Lowe's celebrates Belton students entering the trades

May 15, 2025

By Daniel Moctezuma

Belton Journal

Ten Belton High School seniors were celebrated last Tuesday morning as they walked the Lowe’s Foundation “blue carpet” and signed letters of intent to begin careers in the skilled trades.

The event was part of Skills USA’s National Signing Day, hosted locally by the Temple Lowe’s store. Each student is entering a field such as electrical technology or construction, professions currently in high demand across Texas.

“We want students to know this is something to be proud of,” said Temple Lowe’s Store Manager Alex Sisk. “Trades aren’t always highlighted like sports or college decisions, but they should be. These careers build our communities.”

Belton senior Tyler Cook said he first became interested in electrical work after taking a construction class.

“We started doing electrical one day, and I found it really fun,” Cook said. “It was interesting to see how everyday things like switches and lights work and actually get them working your self.”

He credited teacher Michael Carrillo for pushing him and other students to succeed. Cook will begin his apprenticeship with RK Bass Electric.

Many of the students are headed to Texas State Technical College or entering apprenticeships directly with employers. RK Bass Electric Vice President Andy Bass said the company has partnered with Belton ISD for over 15 years and hired more than 20 former students in the last two years.

“These students are already employable in our community,” Bass said. “They’ve learned valuable skills. Now it’s time to get to work.”

Sisk said Lowe’s has committed $50 million over five years through its foundation to support skilled trades education nationwide. Students at Tuesday’s event also received toolkits and gift cards to support their start.

SkillsUSA Region 4 Vice President Jana Kawasmi, a former Belton High student herself, said programs like this make a tangible impact. “SkillsUSA isn’t just about sponsorship,” she said. “It gives students real opportunities to apply their skills in the workforce.”

The event concluded with BISD leaders thanking teachers, families, and industry partners. Superintendent Dr. Malinda Golden reminded the audience of the broader purpose.

“You’re entering a career of purpose and value,” she told the students. “You’re showing all of us that Texas public schools don’t just prepare students for college, but for life.”