As the CEO of FlexMetrics, I have the pleasure of visiting numerous advanced manufacturing facilities across the USA. I first heard of the dire predictions of a skilled worker shortage due to retiring baby-boomers over 15 years ago. 

That shortage is now — obviously — upon us. 

For the first time in my life, I am seeing mission critical manufacturing lines shut down due to a lack of experienced, skilled operators. Eventually, this will manifest as empty store shelves. This shortage of skilled workers is also resulting in astronomical increases in entry-level pay — which will continue to fuel the painful inflationary cycle we are now experiencing. 

Career & Technical Education (CTE) has always been a pathway to economic mobility and middle-class career opportunities for our next generation workforce. CTE is now serving as one of the few relatively short-term solutions for relieving the supply chain disruptions and inflationary cycles facing us today. 

Roanoke City Public Schools is clearly part of the solution. ROTEC has a track record of success. It is an amazing pipeline for recruiting and developing our future leaders within a wide range of professions ranging from advanced manufacturing, to healthcare to automotive technology. It is impressive to see the Roanoke private sector step up to support these important programs with their generous donations to the 2022 ROTEC CTE extravaganza!

Please join me in supporting the Roanoke Technical Education Center!