A photo of the new Baldwin Preparatory Academy.
At this week’s meeting, the Point Clear Rotary Club had the pleasure of hearing from Christina Hellmich, the Industry Engagement Director at Baldwin Preparatory Academy, a new and innovative high school set to open in Baldwin County this August. Christina offered our members an exclusive look at how Baldwin Prep is not just opening its doors to students—but opening entirely new pathways to future careers.
Since stepping into her role in early 2024, Christina has served as the essential link between industry and education. In this unique position, she works directly with business leaders, employers, and community stakeholders to align Baldwin Prep’s curriculum with the evolving needs of the workforce. These partnerships provide both funding and insight to ensure students have access to the tools, training, and experiences they need to be successful—not only in the classroom but in their careers.
Christina emphasized that Baldwin Prep was designed from the ground up with industry collaboration in mind. That means career and technical education isn’t a separate track—it’s fully integrated into the academic model. Students will have the opportunity to pursue credentials and certifications in high-demand fields while still earning their high school diploma, giving them a competitive edge whether they go straight into the workforce, pursue college, or do both.
Before joining the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance team, Christina served as the Director of Workforce Development at the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, where she led programs like Youth Leadership and worked closely with schools and employers to address the county’s talent pipeline needs. Her experience in workforce strategy, paired with a passion for youth development, makes her a perfect fit for this groundbreaking new school.
Superintendent Eddie Tyler has called Baldwin Prep “a game changer”—not just for Baldwin County, but for the entire region. The school is open to students outside of Baldwin County as well, through a waiver process, expanding its impact beyond district lines. Facilities are expected to be completed by July 1, with a final inspection later in the month to prepare for the highly anticipated August launch.
Christina shared that excitement is growing as the school gets closer to opening its doors. With cutting-edge classrooms, a curriculum shaped by industry, and a strong focus on future-focused skills, Baldwin Prep is positioned to become a national model for how schools can work with industry—not just alongside it.
We thank Christina for her informative and inspiring presentation and look forward to seeing Baldwin Preparatory Academy flourish as it helps shape the workforce of tomorrow.
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