Elgin ISD CTE Newsletter
Maggie Howard, M.Ed.
Director of CCMR, CTE & PTECH
Elgin Independent School District
ACEA Career Expo 🚧
On Friday, March 27, students attended the Greater ACEA Construction Expo hosted by the City of Austin Watershed Protection Department. The department plays a critical role in installing and maintaining the infrastructure that manages rainwater and flood control throughout the city.
During the expo, students connected with industry professionals from land surveying firms, heavy equipment sales and service companies, and Watershed Department staff. They also gained hands-on experience by operating heavy equipment themselves, giving them a firsthand look at careers in construction and infrastructure management.
The Wildcat Resurgence ⚡
Seniors in the Practicum of Transportation Systems course are hard at work on their annual capstone project — rebuilding The Wildcat. While progress takes patience and precision, students are making steady strides as they reassemble the electrical vehicle (EV) and add this year’s custom touch: purple underbody lighting for an eye-catching glow.
This longstanding project goes far beyond basic automotive repair. Each year, students integrate electrical systems, computer diagnostics, and advanced automotive service skills — preparing them to adapt and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving automotive industry.
Flower Power 💐
Elgin Floral Design and Advanced Floral Design students recently explored the floral industry firsthand with a visit to two Austin-area businesses. Their first stop was Pikes Peak Floral, the wholesaler they regularly order from, where students learned about global flower sourcing, processing, and fulfilling florist orders.
The group then visited Freytag’s Florist to experience the retail side of the industry, observing designers at work, plant sales, and cash-and-carry operations. The visit provided valuable, real-world insight into career opportunities in both wholesale and retail floral design.
TSTC TechXperience 📚
Students recently attended TechXperience Day at the Texas State Technical College Williamson County campus, where they explored hands-on career pathways in high-demand technical fields. Throughout the day, students participated in interactive demonstrations, toured state-of-the-art labs, and connected with instructors and industry professionals.
From advanced manufacturing and welding to cybersecurity and automotive technology, TechXperience provided a firsthand look at the skills, certifications, and training opportunities available after high school. The visit gave students valuable insight into career-ready programs and helped them envision the next steps in their education and workforce journey.
Elgin High School welding students recently partnered with the Elgin Baseball & Softball Association to help prepare the fields for the spring season. Students designed and constructed a new set of bleachers in the EHS welding lab, then transported and installed them at the Elgin Little League fields. While onsite, they also replaced boards on an existing set of bleachers—enhancing safety, function, and appearance for families and fans.
This collaborative project addressed a real community need—one that will benefit Elgin families for years to come. For many of our students, these are the same fields where they once played during their own little league years, making the experience especially meaningful.
The Elgin Baseball & Softball Association generously provided all materials for the project. Throughout the design and build process, students gained valuable hands-on experience that strengthened both their academic knowledge and industry-ready skills—skills that are transferable across a wide range of career pathways. This partnership was a true example of collaboration, creating lasting impact for both our students and our community.
Students pictured here installing the boards include: (L-R) Alexis Ramirez, Ruben Zuniga, Eric Gonzalez, Emilio Padron, Jose Salas, and AJ Snyder. Welding instructors whose classes participated in this project are Brayton Buchanan, Andrew Buckler, and Josh Warner.
Student leaders from FFA and TAFE recently stepped beyond their own classrooms to serve in two meaningful volunteer events: reading to students at Elgin’s own Neidig Elementary School and guiding elementary groups as tour leaders during the Rodeo Austin (STAR of Texas) Livestock Show.
At Neidig, high school students shared stories, encouraged questions, and connected with younger learners—promoting literacy while modeling confidence, character, and a love for learning. During the livestock show, students took on the role of ambassadors, leading tours, explaining agricultural projects, and engaging elementary visitors in educational discussions about animal science, industry practices, and the importance of agriculture in our daily lives.
Both experiences provided valuable leadership development for FFA and TAFE members as they represented Elgin ISD with professionalism and pride. By serving as positive role models and mentors, these students strengthened their communication skills, built confidence, and demonstrated the power of service-driven leadership in action.
The Elgin ISD CTE Advisory Committee met on March 25 for a comprehensive program update and labor-market review. Longtime P-TECH welding partner Athena Manufacturing graciously sponsored the meeting and hosted the committee at their north Austin facility.
During the meeting, members reviewed current CTE programs and examined how they align with emerging occupations and evolving labor-market demands. The committee included industry professionals from a variety of sectors, higher education partners, EISD leadership, community members, and parents—each offering valuable insight to ensure our programs remain relevant, rigorous, and responsive to workforce needs.
Following the meeting, attendees toured the Athena Manufacturing facility, gaining firsthand exposure to advanced manufacturing processes and welding fabrication in action. We thank Athena for their hospitality and for their ongoing commitment to Elgin ISD's Career & Technical Education programs.
The committee will reconvene this summer and is actively seeking additional industry partners, community members, and parents representing all grade levels to join this important work. Those interested in serving on the CTE Advisory Committee are encouraged to contact the CTE Department or complete the interest form below for more information.
Dress for Success Every Wednesday!
Students and staff at every campus are encouraged to dress to represent a college, trade school, business or industry weekly on Wednesdays.