Snip, style, and shine – the wait is almost over!
BCTC’s Student Salon reopens on Friday, Sept. 12th!

From fresh haircuts and color to relaxing facials and polished nails, Cosmetology students are ready to give you the salon experience you deserve.

Tap the link for pricing & scheduling ➡️ berkscareer.com/page/salon
7 months ago, BCTC
A Cosmetology student carefully parts and styles a mannequin head with medium brown hair. The mannequin is secured to a chair clamp, and the student uses a purple comb.
A Cosmetology student smiles while styling a mannequin head with short, curly light brown hair using a comb.
A Cosmetology student at Berks Career & Technology Center works on styling a mannequin head with long blonde hair secured to a chair clamp. The student is wearing a black uniform and glasses.
A Cosmetology student stands behind a mannequin head with sectioned blonde hair clipped up for styling. The student smiles while wearing a black uniform with a silver apron.
A Cosmetology student in a black and white apron braids the hair of a mannequin head. The student smiles while working in the classroom salon.
A Cosmetology student in a leopard-print apron styles a mannequin head with brown hair. The hair is sectioned with pink clips for curling.
A smiling Cosmetology student braids the hair of a mannequin head in the classroom. The mannequin is tilted to the side, showing the braid in progress.
A Cosmetology student styles a mannequin head with straight brown hair. The student smiles at the camera while holding a comb.
A smiling Cosmetology student with long straight hair styles a mannequin head with voluminous red-brown curls. The student wears a dark denim apron.
🔧 In Diesel Technology, the basics aren’t basic—they’re the backbone.

This week, students are getting hands-on experience lifting the trailer portion of a tractor trailer truck. Safety protocols? Check. Confidence? Growing. Future? Driven.
7 months ago, BCTC
Two individuals lie on their backs beneath a vehicle elevated on red jack stands in a garage. They are working near the rear axle and differential, with a hydraulic floor jack positioned centrally. The concrete floor and surrounding tools suggest a workshop environment.
Two individuals are performing maintenance beneath a large vehicle, possibly a truck or trailer, using a red hydraulic floor jack to lift the rear. They are working on the concrete floor of an indoor garage, surrounded by tools, indicating a hands-on automotive repair setting.
Two individuals are working beneath a truck supported by red jack stands and a hydraulic floor jack. The image captures the underside of the vehicle, emphasizing mechanical maintenance or inspection in progress.
In an automotive workshop, a group of individuals are engaged in vehicle maintenance. One person operates a red hydraulic jack to lift the rear of a large vehicle, while another lies on the ground, possibly guiding the jack. Tools, equipment, and another vehicle are visible in the background, highlighting a collaborative repair environment.
Four individuals are engaged in automotive repair in a workshop. One person operates a red hydraulic jack to lift part of a vehicle chassis, while another crouches nearby, possibly instructing or discussing the task. Tools, equipment, and vehicles are visible in the background, highlighting a collaborative, hands-on learning environment.
⚙️ Control the motor. Control the motion.

In Mechatronics Engineering Technology, students are learning how to wire circuits that direct motors to start, stop, reverse, and jog using tools and techniques found in modern industry.
7 months ago, BCTC
A group of students in a technical workshop are working on electrical wiring projects. In the foreground, a student with curly hair and glasses smiles at the camera while handling red and green wires connected to electrical components on a metal frame. Other students are visible in the background, also engaged in wiring tasks. The workshop features industrial lighting, equipment, and warning signs indicating electrical hazards.
A person with curly hair and glasses is working on a large electrical panel filled with numerous red and green wires. The person is smiling at the camera while holding a wire. In the background, two other individuals are also working on similar panels. The setting appears to be an industrial or educational facility with various equipment and tools visible.
A person with curly hair and glasses is working on a large electrical panel filled with numerous red and green wires. The person is smiling at the camera while holding a wire. In the background, two other individuals are also working on similar panels. The setting appears to be an industrial or educational facility with various technical equipment visible.
They’re back—and sharper than ever!

Precision Machining Technology students are in the shop and picking up right where they left off. Lathes, mills, and minds in motion!
7 months ago, BCTC
An individual wearing safety glasses and a black polo shirt with a logo stands beside a large industrial machine labeled "KURT" in a workshop. The background includes additional machinery and equipment, emphasizing a manufacturing environment and adherence to safety protocols.
A person wearing a black t-shirt, safety glasses, and a brown cap operates a lathe machine in a workshop. The lathe has a transparent protective cover and visible control knobs. The background includes additional industrial equipment, emphasizing a safe and professional technical environment.
A person wearing safety glasses and a black t-shirt with the words "Kurt" and "Engineering" operates a milling machine in a workshop. The machine features a vise labeled "KURT" and various control components. Additional industrial equipment is visible in the background, highlighting a hands-on engineering or manufacturing environment.
A person wearing safety glasses and a black polo shirt with the "CNC Machining" logo stands beside a large industrial milling machine in a brightly lit workshop. The machine features a blue vise labeled "Kurt" on its table, with additional equipment visible in the background.
A person wearing safety glasses operates a milling machine equipped with a "KURT" vise in a workshop or manufacturing lab. Other individuals are visible working in the background, suggesting an educational or professional setting focused on machining or manufacturing skills.
A person wearing safety glasses operates a lathe machine in a workshop, machining a cylindrical object. The workspace contains various tools and equipment, emphasizing hands-on technical work and adherence to industrial safety practices.
From classroom to construction site! 🚧

This summer, Brody, a Heavy Equipment Operations student, took his training to the next level through a co-op with Berg Construction. He tackled everything from trench work to GPS technology and even played a role in preparing a PGA Championship golf course parking lot.

👉 Read his full story here: berkscareer.com/article/2382568
7 months ago, BCTC
A person wearing a green hard hat and a bright yellow-green safety shirt stands on the track of an orange CASE 650M WT bulldozer. The person has one hand in their pocket and is smiling. In the background, there is another yellow bulldozer, several parked cars, and a building with a brick facade. The sky is blue with scattered clouds.
Building, Racing, and Creating Together! Drafting Design Technology students kicked off the year with a fun, hands-on challenge! Using only paper, tape, and scissors, they designed bridges strong enough to hold cars, books, and even cell phones.

Next came the Paper Car Challenge 🚗 where students designed, built, and raced their creations down a two-foot ramp to see whose car came out on top.

Teamwork, creativity, and innovation are driving their success. This is only the beginning of an exciting year ahead!
7 months ago, BCTC
Three individuals collaborate at a table in a classroom or lab setting, working with small white sticks, a ruler, and other tools. One person stands while two are seated, focused on the task. The background includes office equipment like printers and computers, and windows reveal another room with additional people engaged in work, emphasizing a hands-on, team-oriented environment.
In a room with grey carpet and light-colored walls, one individual kneels on the floor adjusting two small wheeled robots on a large sheet of paper marked with a track and the word "FINISH." Three others stand nearby observing. A large printer labeled "ARKANSAS EC" is visible in the background, suggesting a robotics-focused educational or project-based activity.
Three individuals sit on the floor in a collaborative workspace, surrounded by desks and chairs. They are engaged in a hands-on project using white paper or cardboard, scissors, and tape. A nearby desk holds a laptop, notebook, and water bottle, indicating an active and creative work session in a classroom or office setting.
Three individuals in matching dark blue shirts work together in a classroom or lab setting. They are focused on a small structure made of white pipes and a yellow toy car, possibly part of a hands-on experiment or project. The room features computer workstations, monitors, and a whiteboard with partially visible writing, suggesting an educational or training environment.
n a room with gray carpet and light-colored walls, one individual kneels beside a large sheet of paper marked with a track and the word "FINISH." Small objects resembling miniature vehicles or robots are placed on the track. Other individuals stand nearby, observing the setup. The environment suggests a robotics or engineering activity in an educational or project-based setting.
Several individuals stand and interact around computer desks in a classroom equipped with desktop computers. A white model structure, possibly related to engineering or architecture, is placed on one of the desks. The walls feature posters and images, suggesting an educational setting focused on collaborative learning and project-based activities.
A small-scale race track is set up on a carpeted floor, featuring five miniature cars made from lightweight materials. The track includes marked lanes and the word "HSINI" printed at one end, suggesting a school project or competition focused on engineering, design, or creativity.
Two individuals sit at a desk in a classroom or lab setting, collaborating on a project. The desk contains papers, a hammer, pens, and a computer monitor displaying a platform with multiple video or image thumbnails. One person holds an object while the other observes, indicating active engagement in a hands-on learning or problem-solving activity.
Five individuals gather around a printed mat on the floor in a room, engaging in an activity with a small robotic car. One person crouches near the mat, which features various markings and the word "FINISH," possibly adjusting the robot. A large printer labeled "ARCHITECT" is visible in the background, indicating a robotics-focused educational or experimental setting.
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
8 months 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!
8 months 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!
8 months 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
8 months 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.
8 months 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

8 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
8 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!
8 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.
9 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.
9 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!
9 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!
9 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!
9 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
9 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.