Story written by J-1 correspondent: Jordan Payne

 

While for most, the B lunch bell may signal a rotation from class into lunch study or a transfer from class to lunch, but for Godwin senior Robbie Ellis, it means it is time for him to board a bus that will take him to Hermitage High School.

At the Hermitage technical center Elis takes classes in their Air Conditioning Program.

“Going to two schools makes the day more exciting, it doesn’t feel like actual school,” said Ellis

Through Hermitage Technical Center Ellis has earned his OSHA 10, which is required by various jobs to receive a position in a HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) career. In order to receive his OSHA 10, Robbie had to complete a 25 hour course on recognition, avoidance, abatement, and prevention of safety and health hazards in the workplace.

This was Ellis’ second year at the tech center and he has put a lot of work into his HVAC training. His hard work paid off when he was offered a five year apprenticeship in Maryland, which will help him get a start in his career.

At this apprenticeship, Ellis will be performing a variety of different tasks. Ellis has confirmed that he will not be attending college, but will begin working straight out of high school.

“I’m definitely happy that I do what I do. I knew I wasn’t going to college. It isn’t for everyone,” said Ellis.

Ellis is no stranger to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning field of work, he grew up around it. This is what prompted him to apply for the center.

“My dad does HVAC and electrical work, so I grew up doing it. I just felt it was something I could grasp, and I felt like it was something I could do out of high school,” said Ellis.

Ellis has stated that he will turn his training from the Tech Center into his career. He also plans on taking the five year apprenticeship that he has been offered in Maryland.

“I hope to use this opportunity to start my career,” said Ellis, “I hope that someday I will be able to start my own business.”

Although Ellis is moving on from high school, the memories he has created at the tech center will never be forgotten.

“The experience created by the Tech Center was awesome; it was something I had never done before. I had never gone to a class for a career. I also formed new friendships and a new friendship with my teacher Mr. Renick,” said Ellis.