Commencement ceremonies are next week, but a dozen Birmingham City Schools graduating seniors have already signed on to work with area companies after they receive their diplomas.
Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT) Academy of Craft Training held its annual signing day ceremony, where participants completing the program revealed where they will work after graduation.
These scholars gained hands-on experience in high-demand trades, namely construction, electrical, metal fabrication, HVAC and interior/exterior finishes. Starting salaries range from $45,000 to $85,000 for jobs in these fields.
This group of signees is especially significant for a several firsts. Among the signees is Nia Hall of Huffman High School, who is the first female scholar from Birmingham City Schools to complete the program and sign with a company before graduation. This is also the first signing class to include scholars from Ramsay High School.
Additionally, some scholars, such as Brayan Lemus from A.H. Parker High School, have already started working with their companies.
The program is open for sophomores and juniors to apply. For next school year, a record 43 scholars have earned acceptance into the program.
G.W. Carver High School: Michael Trotter – Comfort Systems USA-Midsouth; Franklin Juarez – Shelby Contractors; Juan Quevedo – Birmingham Electric (not pictured)
Huffman High School: Martino Grace – Hardy Corporation; Quenton Radford – Tassco; Nia Hall – Robins & Morton
A.H. Parker High School: Carlos Landaverde – Watson Bruhn; Brayan Lemus – Bright Future Electric
Ramsay I.B. High School: Dy'Yvonne Walton – Birmingham & Associates; Rodrell Cook – Xcel Masonry (not pictured)
Wenonah High School: Brian Ramos – Bright Future Electric; Quinton Counts – Hardy Corporation