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CTC Class of 2026: Ready for What’s Next

CTC Class of 2026: Ready for What’s Next
Four framed photos on a corkboard background show graduates in caps and gowns, a speaker at a podium, and groups of students holding diplomas.
Springfield-Clark Career Technology Center seniors aren’t just graduating—they’re stepping confidently into their futures. Whether heading to college, entering the workforce, enlisting in the military, or combining multiple pathways, CTC students are proving what it means to be prepared for what comes next.
 
From classrooms to careers, the Class of 2026 is living out CTC’s mission: Career Ready. College Ready. Life Ready. Here’s a look at what CTC’s graduating seniors are planning for their futures.
 

What’s Next

“We continue to see students choose multiple paths after graduation-they’re combining college, careers, and military service to build a future that gets them to where they want to be,” shared Michelle Patrick, CTC Superintendent.
  • 75–80% of seniors plan to attend college (either full-time or alongside work)
  • 59% are entering the workforce immediately
  • 20% are doing BOTH college + employment
  • 11 students plan to enlist in the military
 

Where They’re Headed

The Class of 2026 is continuing their education at a wide range of colleges and technical schools, including:
  • Clark State College (a leading choice, supported by Tech Prep Scholarships)
  • Wright State University
  • Sinclair Community College
  • University of Cincinnati
  • Ohio University
Plus specialized schools like:
  • Hobart Institute of Welding Technology
  • Columbus College of Art & Design
  • University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH)
  • Union apprenticeships
  •  

Learning Locally. Working Locally.

CTC students aren’t just preparing for college and careers elsewhere; they’re actively strengthening the local workforce. More than 50% of students are employed locally, many in high-demand fields, including:
  • Healthcare professions at Springfield Regional Medical Center and area nursing facilities, medical offices, dental offices, and other clinical settings, including veterinary offices.
  • Skilled trade industries, including HVAC companies, construction firms, electrical contractors, manufacturers, and local union employment and apprenticeship programs.
 

Powering the Local Workforce

CTC continues to expand its partnerships with local employers participating in the Work Placement program, connecting students directly with jobs in their chosen fields. This unique program provides paid, hands-on experiences for students to expand their skills and experiences, and often leads to full-time employment after graduation. 
 
This year, more than 140 students participated in work placements across a wide range of in-demand industries, including welding, nursing, automotive services, carpentry, marketing, construction, and HVAC. Students are contributing to the local workforce at organizations such as Villa of Springfield, Unibuilt, Yost Superior, the City of Springfield, Rittal, Miami Valley Child Development Centers, Miller’s Collision, Jeff Wyler, Hauck Brothers, Corrotec, and Area Electric.
 
 Beyond career readiness, the impact is economic. Collectively, these students generated just over $1.8 million in wages and local spending, directly supporting businesses and strengthening the local economy.
 
As graduation approaches, CTC seniors are leaving with certifications, industry credentials, and experience. Whether they are continuing their education, entering the workforce, or serving their country, they are equipped to succeed. Because at CTC, success isn’t one-size-fits-all - it's about being Career Ready. College Ready. Life Ready.
 
To the Class of 2026, we wish you the very best as you take this next step - your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see all that you accomplish!
A red thumbtack fastens a note with an American flag and text about students enlisting in the military to a corkboard background.
A red thumbtack secures a note with statistics about college plans for the Class of '26 to a corkboard background.
A red thumbtack fastens a note with statistics about post-graduation plans to a corkboard, with a torn blue banner at the top.
A pinned note on a corkboard lists colleges attended by the Class of '26, with university logos surrounding it.
A red thumbtack secures a note listing specialized schools and union apprenticeships to a corkboard background, with various school logos scattered around.