Photos Provided Drone (left to right): Nick Connor and Mavrick Cross, both 2025 graduates of Toronto High School, complete the Drone Technology program at Belmont College. They will next take the FAA Recreational UAS Test, which is a pre-requisite for any 107 operator, and will then be eligible to complete their USI Modules, which will earn them the USI Part 107 Training Certification. This certification will prepare them to sit for the official Part 107 exam if they decide to do so.

Rylee Homko-Green, a 2025 graduate from Cambridge High School, cuts with plasma in the GRIT Welding program while other students observe.

ST. CLAIRSVILLE — This summer, high school seniors and recent high school graduates had the opportunity to earn workforce credential certifications and gain access to internships and job opportunities through an innovative partnership between GRIT Ohio and Belmont College.

The program offered no-cost, three-week courses thanks to funding provided by The GRIT Project (Growing Rural Independence Together). The purpose of these courses is to empower upcoming and graduating high school seniors by offering workforce credential certifications and internship/job placement opportunities.

A total of 21 students participated in the program, gaining hands-on experience across high-demand fields. Of the 21, eight enrolled in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning program, three in Heavy Equipment Technician, eight in Welding, and two in Drone Technology. They are receiving the following certifications, per enrolled program:

Drone Technology — Students will complete the FAA Recreational UAS Test, the pre-requisite for any 107 operator and they will be encouraged to complete their USI Modules, which will earn them the USI Part 107 Training Certification. This will prepare them to sit for the official Part 107 exam.

Heavy Equipment Technician — ASE Entry Level Certifications in Medium/Heavy duty trucks such as: Diesel Engines, Electrical systems, and Brake Systems.

HVAC — Core, Type 2, and Recovery and Evacuation Certification

Welding:

D1.1 1G Position SMAW

D1.1 2G Position SMAW Pipe

Students from the following high schools participated: Barnesville High School; Buckeye Local High School; Cambridge High School; Indian Creek High School; Jefferson County JVS; Shenandoah High School; St. Clairsville High School; Toronto High School; and Union Local High School.

“This summer program worked to equip graduating high school seniors with the skills, certifications, and hands-on experience they need to jumpstart their careers,” said Keith Kaczor, Director of Industrial Trades at Belmont College. “It was an excellent opportunity for them to gain practical, job-ready skills that can lead directly to employment.”

The program completed on June 27 and a small graduation ceremony was held to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.