Sumter County Schools has recognized a senior at The Villages High School as the CTE Student of the Month for October 2025.
Colten Hill has demonstrated exceptional commitment and achievement in his Career and Technical Education journey, thriving both academically and personally.
This year, he culminated a seven-year dedication to learning in the field of agriculture. He has been involved in Agriculture CTE courses since sixth grade, all of which have prepared him for a career in the agricultural industry. His passion for livestock and hands-on learning is evident through his active involvement at the school’s ag farm, where he works during class and after school.
“I enjoy working with livestock and learning new management techniques,” said Colten. “I am always learning in this program.”
Before graduating, Colten plans to earn an Animal Science Specialist Certification. He has already earned several certifications in his Sumter CTE classes, including:
- ICT Multimedia Essentials
- ICT Communications Essentials
- ICT Cybersecurity Essentials
- Agriculture Systems Associate Certification
- Agriculture Associate Certification
- Social Media Strategist
- Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation and Management Certification
- Agritechnology Specialist Certification
- Entrepreneurship and Small Business
After high school, Colten plans to attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to pursue a degree in agriculture with a focus on livestock management. His long-term goal is to manage his family’s cattle ranch in Lake City.
His leadership is evident in his role as 2025–2026 VHS FFA Chapter vice president. He also earned Reserve Grand Champion in the 2025 Gulf Coast Cattle Invitational Show and Sale – AOB Steer category, showcasing his livestock management skills.
Teachers and peers describe Colten as a team player—motivated, organized, respectful and a strong communicator with a consistently positive attitude.
“CTE has helped me build the skills I need to succeed in agriculture and given me real experience working with animals and managing farm operations. I’m grateful for the opportunities it’s provided and excited to take what I’ve learned into my future career,” said Colten.
Colten embodies the values of Sumter’s Agriculture CTE program. His dedication, leadership and passion for agriculture make him a deserving recipient of this recognition.
