After more than five decades at the same school, Saginaw Career Complex Work-based Learning Coordinator Patricia Votruba is retiring, closing an extraordinary chapter of service to Saginaw Public Schools.
Votruba was recognized during the district’s retirement ceremony on Thursday, May 28, after dedicating 53.1 years to Saginaw Career Complex — a career that began shortly after the building first opened in 1972.
“They’d just finished building it and I came and I actually interviewed for the childcare program, but my expertise was in nursing,” Votruba recalled.
What followed was more than a career. It became a lifelong commitment to career and technical education and to helping students discover opportunities and pathways for their future.
Over the years, Votruba helped build and expand programs at SCC, wrote curriculum, supported students entering careers, and witnessed generations of students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities.
“It’s been amazing,” she said.
Though humble about her impact, Votruba spoke passionately about the importance of career and technical education and the opportunities available to students through Saginaw Career Complex.
“I believe every student in the district needs to go through an SCC program,” she said. “We have so much to offer and it’s a fantastic opportunity.”
Throughout her career, she remained committed not only to students, but to the continued growth of the Career Complex itself.
“I wanted to see it grow and I’m very, very honored and pleased to have been a big part of it,” Votruba said.
Saginaw Public Schools thanks Patricia Votruba for her remarkable dedication, leadership, and more than 53 years of service to students and families throughout the community.