Build The Future

Build The

Future Written by: Top of Virginia Regional Chamber Area students will have a new way to stretch their minds and explore handson learning this fall when the Emil and Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center reopens the doors that once belonged to John Kerr Elementary. The colorful space will allow education in advanced technologies, health sciences, and professional skills with a work-based learning program attached to each academy beginning in the 2021-2022 school year for Handley High School students during the day. In addition, soon-to-be Laurel Ridge Community College will be using the facilities in the evening to provide certification programs for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC trades. Work-ready skills are already in high demand as employers struggle to meet staffing requirements. The Emil and Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center looks to develop marketable certifications for youth and adults to meet the needs of our regional job market. A September 2020 released Occupational Outlook Handbook from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projected employment to grow by 6 million jobs by 2029. Healthcare industries are expected to account for a large share of the growth as five of the ten fastest-growing occupations are medically related. However, the labor force is projected to dwindle, especially when it comes to skilled technical labor. Employment opportunities

Emil and Grace Shihadeh have inspired many children throughout many states and the Emil and Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center in Winchester, Virginia looks to carry on that legacy of excellence as we look towards the future of Workforce Development and Career and Technical Education.

are expected to grow by 3.7%, while the labor force is projected to shrink by 1.9% by 2029. This shift reflects the baby boomer population reaching retirement age. Currently, trades depend on that population as the average tradesmen is 55 years old. This collision course will have a significant impact on our economy. The manufacturing industry is expected to see the most significant decline in available workers, forcing them to consider alternative methods such as robotics to keep up with demands.

Students will work with a wide variety of innovative equipment and real-world scenarios that allow for soft skills to develop as educators prioritize Career and Technical Education (CTE). The Advanced Technologies Academy will feature cybersecurity, network engineering, a programable robotic arm, and 3D printers to inspire the innovations that the workforce will need. The Valley Health System Health Sciences Academy provides hospital beds, practice headwalls, and a simulation ambulance to prepare students for the significant increase in the healthcare industry. The Professional Skills Academy offers a carpentry lab, welding, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. High school students will graduate with certifications that allow them to find gainful employment immediately.

This hands-on learning opportunity has proven successful for retention and graduation rates nationally. In 2012, the national graduation average was 80 percent, where CTE programs graduated at a rate of 93 percent, according to the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. CTE programs work to build problem-solving and collaboration skills that provide versatility when looking for careers. However, what may be more valuable to students than the skills they learn is the pride and confidence in themselves that they graduate with.

It is fitting that the John Kerr building was renovated to provide this space to learn as many adults are using continuing education to provide new opportunities for their careers.

“If everyone is a lawyer or investment banker, who is going to be around to build things?” Emil Shihadeh

Built in 1972, the building’s open concept now provides a flexible space for students and teachers. There are no bells that will ring to send students to their next class. Instead, students will have ownership in how their time is spent. Renovating what was an outdated facility for children has created a cutting-edge environment for innovation. This renovation parallels Emil Shihadeh’s personal story. Emil learned to weld in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After learning this trade, he was able to use those skills when he returned home from duty. In 1973, he became a teacher of metal fabrication. His programs developed children who were considered at-risk that graduated achieving the highest proficiency ratings in industry standards. Students found value in their skills, and therefore, they invested more of themselves into their education.

The Emil and Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center will welcome students on Thursday, August 19, 2021.