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Local Training and Education
Investing in the workforce is one of the most important parts of long-term economic growth. Breckinridge County is in a strong position, with a consistent pipeline of skilled workers being trained locally and entering the workforce each year.
That pipeline is driven in large part by the Breckinridge County Area Technology Center, which continues to play a central role in preparing students for high-demand careers right here in the county.
Breckinridge County Area Technology Center
The Breckinridge County Area Technology Center (BCATC) is one of the county’s strongest workforce assets and a key part of its economic development strategy. The school works closely with the local business community to provide hands-on training across a range of technical fields, preparing students for careers in industries that are already active in the region.
A $6 million renovation and expansion completed in 2019 significantly increased the school’s capacity and capabilities, including larger machining classrooms, expanded welding facilities, and the addition of new program space.
In addition to serving high school students, the BCATC also offers seasonal welding classes for adults and hosts regional competitions, further strengthening its role as a training hub for the area.
Training Programs
BCATC offers hands-on training in a variety of high-demand fields, including:
- Automotive Technology
- Business & Marketing
- Computerized Manufacturing & Machining
- Health Sciences
- Industrial Maintenance
- Information Technology
- Welding Technology
These programs are designed to align with the needs of local employers and provide students with practical, real-world skills.
Workforce Pipeline and Industry Connections
The BCATC’s strength is in the connection between training and real workforce demand. Students in programs such as machining, welding, health sciences, and industrial maintenance are gaining hands-on experience, earning industry certifications, and participating in co-op and internship opportunities with local employers.
That helps create a clearer path from the classroom into the workforce while giving local industry access to a steady pipeline of trained workers.
Local Employer Perspective
In this video, Atlas Machine & Supply talks about its experience in Breckinridge County, including the value of the local workforce, the community, and its partnership with the BCATC.
"Every decision that we've made based on the level of partnership with this county has just turned to gold for us."
-Richie Gimmel, Atlas Machine & Supply
Regional Training Partnerships
Workforce development in Breckinridge County is further supported through partnerships with Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC). Through its Workforce Solutions program, ECTC works with local employers to provide training for new hires, assist with recruitment, and offer continuing education opportunities.
These partnerships also bring additional training opportunities directly into the county. Classes offered through ECTC at the BCATC include welding and workforce readiness courses, expanding access to education for both students and adults already in the workforce.
Breck Hive
Breck Hive is a student-led business program at the Breckinridge County Area Technology Center that connects students with local businesses in a more hands-on way.
Through yearlong partnerships, job shadowing, and the "What’s Buzzing in Breck" podcast, students get a firsthand look at how businesses operate while building early connections to the local business community. It helps introduce the next generation to the opportunities already taking shape in Breckinridge County and helps students see a future for themselves here.
Schools in Our Area
Breckinridge County is served by two public school districts and one private school, providing a strong educational foundation from early learning through high school.
Additional Information
About
Breckinridge County United, or Breck United, is a non-profit economic development organization committed to advancing the economic prosperity of Breckinridge County.
If you have any questions about what Breck United can do for you, please contact us.
Our Mission
Breck United strives to create an environment for sustainable growth and development. We accomplish this by laying the foundation for the recruitment of new industry and the continued retention and expansion of local business in order to create a healthier and wealthier community.
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