The Darke County I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards proudly recognize outstanding high school juniors and seniors who are excelling in work-based learning programs across the county. These students are demonstrating exceptional ability to apply classroom knowledge in real-world work environments while preparing for successful careers.
The I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards not only honor student achievement, but also highlight the critical collaboration between students, schools, and local business partners. These partnerships play a vital role in developing a skilled workforce and supporting the long-term economic growth of Darke County.
This year’s winners represent a wide range of career pathways including healthcare, skilled trades, automotive, business, public service, and entrepreneurship. Through internships, pre-apprenticeships, capstone programs, and student-run businesses, these students are gaining valuable hands-on experience, industry certifications, and employability skills.
Students recognized include:
- Brayden Freeman – Arcanum High School & Miami Valley CTC / Calvin Electric
- Casey Jones – Bradford High School & Upper Valley Career Center / Village of Bradford
- Christian McDowell – Greenville High School / Transportation Department
- Cody Werling – Arcanum High School / Prime Time Pressure Washing
- Cole Williams – Versailles High School / Acumen Building Solutions
- Eden Frazee – Arcanum High School & Miami Valley CTC / Garbig, Schmidt & Pohlman
- Emma Rose – Tri-Village High School / Brethren Retirement Community
- Gavinn Simons – Versailles High School / AL Smith Trucking
- Jacob Groff – Versailles High School / Groff Mowing & Lawn Care
- Owen Rindler – Versailles High School/ Knapke Kitchen & Bath
- Sophia Drew – Arcanum High School & Miami Valley CTC / Family Health Dental
- Skyler Osborne – Greenville High School / Wayne HealthCare, JAFE
- Will Hartzell – Greenville High School / O’Reilly Auto Parts
“These students are a direct reflection of what happens when education and industry come together with purpose,” said Olivia Schitmeyer, Career Connections Coordinator. “They are not only gaining skills—they are building confidence, discovering career pathways, and making meaningful contributions to our local workforce today.”
“The I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards highlight the importance of real-world learning experiences in preparing our future workforce,” added Denise Elsas, Workforce Specialist. “These partnerships between schools and employers are essential to ensuring students graduate with the skills, experience, and direction needed to succeed right here in our community.”
These students exemplify the mission of the I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards by demonstrating strong work ethic, technical skill development, and a commitment to their future careers. Many winners have already earned industry-recognized credentials, accumulated hundreds to thousands of work hours, and secured employment opportunities after graduation.
The Darke County I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the importance of career readiness, hands-on learning, and community collaboration in shaping the future workforce.
For more information about the I.G.N.I.T.E. Awards, please contact Darke County Economic Development at 937.548.3250.
