In a time when many high school students spend their days preparing for college, a growing number are taking a different path—one that leads directly into in-demand, high-paying careers. The students at Pickens County Career and Technology Center (CTC) are proving that skilled trades aren’t just an alternative to higher education—they’re a vital part of a strong economy and a thriving community.
Recently, these students took their learning beyond the classroom and onto the job site with Pickens County Habitat for Humanity, where they played a hands-on role in building a home for a local family. Their work wasn’t just about hauling block or laying concrete; it was about gaining real-world experience, developing essential skills, and making a lasting impact on their community.
The Value of Trades Education
For decades, the U.S. has pushed a “college-for-all” mindset, leaving vocational training underfunded and undervalued. But now, industries are feeling the effects. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, 88% of construction firms are struggling to find skilled workers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the construction industry will need to fill over 723,000 jobs annually over the next decade to keep up with demand.
Meanwhile, college debt is at an all-time high, with the average graduate owing over $37,000. Trades careers, on the other hand, offer stable jobs, competitive wages, and the ability to enter the workforce without massive student loans. For example:
- Electricians earn a median salary of $60,240 per year (BLS, 2022).
- HVAC technicians make an average of $51,390 annually (BLS, 2022).
- Skilled construction workers in South Carolina can make anywhere from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, often with little to no debt.
The students at Pickens County CTC are preparing for these careers now, gaining hands-on experience that will make them valuable assets in the workforce as soon as they graduate.
Why Partnerships Like This Matter
While classroom learning is important, nothing compares to the experience of working on a real construction site. That’s why partnerships between career and technical education programs and organizations like Habitat for Humanity are so valuable. They bridge the gap between education and industry, providing students with:
- Real-World Experience – Instead of just learning theories, students get to see how construction projects come together from start to finish.
- Professional Mentorship – Working alongside industry experts, including inspectors and contractors, helps students understand the standards and expectations of the field.
- Community Impact – Knowing their work is helping a local family makes the experience more meaningful and reinforces the importance of their skills.
When Pickens County Inspector Brian Scrugs arrived on-site to check the foundation, he didn’t just complete his inspection and leave. Instead, he turned it into a lesson, explaining to students what he was looking for and why it mattered. For these young tradespeople, it was a chance to learn from someone who works in the industry every day, offering insight they wouldn’t get from a textbook.
A Win-Win for Students and the Community
This type of hands-on learning benefits everyone. For students, it provides valuable training and a competitive edge when entering the job market. For local families, it means quality, affordable housing built by people who truly care.
Programs like the one at Pickens County CTC are proving that skilled trades education is more than just an alternative—it’s a pathway to success. These students are gaining the skills, experience, and confidence they need to build strong careers while also giving back to their community.
As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, partnerships like this will become even more essential. They not only help fill critical workforce gaps but also create opportunities for young people to thrive—without the burden of student debt.
By investing in trades education and supporting partnerships between schools and community organizations, we’re not just building houses. We’re building futures. At Pickens County Habitat for Humanity, we’re proud to work alongside these students, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.
