EDW2026: CTE Tour

Description

Building the Workforce Our Economy Needs

As part of the Chamber’s 2026 Economic Development Week, presented in partnership with Columbia County Economic Development, join school leadership, industry executives and community partners at Columbia High School for an inside look at how Career and Technical Education (CTE) is preparing students for the workforce and helping build the talent pipeline our local economy needs to grow.

Strong economic development is about more than attracting new businesses. It’s also about developing the people and skills that allow businesses already here to succeed and creating a workforce that gives future businesses confidence to invest in our community.

This exclusive tour will showcase CTE classrooms and training labs, highlight the industry-recognized skills and credentials students are earning, and explore how local businesses can play a meaningful role in connecting students to careers.

When: Monday, September 21, 2026 | 9:00–11:00 AM
Where: Columbia High School, Main Conference Room
Who: Industry executives, business leaders and community partners

The morning will include:

• Welcome remarks and an overview of Columbia High School’s CTE programs
• Guided tours of CTE classrooms and training labs
• A look at the skills, certifications and career pathways available to students
• Discussion of current and future workforce needs
• Conversation about opportunities for stronger connections between education and industry

CTE programs include: Nursing Assistant (CNA), Agriculture & Animal Science, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Journalism & Multimedia, Digital Media Technology, Welding Technology, Culinary Arts & Hospitality, Business Management & Analysis, Building Trades & Construction, and Early Childhood Education.

Ways to Get Involved: Businesses can help strengthen the local workforce pipeline through internships and work-based learning, guest speaking, mentorship, job shadowing, curriculum input and other opportunities to connect students with careers.

Economic Development Week 2026 brings together business, education, government and community leaders to explore the issues and opportunities shaping our region’s economic future. We’re kicking off the week by focusing on one of the most important factors in that future: our people.

Registration is required and space is limited.