SPC Hosts 16th Annual WINTO Conference

Photograph Description: A woman stands at the front of a conference room speaking into a handheld microphone, facing a seated audience. Behind her, a large presentation screen displays a slide titled “Apprentice to Industry Leader,” featuring a portrait and a quote attributed to Shalon LeBlanc.

On March 27, St. Philip’s College hosted its 16th annual Wright Into Non-Traditional Occupations (WINTO) Conference, welcoming 175 middle school and high school students for a day focused on career exploration, hands-on learning, and empowerment.

Students from Kennedy High School, Robert Zamora Middle School, Southwest Legacy High School, Southwest High School, and Roosevelt High School attended the event at the college’s Southwest Campus, where they explored career pathways.

“This conference gives students the chance to explore career pathways in industries they might not otherwise encounter,” said Randall Dawson, Vice President for Academic Success, who delivered the welcome address. He noted the conference remains one of the only events of its kind in the Southwest region.

The event featured strong participation from multiple academic departments, including programs within Allied Construction Trades and Manufacturing. Additional areas, including Culinary, Health Information Technology and the Phoenix Middle College also contributed, offering demonstrations, program information and insight into high-wage, high-demand careers.

Students participated in interactive experiences designed to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. Campus tours were also offered throughout the day, giving students an inside look at facilities and programs available at the Southwest Campus.

Community partners played a key role in enhancing the conference experience. Girl with Grit hosted an interactive “Tools of the Trade” workshop, where students learned to use power tools safely while building confidence in their technical skills. Girls Inc. also participated, providing resources and information.

The conference traces its roots back to 2009, when it began as a student-led initiative under the leadership of James Wright, former director of Phoenix Middle College. What started as a small effort to support students in nontraditional programs has since grown into a regional event connecting students with education and workforce opportunities. Although Wright passed away in 2012, his vision continues to shape the program’s mission and impact.

The event also featured a keynote address from Shalon LeBlanc, Apprenticeship, Workforce Development and Education Director for Associated Builders and Contractors South Texas. With nearly three decades of experience in the sheet metal industry, LeBlanc shared her career journey and encouraged students to pursue opportunities in skilled trades.