Over 200 people gathered on September 18, 2025 to witness the opening of the new state-of-the-art Career and Technical Education Center at Thomas R. Proctor High School.
Community partners, local elected officials, school board members and teachers came together to celebrate this incredible achievement. This transformative addition marks a significant milestone in the Utica City School District’s commitment to preparing all students for future success through hands-on, real-world learning. Aligned with the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, the new center fosters communication, collaboration and critical thinking while supporting equitable access to high-quality learning experiences for every student.
As part of a comprehensive K-12 CTE initiative, the facility connects students to high-demand industries through specialized pathways, internships and pre-apprenticeships—strengthened by meaningful partnerships with local businesses, colleges and community organizations. Together, we are building a stronger future where every student is empowered to thrive in a diverse and evolving workforce.
A New Chapter in Education
The Utica City School District has partnered with more than 250 local businesses and organizations to create 12 career pathways that prepare Proctor students for the workforce. The goal is to build the skills they need to land a great job right here in our community. Construction began with a groundbreaking in May 2024, and in September of 2025 a ribbon cutting marked the on-schedule completion of the new CTE addition.
