Norristown, PA | 29 May 2024 – Norristown Area High School senior Derik Tellez-Castro has been accepted into the highly competitive Williamson College of the Trades, a fully-funded, three-year postsecondary institution located in Media, Pennsylvania.
Each year, Williamson College of the Trades admits only about 100 students nationwide to join its rigorous, character-based education model. Derik’s acceptance is a significant accomplishment and a testament to his commitment to both academics and skilled trades.
“Mr. Akbar from Williamson came to my class and told us about the program, and I applied right away. It was a big surprise that I was accepted into the program. I am very excited and grateful” says Derik.
In addition to his achievements at Norristown Area High School, Derik is also enrolled in Central Montco Technical High School’s Collision Repair Program, where he has demonstrated strong technical skills, discipline, and leadership potential.
Founded in 1888, Williamson College of the Trades is the only institution in the United States that offers full scholarships covering tuition, room, and board. The college provides a structured learning environment centered on personal discipline, technical mastery, and leadership development.
Derik plans to further his studies in the trades and join a proud tradition of young professionals graduating from Williamson with industry-ready skills and values that lead to long-term success. The school reports a 98% job placement rate within six months of graduation and a 71% graduation rate, making it a strong launching point for promising careers in trades such as carpentry, electrical, masonry, and machine tool technology.
Dr. Detrick McGriff, Principal of Norristown Area High School says, “It is always great when a student's hard work pays off. Derik has been very diligent in his work at the Central Montco Technical High School and his skills have now been transferred to this wonderful opportunity at Williamson. I wish him much success!”
To learn more about Williamson College of the Trades, visit www.williamson.edu.