Production, operation and manufacturing practices are becoming increasingly technical.  Employers are accelerating the utilization of technology and automation to achieve operational objectives.  Therefore, an increasing emphasis is placed upon hiring employees who have the knowledge, skills and abilities to work and thrive in these environments.

Scholar Technician® was born from the need of our Pickens County industry partners to hire technically developed employees.  Pickens County students are introduced to careers for which technical skills are required.  These skills are taught and honed at the Pickens County Career and Technology Center.  Through mentoring, apprenticeships, and work-based learning opportunities, students further develop skills in their chosen technology.  A premium is placed on students learning to solve problems with both their minds and their hands.

Alliance Pickens annually awards the Pickens County Scholar Technician® of the Year to the Pickens County student who best develops her or his skills in their respective chosen technology.  Dedication to skill development, citizenship and grades are all key indicators.

Upon high school graduation, students are prepared to either go straight into the workforce, where they are prized for their knowledge, skills and abilities, or continue their educations at Tri-County Technical College, Clemson University, Southern Wesleyan University, or other schools of higher education.