Union County Career and Technology Center

Let's meet LTC. Ruzicka!

How long have you been teaching?
I’m beginning my 4th year at Union County.

What classes are you currently teaching?
I teach four grade levels across three blocks, including:
Required Courses: Army JROTC 1–4
Additional Courses: Military Science 1–4

What inspired you to become a teacher?
Teaching came naturally to me. I see it as sharing knowledge and experience with others. The true reward comes later, when a former student lights up with a smile and remembers something meaningful you taught them.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students build leadership, confidence, discipline, personal responsibility, and teamwork. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” Watching shy students grow into strong, confident leaders is the most rewarding part of my job.

What is your favorite quote – Why?
“Great leadership is like shaving: no matter how well you shaved today, you will have to do it tomorrow.” – Adapted from Reed B. Markham
It reminds me that leadership is a daily commitment to growth, responsibility, and positive influence.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
I met my wife while we were both stationed in Afghanistan.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #JROTC #Leadership

Our Cosmetology students are showcasing their creativity with a Pumpkin Display. Our faculty and staff are invited to stop by, check out the amazing designs, and vote for your favorite pumpkin. 🧡 The votes will determine our 1st Place Winner and Runner-Up!

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #CosmetologyCreatives #BetterToday

Meet Mr. Ketterman!

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

What do you teach?
I teach Building Construction.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
While working in the industry, I trained new employees in finish framing for condo projects. When my former instructor announced his retirement, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to pass on my skills and inspire a new generation to enjoy learning the construction trades.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students learn to read measurements, safely use hand and power tools, and work with materials like wood, sheet metal, brick, and mortar. They also gain basic plumbing and electrical skills.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
I enjoy "The Kingdom Man" by Dr. Tony Evans because it encourages living with purpose, integrity, and faith—values I strive to model for my students every day.

Share a fun fact.
Still thinking of one—but I’m sure many would say I tell the best "Dad" jokes.

We are excited to announce that, in partnership with Spartanburg Community College will host an interest meeting for our new Phlebotomy and EMT Certification programs!
These certifications will equip students with valuable skills and credentials to confidently enter the healthcare workforce.

📅 Interest Meeting
🗓️ Date: October 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Multipurpose Meeting Room - Room 600 (Career Center)

Parents and students are invited to join us to learn more about these new opportunities and how they can help shape a future in healthcare.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #CTE #UCCC

Meet Mrs. Jolly!
How long have you been teaching?

I'm in my 17th year of teaching.

What do you teach?

Sports Medicine 1 & 2 and Medical Terminology

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve always loved helping others, and teaching allows me to give students skills they can use no matter what career they choose. I was also inspired by many of my own teachers who made a lasting impact, and I hope to do the same for my students.

What are some skills that students learn in your class?
Students learn First Aid, CPR, injury assessment, nutrition, medical terminology, emergency planning, and taping/wrapping techniques—along with the importance of compassion.

What is your favorite book, movie, or quote – Why?
Two of my favorite quotes are: “You can’t always choose your circumstances, but you can choose to overcome them.” and “Perhaps you were created for a time such as this.” Both remind me of purpose, resilience, and hope.

Share a fun fact about yourself.
I can’t get through the day without coffee, carbs, and a few good jokes.

#DoingGreatThingsUCSD #BetterToday #SportsMedicine #CTE

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