Union County Career and Technology Center

How long have you been teaching? I've been teaching for 33 years.

What do you teach? I teach Project Lead the Way: Pre-Engineering Design and Principles of Engineering at the Career Center. I also teach Chemistry at the High School.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve always loved science—experimenting in the lab, designing, and building. Teaching allows me to share that passion every day and inspire students to pursue careers in chemistry and engineering.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students learn problem-solving, experiment design, perseverance, and how to work through challenges with determination.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” This verse reminds me to rely on faith and strength in all I do.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
I love the outdoors! Whether it’s hiking, mountain trails, or kayaking across the water, I enjoy the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #CTE #BetterToday #UCCC

We are excited to share that our Health Science program has received a generous donation of healthcare training equipment valued at over $20,000, thanks to the support of Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System and the Spartanburg Regional Foundation.

The donation includes advanced tools to enhance hands-on learning for our students:

Susie Simon® Nursing Patient Care Simulator with Ostomy – an adult manikin designed to help students practice and develop essential nursing clinical skills.

VS 9 Vital Signs Monitor – a comprehensive tool that provides flexible workflow options, allowing students to learn how clinicians deliver high-quality bedside care.

This equipment mirrors what is used in professional healthcare settings, giving our students authentic training experiences that will prepare them for success in future healthcare careers.

We are deeply grateful to Spartanburg Regional for investing in our students and strengthening our community’s future workforce.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CareerReady #HealthScience

We’d love to connect with you!
Join us at Elle Bell Cafe on September 24, 2 pm. to 4 pm for casual conversation and community connection. This is a great opportunity for parents and community members to meet our faculty and staff, ask questions, and learn more about the exciting things happening at our school.

Come share a cup of coffee with us—we look forward to seeing you there!

#BetterToday #CommunityStrong #CoffeeAndConversation #DoingGreatThingsUCSD

A big thank you to our Chamber of Commerce and Development Board for visiting our students today for the CTE Roundtable Lunch & Learn Session!
They shared valuable insight into local career opportunities and the importance of preparing for the future workforce.
#CommunityPartners #DoingGreatThingsUCSD #CTE #BetterToday

Let's get to know Mrs. Gregory!

How long have you been teaching?
This is my 9th year teaching.

What are you currently teaching?
I am currently teaching Accounting I, Advanced Personal Finance, and Business Finance.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve wanted to teach since I was a little girl. After working in banking and insurance, I realized I could bring real-world experiences into the classroom. I also wanted to show students that it’s okay to start over and pursue a career that makes you happy.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students learn financial skills like writing checks, balancing accounts, paying bills, saving, investing, and creating financial reports. They also build employability skills such as communication, teamwork, initiative, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
“Talent might make you good, but it’s your attitude and work ethic that will make you great.” – Allistar McCain. This quote reminds me—and I hope inspires my students—that talent alone isn’t enough. With hard work and the right mindset, you can achieve great things.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
I have two sons and five nephews—four of them are twins! One set is 12 years old, and the other set is 21.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterTogether #CTE

Upcoming Events
Stay tuned! We have several exciting events coming up. Be sure to mark your calendars and join us as we continue to celebrate learning, growth, and community.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #SchoolEvents #CommunityStrong

Let's get to know Mr. Gardner!

How long have you been teaching?
I'm currently in my 4th year.

What classes are you currently teaching?
I am teaching Ag. Science & Technology, Ag. Mechanics, Equipment Operations & Maintenance, and Ag. Business.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I was inspired by my high school Ag teacher, Mike Haynes. Growing up on a small farm and being active in FFA, I developed a deep connection with the lessons and discovered a passion for agriculture and leadership.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students gain hands-on experience with tools, plant identification, and agricultural math. They also develop communication and public speaking skills, all while learning how to become the best version of themselves.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
“Some folks are just luckier than others.” – The Old Man and the Boy by Robert Ruark. This book highlights outdoor adventures between a boy and his grandfather. The quote reminds me that not everything comes easily—some things must be earned through hard work.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
I’m a self-proclaimed “bird nerd.” Since becoming a father, I’ve developed a passion for listening to and identifying wild birds while enjoying the outdoors.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE

Hands-On Learning in Auto Collision 🚗🔧
Our Auto Collision students have been hard at work gaining real-world skills in the shop. Recently, they’ve been learning about steering and suspension systems while installing a small lift kit. Additionally, students practiced techniques for restoring headlights, a crucial skill for both safety and aesthetics.

Through hands-on projects like these, students are building the knowledge and experience they’ll need for successful careers in the automotive industry.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE #UCCC

Let's get to know Mrs. Floyd-Parks.

How long have you been teaching?
I am currently in my 18th year of teaching.

What classes are you currently teaching?
I'm currently teaching Digital Literacy, Discovering Computer Science, and Jacket Pathways.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
While tutoring local students at Winthrop University, I witnessed firsthand how education can build confidence and open doors. That experience showed me the impact teachers can have on their communities, and I knew I wanted to be part of that transformation.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students develop communication and networking skills, learn to use computers for research, gain hands-on experience with Microsoft applications, and explore the basics of drag-and-drop coding.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
“You are the most important person you know. It is up to you to define your success and go get it.” – I love this quote because it reminds students that they are the driving force in their own journey.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
My birthday is November 10th, which I share with Ellen Pompeo, Neil Gaiman, Miranda Lambert, Sinbad, and Tracy Morgan—so depending on the day, I might be dramatic, creative, musical, or funny!

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #UCCTE #UCCC

Guest Speaker Spotlight

The Jacket Pathways students had the opportunity to hear from Dr. Ivey, who shared her inspiring journey to the guidance office and gave insight into her current responsibilities. She also connected her work to the Human Services and Education Clusters, helping students see real-world career pathways.

Together, we explored the value of networking—building connections, meeting new people, and discovering how relationships can open doors both personally and professionally.

We’re grateful to Dr. Ivey for investing in our students and showing them the power of relationships in shaping their future! 🌟

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday