Career and Technical Edcuation Programs Testimonials

"Business Technology was the best program that participated in while I was in high school. It gave me an opportunity to have some real life experience in the workplace that I could not have learned in the classroom.  Being able to have class in the morning and work in the afternoons helped me to develop responsibility and punctuality, and these are two key factors in beginning a career. I truly enjoyed my classroom and activity time that that the program gave me, and I would recommend the program to anyone looking to get an early head start in the workplace.

I began working at Pipeline Testing Consortium, Inc. in July of 2001 and have been here since (5 1/2 years). I started as an office aid, running copies, filing, mailing things like that. After high school I had training in scanning, mailing out my own letters, floating around to different departments within the company to
learn more about the business, and soon after I began working in the accounting department. I am currently and Accounting Representative and I mainly handle all the accounts receivable. I run transactions for the regular company payables and scan regularly. I love my job and am thankful for BPA for finding me my career!"

-Erica Garcia, Pipeline Testing Consortium, Inc., Graduate 2005,

"My experience in the Marketing Program and DECA was the highlight of my high school career. It challenged me to be the best I could be and jump started my career.”

Jason Pennington, 1998 graduate, Training Station: Target. Management Team-Presentation Team Leader, Target of Hutchinson.

“My training through the marketing program really set the foundation for my post high school educational and career decisions. I found out that I love doing business. I am an accountant with a passion for marketing.”

Patrick Raya, 1999 graduate. Training Station: Sears. Working for Porter Accounting in Wichita in business auditing and tax planning. Earned Business and Accounting Degrees from Wichita State University.

“I was just expecting to go to work to see how a hotel runs and get certified. My expectations were exceeded. I learned how to work with other people, how to interact with guests and so much more. I learned things in the book and would go to work and see the things I learned used at the hotel.”

Stephen Armstrong, 2003 graduate, Training Station: Best Western Hotel. Earned Year 1 Lodging Certification. Currently a junior at Wichita State University and Front End Manager of the Sleep Inn, next to the new Wild West World, in Park City.

“I gained a lot of knowledge about business that has helped me in many areas of my life. I discovered how to make things better and more useful, using a computer, and how to communicate better. And, most of all, I had fun.”

Mitch Bringle, 2005 graduate. Training Station: Sears. Currently a sophomore at Pittsburgh StateUniversity and studying to become a business teacher.

“My experience in the Marketing and DECA program has provided me with contacts that will benefit me for the rest of my life. I learned how to implement the five promotional elements and the ins and outs of the marketing mix. I gained customer service skills and management skills in relation to the retail world. I would like to become a marketing coordinator for a large retail company.

Sarah Key, 2006 graduate, Training Station: Finish Line. Currently a freshmen at Sterling College, studying marketing. Assistant manager at Hutchinson Finish Line.

“I like the fact that I can work and go to school and get credits at the same time. It has made me more responsible, taught me how to relate to customers and coworkers better, and how to promote.”

Whitney Walden, will graduate in 2007, Training Station: Dillons. Planning to earn an Associates Degree in Applied Management from Hutchinson Community College, attended beauty school and become a licensed cosmetologist.

“In my opinion, the Business Technology program at Hutchinson High School is top notch!  I attended Hutchinson High School from 1993-1997.  In the classroom I learned essential skills to take into the workplace that will last my lifetime.  The classroom setting was fun and stimulating thanks to the great teachers and other students.  The best part of being in the Business Technology program was the work study part of the classes.  I started work for Hutchinson Public Schools in July of 1996 as a file clerk in the business office.  After graduating high school, I continued with the business program at Hutchinson Community College where I earned my Secretarial Certificate, all the time still working for Hutchinson Public Schools.   I don’t feel like I can say enough good things about the Business Technology program at Hutchinson High School.  The program ultimately helped set my career future. 

Jamie Brown, 1997 graduate, Training Station:  Hutchinson Public Schools. Earned Secretarial Certificate from Hutchinson Community College.  Currently in her 10^th year with the district, 6^th year as Payroll/Benefits Coordinator.

My time in the journalism program at Hutch High was an incredible experience that introduced me to the world of journalistic writing that I still enjoy and use today in college. I learned so much during my time in the program and I have many fond memories working on the newspaper; it was a good experience in responsibility and creativity.

Jordan Nisly (2004 graduate), Baptist Bible College, Editor of Patriot Press / Baptist Bible College student Newspaper.

 "The journalism program at HHS helped prepare me for college by developing important academic skills such as research, critical thinking and effective writing as well as more targeted capabilities including photography and graphic design. The process of editing the school paper offered practical lessons in strategic planning, accuracy, teamwork and adherence to deadlines--all of which are important regardless of one's chosen profession."

Joe Ontjes, 1991 graduate of Hutchinson High School, President & Creative Director, Springfire Solutions Group, Inc., Bachelor of Science, Communications, Wheaton College, Master of Science, Journalism, University of Kansas,President-Elect, Rotary Club of Hutchinson, Board of Directors, Hutchinson Public Library, Board of Directors, Hutchinson High School Alumni Association, Corporate Solicitor, United Way of Reno County.


"While I was on staff, I realized exactly how much work goes into a large production like a yearbook. I learned organizational skills ,management skills, and of course journalism skills, most of which I
still use today."

“The business department at Hutch High has really helped my knowledge about computers and business grow.  Taking classes in this department will help me in the future.”

                Holly Leiker, Class of 2006

“Taking different business classes like Computer Applications and Entrepreneurship have really helped me define more of what I would like to do in the future.”

                Amanda Walker, Class of 2005

“The web design courses at HHS are second to none.  I had the pleasure of helping design and manage one of the best student-produced school web sites in the state of Kansas.”

                Kyle Murphy, Class of 2004

“Through my participation in the Business Technology program, I received a job related to my career choice.  This experience will help me get into college and has given me a head start on my career.”

                Ashley Leatherman, Class 2004