BROWNSVILLE, Texas — Dozens of middle school students from school districts across the Rio Grande Valley explored a variety of career pathways offered through 51’s (TSC) Workforce Training and Continuing Education (WTCE) division during the Summer Exploration Camp, held June 1–4 at the ITEC Center.
Through interactive, hands-on activities, students gained valuable insight into different career fields and educational opportunities available through WTCE programs.
Instructors from the Diesel Technician, Welding, Auto Body Repair Technology and Basic Peace Officer programs guided students through workshops designed to introduce them to each field and the careers available within those industries.
“The camp connects them to the instructors we have here who are industry-ready and qualified,” said WTCE Executive Director Juan Leal. “We expose them to different equipment, supplies, and tools that the industries are currently using.”
The camp is one of more than a dozen that TSC and WTCE are hosting for middle and high school students throughout the summer.
“We have a lot of support from the school districts,” Leal said. “We also work closely with them throughout the year. We want to make sure students succeed and are college- and career-ready after graduation.”
The welding workshop drew strong interest from campers, including Ethan Hernandez, a student from San Perlita Middle School who comes from a family of welders.
“I like how you had the chance to cut your initial out and take it home,” he said.
Hernandez said he enjoyed all the workshops and shared his experience with his parents.
“I told them it was fun and that I learned a lot about different careers,” he said.
Dominic Hernandez, a student from Garcia Middle School in Brownsville, also comes from a family of welders and relished the opportunity to use the tools provided by instructors.
“I want to keep it going for generations,” Dominic said. “The plasma cutter was my favorite. You can weld and cut at the same time.”
Leal said the enthusiasm he sees from students reinforces the effort staff members put into organizing the camp.
“It’s hands-on with jackets and helmets, and they get to experience what it feels like,” Leal said. “They get excited and take things home. We see there’s a lot of talent out there.”
Students in the auto body workshop used a simulator to practice painting cars and were given small car models to apply their skills and take home.
“They gave us a car, and we had to cover it with a clear coat,” said Hailey Gutierrez, a student from Vela Middle School in Brownsville. “I really enjoyed it because I never expected myself to do that kind of work.”
Ensuring campers have fun and memorable experiences is a key component of the summer camps.
“We want them to take that experience home and talk about it with their parents,” Leal said. “That way, they can make informed decisions about their future and what degree or career they want to pursue.”
