICINE" with a medical symbol, and a white jacket. The setting appears casual, likely during a trip or outing, with the bus interior visible in the background.
This image shows a group of people seated in rows, dressed in suits and wearing straw hats. Many are holding glowing sticks, and several have lanyards around their necks—suggesting they are attending a formal indoor event or conference, possibly with a celebratory or themed component.
BCTC has officially touched down in ATL! 🎉 Our SkillsUSA champions have arrived in Atlanta, Georgia for the 2025 National Leadership & Skills Conference! Representing Berks County and Pennsylvania with pride, these students are ready to compete, connect, and show the nation what career and technical education is all about. Stay tuned as we cheer them on throughout the week! 📣
3 months ago, BCTC
Five people walk on a paved pathway with red and beige tiles, carrying backpacks and heading toward a building in the distance. The area is surrounded by green trees, lamp posts, and benches.
Four individuals stand side by side in front of a blue background. They are all wearing red blazers with a patch on the left chest, white shirts, black ties, and black pants. Each person has a name badge and lanyard around their neck. The floor is covered with a patterned carpet.
A colorful backdrop designed to resemble a red van with various stickers and decorations. The top of the backdrop reads 'NLSC OR BUST.' There are cutouts in the van's windows for people to place their faces. Stickers on the van include phrases such as 'Good Vibes,' 'SkillsUSA,' 'Live, Play, SkillsUSA!,' 'SKILLS MOBILE,' 'PEACE,' and a name tag that says, 'HELLO I'M GOING TO THE NLSC OR BUST.
A person stands in front of a large sculpture of the Olympic rings, which are colored blue, yellow, black, green, and red. The sculpture is located in an outdoor plaza with trees and buildings visible in the background. Several people can be seen walking around the plaza. The person is wearing a light blue shirt and dark pants with a lanyard around their neck.
A person stands in front of a large sculpture of the Olympic rings, which are colored blue, yellow, black, green, and red. The person is dressed formally in a white shirt and black pants, holding a red jacket. Trees and buildings are visible in the background, with several other people walking around the area.
A person stands in front of a large sculpture of the Olympic rings, which are colored blue, yellow, black, green, and red. The background includes trees, buildings, and several other people walking in the area.
Two individuals stand side by side, both wearing lanyards with identification badges. The person on the left wears a black shirt with 'N' and 'Hyundai' logos, and the person on the right wears a gray shirt with a yellow logo.