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Career and Technical Education in Cherokee County Schools is more than just bookwork and classrooms – it’s about preparing students for real-world success through hands-on experiences.
One of the most impactful ways we do that is through our CTE Internship Program.
As the career development coordinator, my role is to connect students at all five Cherokee County high schools – Andrews, Hiwassee Dam, Murphy, The Early College and The Oaks Academy – with meaningful opportunities that build skills, boost confidence and even open doors to future careers. I want every student to graduate not only with a diploma, but with valuable experience and professional contacts they can carry into the future.
So, what exactly is a CTE internship? It’s a structured, semester-long opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to explore career interests in a real-world setting. Students are placed with a local business, organization or agency and work under the guidance of a mentor while earning course credit – and yes, there’s even an honors option for those who qualify.
This year, Cherokee County Schools had 50 student interns working in a wide variety of fields including healthcare, education, media, technology, finance, animal science, skilled trades and more. We have an ever-growing list of internship sites and are always looking to expand our network of community partners.
We would like to thank all our internship partners we have this year: N.C. DOT, Snowbird Outfitters, Cherokee County Schools Central Office, Ranger Elementary School, Murphy Rehab & Nursing Home, Valley River Dental Carolina Smiles, Cherokee County Health Department, Aegis, Andrews Middle School, Cherokee Scout, Reid Tree Service, Chris Dockery Construction, Kids in Stride, Benchmark, Mountain Ear, Nose and Throat, Erlanger Western Regional Hospital, Steven Aft-State Farm, Andrews Veterinarian Clinic, Cherokee County Schools IT Department, Bats Payroll & Taxes, Cherokee County Clerk of Court, Alpine Animal Hospital, King Ford, Murphy Middle School, Wilson Family Heating and Air, Murphy Elementary, Cedar Cellars, Peachtree Elementary School, Andrews Elementary School, Murphy Middle/High School Choral Department, Murphy Dental Center and Taylor Family Eye Care.
Cherokee County Career & Technical Education Internships could not be possible without these amazing partners.
If you or your child will be a junior or senior next school year and are interested in learning more about this incredible opportunity, please reach out. Email me at dana.anderson@cherokee.k12.nc.us.
CTE internships are not just about preparing for a job – they’re about preparing for life. Through real-world learning, our students are gaining confidence, discovering passions and building futures.
Cherokee County Career & Technical Education: Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow.
The writer is career development coordinator with the Career & Technical Education program in Cherokee County Schools. Email her at dana.anderson@cherokee.k12.nc.us.