Waco Works Connects Washington County Students with Local Career & Education Pathways

Thirty-one students from Washington County High School (WCHS) participated in Waco Works at Oconee Fall Line Technical College (OFTC), an event designed to expose high school students to local education and career opportunities in Washington County, Tuesday, November 11. 

Sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, Waco Works is a partnership between OFTC, WCHS, and several key industries across the county. 

Launched in 2018, the event has grown into a valuable community collaboration that now takes place twice a year. 

“The Chamber understands the importance of workforce development to Washington County,” shared Washington County Chamber President Katie Moncus. “Because of this, Waco Works has been a priority in our plan annually.” 

“This day, in our eyes, connects the dots between the student, continuing education opportunities, and the career field,” she added. 

Waco Works 

When Waco Works first began in 2018, funding came from an EMC Electrical Foundation Grant. After seeing the program’s success and its positive impact on both students and local industries, the Chamber decided to continue sponsoring it annually. 

“We want to provide each student with an engaging day packed with valuable information from the most skilled leaders in the area,” Moncus shared. “Throughout the day, we showcase diverse local career opportunities and match those with OFTC’s course pathways. This gives students a full picture—from training to the field.” 

Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) students were selected by WCHS to participate. They toured several OFTC programs, including Machine Tool Technology, Automation, Electronics and Mechatronics, Welding, Electrical, Air-Conditioning Technology, Construction Management, Commercial Truck Driving, and Diesel Mechanics. 

Students also visited local industries such as Duraline and Imerys, where they heard from leaders about available jobs, training requirements, and what employers look for when hiring. 

“Take advantage of what you have an opportunity to do today,” said Dean Wilcher, Director of Work-Based Learning for Washington County High School, while addressing the students. “This is a great opportunity to learn about education, career training, and job opportunities close to home.” 

“Washington County has wonderful industries where you can work to provide a good living for yourself and your families,” he added. “Today is your day to network with people who can actually hire you. You never know who you’re going to meet and who can help you down the line. So, today, connect the dots – Washington County High School, OFTC, local industries, and great job opportunities.” 

Local Partnerships 

To meet workforce needs, local partnerships must continue to work together — and Waco Works is a prime example of that collaboration, Moncus said. 

“OFTC is one strong link to connecting the dots,” she noted. “This event impacts hundreds. While our target is the students who attend, it’s so much more than that. The WCHS staff, industry leaders, OFTC staff — all of these people get to see and hear about the opportunities in our community. These students might not enter the workforce for a few years or may already have jobs, but the connections they make during Waco Works can last a lifetime.” 

When OFTC was first approached about the partnership in 2018, the college immediately recognized the opportunity to further its mission of workforce development. 

“We have to expose students to the career and education opportunities right here in our county,” shared Erica Harden, OFTC President. “This is the core of what we do at OFTC.” 

“We have a need for skilled labor for existing and new industries in Washington County,” Harden continued. “OFTC and Washington County High School can be a catalyst for that workforce. We’re always grateful for the opportunity to work with community partners to inform students about the many educational and career training opportunities available close to home.” 

For more information about OFTC’s 130+ programs of study or the Waco Works program, visit OFTC.edu. 

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