Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC) students were recognized throughout the month of May 2026 during a series of celebrations, pinning ceremonies, certification recognitions, and graduation events honoring student achievement across several career and technical education programs.
The celebrations highlighted the dedication, perseverance, and hands-on training students have completed as they prepare to enter careers in public safety, healthcare, cosmetology, and skilled trades.
On Tuesday May 5, CTEC proudly celebrated Public Safety graduates during the annual graduation ceremony for newly certified firefighters and Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Families, instructors, and community members gathered to recognize students for completing rigorous academic, physical, and practical training programs designed to prepare them for careers serving and protecting their communities.
The ceremony opened with the presentation of colors by the CCPS JROTC Color Guard and included reflections and words of encouragement from instructors. Students were also recognized with the Trailblazer Spirit Award, honoring individuals who demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment within their programs.
Healthcare programs were also recognized during ceremonies held on May 7. Students in the Medical Assistant program participated in a pinning ceremony celebrating their hard work, perseverance, compassion, and growth throughout the program. During their studies, students also worked toward earning their Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential, an important step toward careers in the healthcare field.
That same day, students from the Healthcare Technician program gathered for their annual Pinning Ceremony, recognizing their dedication and commitment to pursuing careers in healthcare. The ceremony also included a special tribute to Healthcare Technician instructor Mrs. Betty Brooks, who is retiring this year. During the event, Mr. Summerscales presented a commemorative pinning in her honor, recognizing the lasting impact she has made on countless students throughout her career.
CTEC also celebrated major accomplishments within its Cosmetology program. Students recently passed their state board exams and officially became licensed cosmetologists after completing extensive classroom instruction and hands-on training. In addition, Dual Enrollment Cosmetology II students graduated on May 9 from Southside Virginia Community College at Longwood University, earning a Career Studies Certificate in Licensure Preparation in Cosmetology and Barbering.
Students in the HVAC program were recognized for earning their EPA 608 Universal Certifications, an industry-recognized credential that qualifies technicians to safely and legally handle refrigerants. HVAC Level 2 students achieved this important milestone through classroom instruction and practical training designed to prepare them for future careers in the HVAC industry.
“These ceremonies and recognitions represent the incredible dedication our students have shown throughout the year,” said CTEC Principal Shaun Summerscales. “We are proud of the hard work, professionalism, and perseverance demonstrated by each of these students as they prepare for successful futures in their chosen career fields.”
CTEC continues to provide students with opportunities to earn industry certifications, college credits, and real-world experience that prepare them for workforce success and continued education.
Congratulations to all of our CTEC Trailblazers on these outstanding achievements.