DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan Technology Center will host its fifth annual Job Shadow Day on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving students hands-on exposure to real-world careers across the Wiregrass.
Held during Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, Job Shadow Day allows students to step outside the classroom and into local workplaces. The experience is designed to show how skills learned in CTE courses connect directly to jobs used by professionals every day.
Junior and senior students enrolled in CTE programs were invited to apply to participate, with the opportunity to request specific industries and businesses aligned with their future career goals. This year, 108 students have been placed with more than 50 local businesses and organizations.
Students will observe professionals in action, explore workplace environments, and gain firsthand insight into the education, training, and skills needed for their desired career paths.
“The last four years of this event have been incredibly successful and received such positive feedback from our students and business partners. We are excited to see and hear about the experiences this year with our largest group yet,” said Ryan Richards, Career and Technical Education Director for Dothan City Schools. “This event truly changes the lives of the students who participate.”
Following the job-shadowing experience, students will return to campus for a debriefing session. During the session, they will reflect on their day, share perspectives, and discuss how the experience supports their academic and career planning.
Dothan City Schools also recognized the role of local businesses and organizations that make the event possible each year, thanking those across the Wiregrass who host students, mentor them, and help prepare the next generation of the local workforce.
