As a kid growing up in Attleboro, Melissa Murray would spend hours helping her dad as he fixed their family car. She remembers getting under the hood, lending him an extra hand in changing tires, checking fluids, and passing tools- but never in a million years did she picture herself pursuing a career in automotive. In fact, she had no idea what she wanted to do after high school.
“I really had no clue what to do after high school. I was working at a grocery store, then I moved, and I was helping out a friend with their house cleaning business, but it wasn’t a full-time job.”
It was through her mom that she learned about the CTI Automotive Program at Attleboro High School. “She saw it scrolling on Facebook out of nowhere and I applied. I went to the interview, and I didn’t even think that I was going to get in,” says Murray.
Not only did she get into the program, but she excelled from the start.
Ann Montagano, Assistant Director of Career & Technical Education at Attleboro High School, recalls seeing something special in Melissa. “This really seemed to be something she was really passionate about- and we are really passionate about this program. In our program, the instructors are able to cover so much in the curriculum within a fast-paced environment. The students are really coming in to get to work and Melissa was really on a path of conquering and a pivotal moment for her career.”
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She credits her success to the strong support system she found in the program. “It was a very supportive environment,” says Murray. “This is the best opportunity I’ve ever received in my life. I am very grateful.”
Montagno says that the interest in the CTI program is only growing. Since launching in June 2024, the need for skilled trade workers has been evident. The program trains adult learners in automotive technology, welding, HVAC and plumbing.
“There’s definitely a need for these trades, and we know that because we already have a co-op program during the day with area businesses. The outpouring of interest from the business community and local residents has been huge! Since we opened this up last June, we’ve had over 350 applicants. We’ve had folks asking for other programs—like culinary arts—and we’re hoping to expand into medical and electrical programs too.”
Participants in the CTI program come from all walks of life—some are looking for opportunities after being laid off, while others are looking to pivot. “People are really grateful to have this chance—whether to start a career or change careers. A lot of our adult students have been doing something for a while and want a better career and to increase their earning potential. They’re hungry for training.”
The impact of the CTI program is already being felt in the local workforce, with strong job placements and a growing commitment to expanding opportunities. Support systems, including aides and translators, ensure students have the resources to succeed.
“MassHire has been a key partner, helping connect people with job opportunities,” says Ann Montagano. “In addition to technical training, students also gain valuable skills in entrepreneurship, resume writing, interviews, and using platforms like LinkedIn. Every teacher is dedicated to guiding them to the next step in their careers.”
By aligning with the broader Massachusetts workforce ecosystem, the CTI program is helping to meet the region’s growing demand for skilled workers while creating pathways for individuals to secure long-term, sustainable employment.
