Schriever, LA - Fletcher Technical Community College recently hosted a Skilled Trades Recruitment Showcase, connecting students in several high-demand technical programs with regional employers through hands-on demonstrations, networking opportunities, and workforce engagement activities.
Held April 20–24, the showcase featured Fletcher’s Automotive Technology, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Electrician, and Welding programs. Employers currently serving on Fletcher’s program advisory committees were invited to participate throughout the week, allowing them to engage directly with students, observe live skills demonstrations in the labs, and learn more about program curriculum and training opportunities.
Each day focused on a different program area, with approximately five employers participating daily:
- Monday - Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Tuesday - Electrician
- Wednesday - Automotive Technology
- Thursday - Welding
Following the demonstrations, employers hosted networking tables where students were able to speak one-on-one with industry representatives, discuss career opportunities, and complete job applications.
“This showcase created a valuable opportunity for students to connect directly with employers already invested in Fletcher’s programs and student success,” said Janel Ricca, Director of Job Placement at Fletcher Technical Community College. “Employers were able to see firsthand the skills students are developing in the labs while students gained networking experience and insight into current career opportunities available throughout the region.”
Several students have already been hired by local companies following connections made during the showcase, with additional students advancing through the hiring process as a result of employer engagement during the event.
Fletcher’s Program Advisory Committees play an important role in helping maintain workforce alignment across the college’s technical programs. Comprised of regional industry partners and faculty members, advisory committees meet annually to discuss workforce trends, curriculum updates, equipment needs, and evolving industry expectations.
“Our advisory committees play a critical role in helping ensure Fletcher’s programs stay aligned with the evolving needs of industry,” said Josie Clark, Associate Dean of Energy & Advanced Technologies at Fletcher Technical Community College. “Events like this allow employers to engage directly with students and faculty while helping us strengthen the connection between workforce training and regional employment opportunities.”
The Skilled Trades Recruitment Showcase further strengthened those partnerships while providing students with direct access to employers currently hiring throughout the region. Several students have already received employment offers or advanced in the hiring process as a result of connections made during the event.
Industry partners interested in participating in Fletcher advisory committees or workforce partnership opportunities can contact Josie Clark, Associate Dean of Energy & Advanced Technologies, at [email protected] or 985-448-5920.
To learn more about Fletcher’s workforce training and technical programs, visit Fletcher Technical Community College at fletcher.edu.
About Fletcher Technical Community College
Fletcher Technical Community College, a member of Louisiana Community and Technical Colleges, is a vital educational resource serving the Bayou Region. The college offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, short-term workforce training, and free adult education programs such as high school equivalency preparation, digital literacy courses, and English language instruction. Fletcher is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that strengthens Louisiana’s workforce and supports the economic growth of South Louisiana. Visit www.fletcher.edu for more information.