A year-long mentorship program for approximately 80 students has opened doors to unlimited possibilities with local industry partners.
The Future 42 Mentor Program began in 2022 between the Carroll County Area Technology Center and Kentucky Utilities. Twenty students participated in the soft launch of the program.
This year it has expanded to 80 young adults paired with mentors at Dow, Kentucky Utilities, North American Stainless and NUCOR. Students from Carroll County High School, Carroll County ATC, iLEAD, Gallatin County, Henry County, Owen County and Trimble County all participated. Students went through an application process and were paired with a mentor based on their interest, major and career choice. They met monthly with their mentor.
“This was done in an effort to be more intentional, build relationships and provide students with exposure to Future 42 careers,” said Heather Yocum, JCTC Carrollton Campus Site Director. Yocum, along with Chad Rose from the Carroll County ATC and Jenna Gray from iLEAD have orchestrated the program.
“Sometimes we’re not aware of all the opportunities in our own backyard,” Yocum said. “This year-long mentor program has been a success and we look forward to welcoming our next group this coming school year.”
Eli Rice, an Owen County student who attends iLEAD, spoke briefly to the group during the banquet. Rice is studying welding at JCTC. “This program has shown me I can stay close and have a good career without much debt,” he said.
The industry leaders encouraged all the Future 42 participants to stand on their own merits and use what they have learned from their mentors to become successful.
“Some of you will be the next leaders of these plants,” said Chad Rose, guidance counselor at the Carroll County ATC. “You have momentum. Carry that momentum and all that has been given to you so you can be successful.
