Who We Are

SiT History

Students in Training (SIT) was inspired by Charles Patton's formative experiences with computers and mentorship. In 1968, as a high school junior, Charles interned with NASA scientists, working on ARPANET computers. This early exposure to cutting-edge technology and mentoring shaped his passion for teaching and innovation.  In the 1990s, Charles gained expertise in computing and networking through collaborations with professionals like Pete Paquette, who developed vehicle maintenance systems. When Charles began teaching in 1995, he faced a lack of computers in schools. To address this, he and his students began refurbishing donated computers, teaching practical skills in computer repair, networking, and environmental responsibility. In the winter of 2000 Mr. Gordon Hurley donated the first $15,000 to get the program going.
By 2001, the group’s efforts expanded, moving into a donated basement space from Mr. Steve Fuller, who owned Innes Street Drug, to accommodate growing participation and resources. Support from local businesses and donors fueled growth, and by 2005, the organization formalized as a nonprofit named Students in Training. Under Charles’ leadership, SIT became a thriving initiative, helping hundreds of students gain technical skills while promoting mentorship, environmental stewardship, and community impact. 
By 2008, SIT supported over 100 students with a $130,000 budget, earning state recognition, including a visit from Senator Elizabeth Dole. Charles’ dedication to empowering youth and fostering success laid the foundation for SIT’s ongoing mission.  
In 2023, after over a decade of being inactive, Students in Training launched in Granite Quarry, with Director Robert Howell and Program Lead Marcy Clark. The Boys and Girls Club of the Piedmont launched a sister program and together we partnered with the non-profit E-2-D to distribute 300 computers. A distribution event was also held at Hall Gym in Salisbury, NC where we were able to get 100 computers into the hands of community members. Since August of 2023 we have enrolled over 40 new students into our program and have begun making our impact on the local community. The year 2024 brought us the ability to begin offering summer camps in Granite Quarry and the Boys and Girls Club of The Piedmont offered camps in Statesville to Rowan County residents.
In 2025 we moved to our new building, making us more centralized in the county that we serve.