Aila Boyd
The Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce honored local students and businesses Friday evening at its annual Business Showcase and Registered Apprentice Signing Night, held at Salem RidgeYaks Stadium.
Jacob Moran, a senior at Salem High School pursuing a career in welding, received a $2,000 Foundation Scholarship from the chamber. Gabe Gomez was also named a scholarship recipient.
“Jacob’s dedication to the craft of welding exemplifies exactly the kind of skilled, homegrown talent our community needs to thrive,” said Amanda Livingston, president of the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to invest in his future and look forward to seeing the great work ahead of him.”
The event, held May 9 from 5 to 7 p.m., drew vendors, educators, elected officials and community members to the ballpark to celebrate apprenticeship programs offered by businesses throughout Salem, Roanoke County and Roanoke City. The chamber also recognized a record number of registered apprentices and honored four Teachers of the Year representing all four local school districts.
Salem High School apprentices attended the event alongside school board members, city council members and teachers.
Integer Holdings Corporation and Wheeler Media Solutions served as presenting sponsors. Allen Lawrence and the RidgeYaks organization were also recognized for hosting the celebration.
