The Eden Career Technical Center in Ashville hosted mock interview sessions for St. Clair County students on Feb. 1. The process was part of a simulated work place program the center has been producing for students to provide real world experience. Students were interviewing to be accepted into classes and programs at the center. 

The school provides programs in business management and administration, carpentry, collision repair, emergency management services, culinary practices, drafting and design technology, information technology, welding and horticulture. 

“Once the tallies are made, disciplines and attendance are looked at, then we’ll score them and the top 20 get into the program,” said principal Trish Turner. “Then we send out a letter congratulating them for getting into the program.”

Turner expects the students will receive their acceptance letters at the beginning of March.

Information technology teacher Gabe Lee said the interview questions cover topics such as work ethic, passions and how their role in that particular job can benefit society.

“I want people enthusiastic, we do robotics, 3D printing, programming, so I want them to be engaged,” said Lee. “I try to focus on each one of them and what they’re strongest at.

“My goal is when they leave here, either help them go to work or go to college. Whichever they want to do, I’ll support their decision,” said Lee.

In addition to attending classes at the ETCT, students have to take an online class to make up for the credit they’re missing for the school they attend, which the program coordinators make sure the student can handle before accepting them. 

As part of the mock interview program, they also invited guest speakers such as Go Build Alabama, which Turner said she hopes gets students interested in construction, welding and other careers related to physical labor.   

A culinary program will be moving into the center as well. Turner said they’re hoping to have a groundbreaking within the next couple of months.

Lee said his biggest goal is to help students figure out how to be comfortable financially in their adult lives and do what they’re passionate about. He also said if students don’t do well in the interview, but peers say good things about them, he considers giving them a chance. 

“I don’t think I’ve outright said no to anyone, I like to give everyone a chance,” said Lee.