On Tuesday, April 29th, Buckeye Hills Career Center (BHCC) proudly hosted its annual Career-Technical Signing Day, honoring high school seniors who have already committed to their career fields by joining Ohio’s workforce. The ceremony highlighted the dedication of these students and their readiness to contribute to numerous industries across the region.
Superintendent Jamie Nash welcomed attendees, setting the stage for a day of celebration and recognition. Among the distinguished guests were Jason Stephens, State Representative for the 93rd District, Ohio House of Representatives, as well as Bonnie Ward, Southeast Regional Liaison for Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s office. Representative Stephens delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the exciting opportunities awaiting these young professionals.
A highlight of the event was a surprise presentation by Representative Stephens to Chase Brannen, a senior Cybersecurity student, recognizing his remarkable accomplishment of earning 109 industry-recognized credential points—nine times the amount required to graduate from a career-technical program in Ohio.
The ceremony also brought together numerous industry partners, demonstrating their support and commitment to these emerging professionals. Employers from across the region, including Affordable Air Heating & Cooling, Austin Powder Company, Brian Dulaney Excavating, Buckeye Forest at Jackson, City of Jackson, City of Wellston, Cohesion Hair Salon, Family EyeCare, Fantastic Sams, Foster Sales, Gallia County Sheriff’s Office, Geiger Brothers, Heidi’s Hair Salon, Holzer Senior Care, J-Lar Fab Worx, Jackson County ODOT, Local 577 Plumbers & Pipefitters, Neil & Co. Hair Studio, Southern Cabinetry, Steppahead Construction Services, Triple B Investments, Willis Advantage Property Solutions, Ohio Army National Guard, and the Marines were in attendance to welcome the students into their respective fields.
Justy Burleson, BHCC’s Job Placement Coordinator and Apprenticeship Instructor, delivered closing remarks, expressing gratitude to both students and industry partners.
At the time of the ceremony, an impressive 58% of seniors in the class of 2025 had already secured job placements through the student placement program. Currently, 139 Buckeye Hills students are employed across various sectors, including healthcare, cosmetology, and construction. The center also proudly employs five student interns that work in various departments on campus including IT, food service, and as administrative professionals.
The event was a testament to the strength of career-technical education and the invaluable partnerships between Buckeye Hills Career Center and the local workforce.
“The Award-Winning Buckeye Hills Career Center is pivotal in uniting education with employment, inspiring our students to achieve their professional aspirations, and driving economic growth,” Superintendent Jamie Nash shared. “Our career center is a beacon for individuals that want to develop valuable skills to enter the workforce. Through our job placement programs, we offer support and guidance in the job search journey. BHCC provides access to industry-specific training, resume assistance, interview preparation, and empowers students to elevate their skills and enhance their confidence. We also forge connections with a network of local employers, creating pathways to valuable job opportunities.”
Congratulations to all participating students, and a heartfelt thank you to our industry partners for providing opportunities that allow these students to make an impact in our region. We extend our gratitude to Representative Stephens and Governor DeWine’s office for their continued support of career tech education.
View or download photos from the ceremony here.