Unveiling Career Pathways: Roseburg High School's Showcase for Future Leaders

Career and Technical Education Showcase at RHS

On January 21, 2025, industry leaders, community partners, legislators, educators, and students gathered at Roseburg High School to explore the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and expanding career pathways.

The event, held on January 8th, was organized in collaboration with the Oregon Association for Career and Technical Education to present the school’s offerings to Oregon lawmakers. Notable attendees included Representatives Court Boice and Virgle Osborne, who toured the programs and engaged with students, staff, and local industry representatives from forestry, healthcare, and manufacturing.

The showcase emphasized the significant transformation in career education at RHS, moving from basic skill-focused training to comprehensive professional certification pathways. Students now have the opportunity to pursue entry-level careers or complete substantial casework needed for their degrees in partnership with Umpqua Community College, all at no out-of-pocket costs.

Superintendent Jared Cordon remarked, “We have incredibly talented students in our schools, and we need to ensure they have reasons to stay and work in our community and help it thrive after they’ve graduated from high school.”

Prominent industry leaders present included Russ Wooley, CEO of CHI Mercy Health Roseburg, Tim Vredenburg, Director of Forest Management for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, and Brandon Ikola, owner of Versatile Trailers.

UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt stated that this partnership not only highlights career pathways but also creates efficiencies that conserve public funds and could serve as a blueprint for other communities.

For more details about the event, visit Roseburg Public Schools.