Henrico CTE Now (Career & Technical Education)

Ronnie Betts career story at Dominion Power is not unique. Discover his story and the amazing career opportunities at Dominion Power! It's so much more than you think.

Welcome to the cutting edge of aviation and data! The fusion of GIS and Drones is revolutionizing how we map our world—replacing slow, costly surveys with high-speed, precision tech. In today’s episode, we’re diving into this high-growth frontier with three industry leaders:

 Veronica Spradlin-Drone (Virginia Tech Drone Park)

Jill Rich (Varina High School GIS/UAS Educator)

 Dan Stooks (Henrico County Public Schools CTE Specialist)

Get ready to explore how you can launch a career at the intersection of data science, engineering, and flight.

In an era where the commercial construction industry is facing a massive skilled labor shortage, how do we bridge the gap? From the ground up! Kenbridge Construction is leading the charge with state-of-the-art projects like the new ACE Center at Virginia Randolph.In this episode, we sit down with Kenbridge’s Brandon Spencer and Cameron Reekes to tackle the industry's biggest hiring hurdles. We explore how cutting-edge tech is reshaping the job site and why today’s CTE students are the missing piece to solving the workforce puzzle. Get the blueprint on how the next generation can step into high-demand roles and build a powerhouse career.

In this episode, we’re joined by Henrico County Building Inspection Supervisors Jeff Reed (Commercial) and Richard Moore (Residential) to pull back the curtain on the skilled labor shortage. From stalled production lines to the growing housing crisis, we’re diving into the real-world impact of a workforce in retreat.

In this episode, we plug into a vital conversation about the soaring demand for skilled electrical workers. We are joined by industry experts: Grant Shmelzer, CEO of IEC Chesapeake, and Mac Beaton, Director of Workforce and Career Development with Henrico County Public Schools.

Join us as they illuminate the urgent need for more young people to explore a rewarding career in the electrical field, discussing the growth opportunities, training pathways, and the bright future for those ready to power our communities.

A student can grind through coursework to earn certifications, professional licenses, and college credits—but are they truly prepared for the financial realities of adulthood? In today’s fast-paced world, financial readiness is just as critical as a diploma. That is where the incredible team at Henrico Credit Union steps in. Led by Marketing Manager Charity Rupp and Rachel Johnston, Financial Education Specialist, they are providing life-changing tools and guidance to ensure both students and adults are empowered to own their financial futures!

The total "Care Economy," which includes both paid and unpaid care, is currently valued at roughly $6 trillion (nearly a quarter of U.S. GDP), and experts warn it is at risk of significant contraction due to these labor shortages.

Today, we talk with Mary Helen Crowder, Home Health Aide Instructor, at the ACE Center at Hermitage, about what Henrico County Schools are doing to do their part to close the healthcare labor gap. We were visited by one of Mary’s outstanding students and spoke with her about her experiences in the program.

When professional home health aides are unavailable or unaffordable, the burden shifts to family members. As of late 2025, the estimated economic value of unpaid caregiving in the U.S. has climbed to over $1 trillion annually. A study in Health Affairs estimated the personal cost of unearned income for family caregivers at roughly $67 billion per year, a figure expected to double by 2050 as the "silver tsunami" of aging retirees intensifies.

2025 was nothing short of extraordinary for Henrico’s CTE! From record-breaking student achievements to powerful new industry partnerships, the growth has been relentless. As we gear up for an even bigger 2026, join us for a look back at the most game-changing conversations that defined our year. Hit play and get inspired!

Episode: Designing Your Future: Career Pathways in Architecture

Architecture encompasses a wide range of fields and areas of expertise. In this episode, professional architects Allison Leighton and Billy Riggs share what sparked their interest at a young age and which CTE skills students can use to build their own foundation for career success.   

Join us for an exciting conversation with Kim Evans, CAD & Architectural Drafting instructor and SkillsUSA Advisor, and her dynamic student leaders, Carter Bush and Quincy Wilson. They break down the world of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD)—explaining its essential role in today's economy. Plus, discover the inspiring journey of how Quincy and Carter found their passion, joined the program, and became key student officers in SkillsUSA!