During the week of May 4–8, 2026, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools CTE and JROTC was proud to join forces with the U.S. Navy for CMS Navy Week — a dynamic, district-wide initiative designed to bring real-world career exploration directly to our students.
Across five action-packed days, Navy personnel visited approximately 19 middle and high schools throughout the district, giving hundreds of CMS students the rare opportunity to engage face-to-face with active military professionals. These weren’t your average classroom presentations — students participated in hands-on, interactive, work-based learning experiences that brought a wide range of naval career pathways to life.
From cutting-edge technology to naval tradition and history, the week covered an impressive breadth of topics that connected directly to students’ academic interests and future goals:
STEM and Technology Students explored how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics power some of the Navy’s most advanced systems and innovations — an eye-opening look at just how far a STEM education can take you.
eSports Navy eSports representatives showcased how competitive gaming and digital strategy play an increasingly relevant role in military training, recruitment, and team-building.
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED / Navy Medicine) Students discovered the vital world of military medicine — from combat casualty care to global humanitarian missions — and the diverse health care careers that support the fleet.
Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC / Weather Center) Navy weather and oceanography specialists demonstrated how environmental science directly impacts naval operations, from forecasting storms at sea to planning mission-critical deployments.
USS Constitution Representatives from America’s Ship of State brought naval history to life, sharing stories of “Old Ironsides” and the enduring legacy of the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
Ceremonial Guard The precision and discipline of the Navy’s Ceremonial Guard offered students a powerful demonstration of military tradition, dedication, and the pride that comes with serving in a ceremonial role.
Hometown Sailors One of the week’s most personal highlights — local Navy sailors from the Charlotte area shared their own journeys from CMS-area schools to service, making the connection between students’ own communities and a life of military service feel immediate and real.
Naval History Students took a deep dive into the history of the U.S. Navy, exploring pivotal moments in American and world history and the role naval forces have played in shaping them.
CMS Navy Week was about more than just introducing students to a branch of the military. These interactions reinforced essential skills that transcend any single career field — scientific thinking, technological literacy, teamwork, and leadership. Students left these experiences with a broader understanding of the world, a stronger sense of what they’re capable of, and a clearer picture of the many paths available to them after graduation.
CMS CTE and JROTC extends our sincere appreciation to the U.S. Navy for their extraordinary collaboration, professionalism, and commitment to investing in the next generation. Events like Navy Week remind us that education doesn’t stop at the classroom door — and that the most meaningful learning happens when community partners show up and open new doors for our students.
We look forward to continuing to build this partnership and creating more opportunities for CMS students to dream big, aim high, and chart their own course.
For more information about CMS Career and Technical Education programs or JROTC opportunities, visit cms.k12.nc.us.
#CMSNavyWeek | #CMSProud | #CareerReadyCMS | #CMSCTE | #CMSJROTC