Western Pennsylvania was built on the backs of blue-collar workers who opted for the trade career route rather than pursuing a four-year degree. As the editorial “Embracing and supporting career and tech education is critical” (May 1, TribLIVE) stated, “career education is not less than college education. It is merely different.”

We wholeheartedly agree. The CNX Mentorship Academy builds on Pittsburgh’s legacy and aims to break this stigma by presenting high school students the opportunity to learn about top-notch careers locally that don’t require tying yourself to immense debt. Site visits and one-on-one interactions with workers in energy, manufacturing, aviation, real estate, hospitality, health care and more make the tangible connection that these are real people and real jobs.

We’re proud to help open doors and create connections between students, companies and business leaders to truly grow and retain local talent from within. If you’re a high school junior or senior in Southwestern Pennsylvania, consider joining the Mentorship Academy family. Applications for the 2023-24 class can be found online.

Audric Dodds

Cecil

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