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Jackson, Mich. – Students from the Jackson Area Career Center recently achieved outstanding results at the 2024 National FFA Convention and Expo, held in Indianapolis, showcasing their skills and commitment to excellence in agriculture education.

Current and former Agriscience students excelled across several categories, bringing home national awards and recognition:

• Camryn Smilowski (Napoleon senior) and Morgan St. Charles (Columbia Central Class of 2024) secured 4th Place nationally in the Agriscience Fair - Plant Systems Category.

• Sydney Gallagher (Napoleon High School Class of 2024) earned a Bronze Award, placing 34th nationally in the Agriscience Fair - Animal Systems Category.

The Agriscience Fair, a prestigious event at the annual National FFA Convention & Expo, recognizes students conducting scientific research projects related to agriculture, food, and natural resources systems. These students engage in rigorous research to solve complex agricultural challenges, demonstrating their understanding of scientific principles and emerging technologies.

In addition to the Agriscience Fair, one student and one alum of the program were honored in the Proficiency Awards category. Proficiency Awards celebrate FFA members who develop specialized skills through supervised agricultural experiences, preparing them for future careers in the agriculture industry:

• Luna Canziani (Western Class of 2024) achieved a Silver Award in Diversified Horticulture Placement Proficiency.

• Ava Neelis (Springport senior) received a Bronze Award in Specialty Animal Production Placement Proficiency.

The Jackson Area Career Center FFA chapter also received the 2-Star National Chapter Award. This prestigious award is given to FFA chapters that actively advance the organization's mission by growing leaders, building communities, and strengthening agriculture through a comprehensive Program of Activities.

The Career Center’s success in these national competitions highlights the hard work, innovation, and passion that drive the next generation of leaders in agriculture. “We are thrilled to see so many of our students excel at the national level,” said Jennifer Smith, JACC Agriscience instructor and FFA Mentor. “Their dedication and hard work truly shine through these accomplishments. The Career Center FFA’s recognition as a 2-Star State Chapter is especially meaningful, as it reflects our chapter's commitment to community involvement and giving back to Jackson,” said Smith.

Photo 1: Camryn Smilowski (Napoleon High School) & Morgan St. Charles (Columbia Central High School ‘24 grad) - National winners, Plant Systems
Photo 2: Sydney Gallagher (Napoleon High School ‘24 grad) - Bronze Award for Agriscience Fair - Animal Systems
Photo 3: Ava Neelis (Springport High School) & Luna Canziani (Western High School ‘24 grad(- Bronze and Silver award winners in Proficiency

Jackson, MI – The Jackson Area Career Center (JACC) is proud to introduce two significant scholarship opportunities for Michigan residents seeking to advance their careers through education. These scholarships aim to support adult learners in their pursuit of career training and further education, demonstrating JACC's commitment to lifelong learning and workforce development in Michigan.

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity for individuals looking to embark on or advance in their career journey. Eligible students may receive up to $2,000 to attend a career training program at the Jackson Area Career Center. This scholarship is available to those who graduated from a Michigan high school or received a GED in 2023 or later. It's designed to open doors for students by providing financial support for vocational training, helping them gain the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in today's competitive job market.

Michigan Reconnect Short Term Training Program Scholarship

In collaboration with the Michigan Reconnect initiative, the Short Term Training Program Scholarship is specifically tailored for Michigan residents aged 21 years or older who have yet to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree. This one-time scholarship provides up to $1,500 towards tuition costs for students choosing to attend a career training program where they can gain new skills or credentials in their chosen field.

Interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.jacc-mi.net for more information on how to apply and detailed descriptions of the available career training programs.

About Jackson Area Career Center
The Jackson Area Career Center is a leader in career and technical education and skills training in Michigan, offering a wide range of programs designed to equip adult learners and high school students with the necessary skills for successful careers in various industries. Our commitment to excellence in education, student support, and community service drives us to offer programs that meet the evolving needs of our workforce and economy.

Jackson, Mich. -- Mark your calendar for this reimagined event! 

Cosmetology and Esthetics students are teaming up for the "Into the Wild" Beauty Services and Fashion Event on Wednesday, March 20 at the East Jackson Secondary School Auditorium, located at 1566 N. Sutton Road.

This will be similar to the Hair Show of years' past where students create stunning looks on a mannequin head or a live model and are judged by members of industry. This year, some Cosmetology students have chosen an "Esthi Bestie" where they will work together on their creation.

Doors open at 5:30pm and the event starts at 6pm. Admission and parking will be free. Donations to SOAR Café & Farms is appreciated. SOAR is a non-profit in Jackson that exists to provide healing, housing, and employment for women survivors of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and trauma.

Jackson, Mich. – The Jackson Area Career Center is celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month by opening its doors to students and parents during its annual Open House on Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 4pm - 7pm.

Eighth-through-11th graders and their families are invited to tour nearly the two-dozen programs preparing students for high-demand, high-wage and high-skill careers in the 21st century workforce. Families can learn more about the benefits of attending the Career Center, including how students can earn free college credits and industry credentials while attending classes at their high school.

A wide range of interactive demonstrations will be taking place throughout the evening by current students and certified instructors who use their on-the-job experience to teach through a combination of academics and hands-on projects. “The Jackson Area Career Center’s annual Open House showcases all of our high quality career and technical education programs. I highly encourage students and their families to attend to learn about the opportunities that are available,” said Dan Draper, principal at the Career Center. “Our programs focus not only on technical skills, but also build students’ academic and employability skills.”

High school counselors from area school districts will be on hand to answer questions about enrollment, which incoming juniors and seniors will be able to do on-site during the event. Parent information sessions will also be held throughout the evening to allow parents to ask questions about schedules, programs, and work-based learning opportunities.

Jackson, Mich. --- Students with an interest in the automotive industry can be assured they are getting top-notch training at the Jackson Area Career Center to prepare them for success.

The Career Center’s Automotive Technology program and Automotive Collision Repair program have received ASE Training Program accreditation by the ASE Education Foundation, signaling a commitment to quality and strict industry standards. To achieve this coveted recognition, the two programs underwent rigorous evaluation using nationally accepted standards of excellence in areas such as instruction, facilities, and equipment. 

For students, this means they are learning in programs that meet the highest national standards in automotive education. Business owners in the automotive sector can be assured graduates from the ASE-accredited program come equipped with skills and knowledge that align with industry expectations.

“This recognition for our two programs is more than just an accolade; it’s a testament to our dedication to quality education and adherence to stringent industry standards,” said Principal Dan Draper. "Students can learn and enhance their skills in the highest certified lab environment required for direct industry employment. Our local shops and dealerships are very fortunate to have this high school program to provide them with a knowledgeable foundation and eager workforce."  

ASE Education Foundation President Michael Coley said this is great news for automotive-minded young people and their parents. “Because these programs increase cooperation between local education and industry leaders, it gives added assurance that Career Center graduates will be employable entry-level technicians. As a result of the quality education provided by Jackson Area Career Center, the motoring public will benefit since better repair technicians will join the workforce.”