James Valley Career and Technology Center offers hands-on programs – Jamestown Sun

As we begin the 2025–2026 school year, we are thrilled to welcome you to another exciting and inspiring year at the James Valley Career and Technology Center (JVCTC)! Whether you are returning from Jamestown High School, Montpelier, or Pingree-Buchanan, or joining us for the first time from Gackle, Medina, or beyond, we are so glad to have you with us.

We hope your summer was restful and energizing, and we cannot wait to see the creativity,
curiosity, and dedication you will bring to your classes. JVCTC is proud to offer a wide range of hands-on programs designed to help you gain real-world skills and explore meaningful career pathways. Together, let us make this a year of growth, opportunity, and success!

At the James Valley Career and Technology Center, we are proud to offer a diverse range of hands-on programs designed to prepare students for success in a variety of high-demand career fields.

This year, we are excited to relaunch our robust Agriculture Education program under the guidance of Mrs. Amber Krapp, who will also be instructing our Culinary Arts and an introduction to Teacher Education courses.

Students interested in the automotive field can choose between Auto Technology with Mr. David Kline, where they will learn to diagnose, repair, and maintain vehicle systems, or Auto Collision with Mr. Kevin Kubat, which focuses on vehicle body repair and refinishing. Both our Auto Technology and Auto Collision programs have recently earned ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification, a significant achievement that allows students to pursue nationally recognized industry credentials while still in high school. This not only enhances their skills but also gives them a competitive edge as they enter the workforce or continue their education.

Mr. Bob Thoreson leads our comprehensive Building Trades program, covering essential skills in home construction and repair, including framing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more.

Health Careers with Mrs. Rene Reed provides practical classroom and clinical experiences for students pursuing healthcare professions, while Child Development with Ms. Teresa Olson and Mrs. Bonnie Mielke offers foundational training in child care and early childhood education.

In the skilled trades, Mr. Walt Marinkovits teaches both Precision Machining, focusing on manufacturing and machine operations, and Welding, where students develop key techniques and safety skills.

For those interested in aviation, Mr. Sid Mann introduces students to the fundamentals of flight and the aviation industry.

Finally, through our Work-Based Learning program led by Mr. Jerry Waagen, students have the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience by partnering with local businesses and industries.

Each of these programs are designed to inspire, empower, and equip students for future success.

We are also excited to introduce some new initiatives this year that further expand our commitment to workforce development and community support. First, our Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training program will prepare eligible students for licensure and careers in the transportation industry, meeting a growing need in our region. Second, we are launching a Culinary Arts program under the guidance of Mrs. Amber Krapp, where students will gain direct experience in food preparation, safety, and kitchen operations to prepare for careers in the culinary and hospitality fields.

In addition to our high school programs, the James Valley Career and Technology Center is
proud to support lifelong learning through our Adult Education program, led by Mr. Bryan
Miller. This program offers GED preparation and testing, empowering adult learners to reach their educational and career goals while building skills that open new doors and opportunities.

Exciting developments are underway at Jamestown Public Schools. We are proud to introduce The Little Blue Jay Nest, our on-site child care facility, designed to serve the children of our dedicated district employees. More than just a childcare center, this space will also serve as a hands-on learning lab for students in our Child Development program, giving them valuable real- world experience in early childhood education.

Additionally, our Building Trades program is expanding with the construction of a new facility just south of the Career and Tech Center. The exterior is expected to be completed by October, after which students will take the lead in designing and finishing the interior throughout the school year, giving them an authentic, project-based experience in their field.

Big things are happening, and we cannot wait to see these initiatives come to life.

Our devoted faculty and staff remain committed to fostering a positive, hands-on learning
environment that encourages critical thinking, career exploration, and personal growth. We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our community partners, whose dedication and collaboration play a vital role in the success of our programs.

As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, we encourage every student to take full advantage of the many opportunities available at JVCTC. Get involved, ask questions, connect with your instructors, and immerse yourself in the experiences that will shape your future.

We look forward to another exciting year of innovation, learning, and achievement. Together, let’s make this school year our most successful one yet.