HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Coopersville junior and Careerline Tech Center Dental Careers student Katelynn Fritz won first place in dental science at the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) State Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids March 21-22, 2019.
Black River Public School senior Yared Gordillo placed in the top eight in the state in dental terminology, and plans to attend Grand Valley State University in the fall as a pre-dental student.
Grand Haven High School senior Tylee Knieper placed in the top eight in the state in dental science and plans to enter the honors dental hygiene program at Ferris State University in the fall. Fritz intends to pursue a career in dental hygiene upon graduation in 2020.
More than 3,200 students participated in the two-day competition at the Amway Grand Plaza, a contest aiming to support a more-qualified healthcare workforce. Through HOSA, students are able to explore career options, gain real-world experience, and take on a leadership role; all skills employers seek in potential employees, and that colleges and universities look for on applications.
“It was so rewarding to watch Katelynn’s confidence blossom during her time at the Tech Center.” Denise Callaghan, Dental Careers instructor for CTC, said. “Participating in competitions such as HOSA gives Tech Center students opportunities to grow both academically and personally. I’m so proud of all my students.”
Operated by Ottawa Area ISD, Careerline Tech Center prepares high school juniors and seniors for tomorrow’s workforce by providing career and technical education in more than 25 career areas.
CTC serves students from public and private high schools, as well as those who are homeschooled, within the following local school districts: Allendale, Coopersville, Grand Haven, Hamilton, Holland, Hudsonville, Jenison, Saugatuck, Spring Lake, West Ottawa, and Zeeland. www.CareerlineTech.org.
