The Master Skills Center is a vocational school now available to students in Spartanburg School District One.

One of the courses offered is Heavy Equipment Level I. Junior Declan Shensky is currently the only student in the district enrolled in the program.

Shensky said he enjoys the structure of the course.

“I like the course, and the instructor treats it like a job, which is good,” Shensky said. “That way everyone in the class can learn.”

The Master Skills Center offers industry certifications that allow students to enter the workforce directly after high school.

Shensky said that opportunity played a major role in his decision to enroll.

“It’s great that I can do this for the rest of my high school career,” Shensky said. “When I get out, I don’t have to worry about what college to go to or paying student loans or debt.”

In addition to heavy equipment, the Master Skills Center offers programs in HVAC, plumbing and barbering.

Shensky said his family influenced his interest in the field.

“My dad worked construction when he was younger, and my mom started her own successful business,” Shensky said. “I want to work for the SCDOT, save money, get my own equipment and hopefully start a successful business like my parents.”