Area residents came together Monday to discuss the future of CATEC, which is our area’s technical education center. Val Palamountain of Piedmont Virginia Community College says many of the current offerings are worthwhile, and she believes the cosmetology program has value. PVCC President Frank Friedman says CATEC would be helped if employers know the school uses skill tests that are recognized by industries.  The CATEC board will take up these same issues at its January 21st meeting.