Franklin Tech Marks 50 Years of Vocational Education

September 21, 2026 - 17:36

Franklin County Technical School celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday with various campus activities and alumni gatherings.

Former students walked the halls they once knew, sharing memories of shop classes, late nights finishing projects, and the teachers who shaped their careers. The event drew graduates from every decade, some traveling long distances to reconnect with classmates and see how the school has changed.

Current students led tours of updated workshops, showing off modern equipment in programs like welding, culinary arts, and automotive technology. Many alumni noted how much the campus has grown since their time there, yet said the hands-on spirit remains the same.

School officials spoke about the role the school has played in the region, training generations of skilled workers who stayed local and built careers in trades, healthcare, and technical fields. A commemorative ceremony honored retired instructors and staff members who helped establish the school's reputation.

The day included a cookout, photo displays from past years, and a chance for families to visit classrooms together. Organizers said the turnout reflected how much the school means to the community. Planning for the next reunion is already underway, with hopes of bringing back even more graduates.