Ridgecroft senior commits to Nucor Technical Academy

Published 11:19 am Sunday, June 2, 2019

AHOSKIE – Shelton M. Batts, a graduating senior at Ridgecroft School, was selected to attend the Nucor Technical Academy in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Batts recently signed his commitment letter, with a scholarship package totaling around $150,000.

Shelton Batts (seated) is pictured with his mom, Laura Batts (Ridgecroft alumna), and Ridgecroft Headmaster Melvin Hawkins. Contributed Photo

The Nucor Technical Academy is a three-year schooling and training program hosted by Nucor Tuscaloosa and Shelton State Community College. Each class is made up of 20-30 people who have been carefully selected from difference divisions around the country. Students will attend Shelton State and work at the mill for a combination of 40 hours per week.

After successfully completing the program, Batts will have earned an Associates of Applied Science Degree in Electrical Technology and a guaranteed job with the Nucor Electrical Maintenance team. The scholarship package includes tuition, books, tools, fees, housing, travel/moving expenses and hourly wages for time spent in the classroom and at the plant.

“All of us at Ridgecroft are very excited for Shelton to have this opportunity,” said Claire Abshire, Director of Development and Marketing at Ridgecroft School. “Shelton went through a series of interviews and applications before being chosen as a recipient and it speaks volumes of his work ethic and character to be chosen. We are so proud that he’s a Ridgecroft Ram.”

Batts will be sponsored by Nucor Hertford County, where he will work upon completion of the Technical Academy.