November Newsletter

#14 NOV | 2023

The Division OF CAREER AND ADULT EDUCATION

NEWSLETTER

TARA GOODMAN INDUCTED INTO ACE HALL OF FAME P4 Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell tours Florida State College at Jacksonville | p14 Event Highlight

Teacher Highlight

Apprenticeship Week

The Jackson County

Colleen Avelli from Lake

Tools to Celebrate

Chamber’s Future of Work

Technical College Named ACE

and Promote National

Florida Education Summit

of Florida Teacher of the Year

Apprenticeship Week.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOVEMBER TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

WELCOME MESSAGE November 13-19, 2023, marks National Apprenticeship Week, and it’s a great time to celebrate the remarkable growth and achievements in Florida’s apprenticeship programs this past year.

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Florida now has nearly 20,000 apprentices and preapprentices, a 14% increase from the previous year.

We’ve introduced 36 new apprenticeship programs, totaling 303, and 12 new preapprenticeship programs, totaling 62.

These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our educators, industry partners, and most notably, our apprentices and preapprentices. Your hard work and determination drive our success.

During Apprenticeship Week, I encourage you to connect, learn and celebrate registered apprenticeships!

Wishing you an exciting Apprenticeship Week 2023 as we continue shaping the future together.

Sincerely, Kathryn Wheeler, Director of Apprenticeship

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WELCOME MESSAGE

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TEACHER HIGHLIGHT

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APPRENTICESHIP WEEK

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RECENT NEWS

Kathryn Wheeler, Director of Apprenticeship, Brings Warm Wishes this Apprenticeship Week

ACE HALL OF FAME

Celebrating the Achievements of Tara Goodman being inducted into the ACE Hall of Fame

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

Celebrating the Success of the Jackson County Chamber’s Future of Work Florida Education Summit Colleen Avelli from Lake Technical College Named ACE of Florida Teacher of the Year

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT Paving the Way for a Resilient Workforce in Healthcare

Tools to Celebrate and Promote National Apprenticeship Week

COLLEGE HIGHLIGHT

Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell tours Florida State College of Jacksonville Facilities

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

Senior Chancellor Kim Richey and Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell participate in the Florida Broadband Summit Read More About the Recent Investments in Workforce Education

SOCIAL SHOUTOUTS

Institutions and Partners Across the State are Sharing and Promoting CTE

UPCOMING EVENTS

Learn More About Upcoming Observances that Highlight CTE

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

DCAE STAFF HIGHLIGHT

Celebrating a Remarkable Achievement: Tara Goodman Inducted into ACE of Florida Hall of Fame

By Kevin O’Farrell, Chancellor for the Division of Career and Adult Education At the ACE of Florida Annual Meeting held last month, our very own Vice Chancellor of the Division of Career and Adult Education (DCAE), Tara Goodman, was officially inducted into the ACE of Florida Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition acknowledges her years of unwavering dedication to advancing the mission of adult education and student success.

For those of you who know Tara Goodman, you’re well aware of her incredible professionalism and her unwavering commitment to providing students, educators and community leaders with accurate knowledge, guidance and insight.

Her contributions have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of adult and community education in Florida.

ACE of Florida strives to be a beacon, representing, promoting, and advocating for adult and community education professionals and volunteers. This

organization is deeply committed to the ongoing improvement and expansion of adult and community education programs and services throughout the state.

Tara’s induction into the ACE of Florida Hall of Fame is a testament to her exceptional leadership and service at the Florida Department of Education’s DCAE. We couldn’t be more proud of her remarkable accomplishments and are delighted to see her receive this pinnacle recognition.

The fact that everyone managed to keep it a surprise only adds to the joy of this moment.

Let’s join together in celebrating Tara’s welldeserved achievement and the positive impact she has made on adult education and student success in Florida. Her legacy will continue to inspire us all as we work toward providing the best educational opportunities for our community.

DCAE STAFF HIGHLIGHT

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

(L-R) Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell, Vice Chancellor Tara Goodman and Director of Adult Education, Ashley Yopp

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

Celebrating the Success of the Jackson County Chamber’s Future of Work Florida Education Summit Submitted by the Florida Department of Education We’re excited to share the success of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce’s recent event, the “Future of Work Florida Education Summit,” co-hosted with the Washington, Holmes and Calhoun County chambers of commerce. This event, held on September 7 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Rivertown Community Church, brought together stakeholders, thought leaders and business professionals to explore the ever-evolving landscape of education and workforce trends.

The event’s curriculum drew inspiration from our “Summit in a Box” concept, ensuring a comprehensive and relevant discussion about the Future of Work and education in Florida. With a focus on bridging the gap between education and industry, the summit featured distinguished speakers who shared invaluable insights.

One of the standout speakers at the event was Rachel Ludwig, representing the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

Her expertise and knowledge in workforce trends provided attendees with a deeper understanding of the dynamics shaping the state’s labor market.

The Future of Work Florida Education Summit also served as a platform to showcase the local Career and Tech Pathways, highlighting dual enrollment

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

certification programs and Chipola College’s accessible tech degrees. This not only celebrated the initiatives and programs available in the region, but also provided a glimpse into the opportunities for local students and professionals to upskill and adapt to the ever-changing job market.

The success of this event underlines the commitment of the Jackson County Chamber, along with its co-hosting chambers, to fostering innovation and collaboration in the region.

By bringing together industry leaders, educational institutions and legislative voices, the summit laid the groundwork for a future in which education and workforce trends in Florida can continue to evolve in

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harmony.

In a world where staying ahead of workforce trends is essential, events like the Future of Work Florida Education Summit play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of education and employment.

This successful gathering has not only sparked meaningful conversations but also opened doors to new possibilities for the Future of Work in Florida. We look forward to more such events that drive progress and collaboration in the years to come.

If you are interested in hosting or being a part of a Summit in a Box in your community, visit summitinaboxfl.com to learn more.

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

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TEACHER HIGHLIGHT

(L-R) Dr. Danielle DeConcilio, Director, Ridge Technical College - Adult Education; Executive Director of ACE, Julie Roberts; President of ACE, Mary Keen; ACE Florida Teacher of the Year, Colleen Avelli; Senior Chancellor Kimberly Richey; Director of Adult Education, Ashley Yopp; and Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell

TEACHER HIGHLIGHT

Colleen Avelli Named ACE of Florida Teacher of the Year Submitted by the Florida Department of Education Colleen Avelli, an instructor at Lake Tech Adult Education, was awarded the distinguished title of ACE of Florida Teacher of the Year at the 33rd Annual Conference. This prestigious recognition is not just a reflection of her own hard work and commitment but also an acknowledgment of her profound contributions to the field of adult education.

TEACHER HIGHLIGHT

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A Passion for Lifelong Learning Ms. Avelli’s career has been marked by an unwavering dedication to adult education.

She possesses a profound passion for enabling adult learners to pursue knowledge, acquire new skills and enhance their career prospects. Her teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that education is a lifelong journey, and she is committed to ensuring that every one of her students is equipped to thrive on their journey.

Community Impact Colleen’s impact extends well beyond the confines of the classroom. She has become an integral figure in the world of adult education, actively participating in initiatives that advocate for the importance of adult education. Her dedication to her local community and the broader educational landscape has made a lasting impression.

In celebrating Colleen Avelli’s achievement as the ACE of Florida Teacher of the Year, we also recognize the vital role that educators like her play in society. Their unwavering commitment, boundless passion and innovative teaching methods set the stage for lifelong learning and personal growth. By transforming lives, they contribute significantly to the betterment of individuals, communities and society as a whole.

ACE Florida Teacher of the Year, Colleen Avelli

Colleen Avelli’s recognition is not just a personal achievement; it symbolizes the vital role of adult education and the educators who champion it.

We congratulate Colleen and express our gratitude for her unwavering dedication to shaping the future of adult education.

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT

Paving the Way for a Resilient Workforce in Healthcare By the Florida Department of Education Across the nation, a glaring issue looms large—the shortages of healthcare professionals. In the midst of this challenge, a unique program has emerged, offering a fresh approach to address the healthcare worker shortages.

For years, students have endured lengthy, traditional classes that often seem irrelevant to their career development. The financial burden imposed by expensive training programs requiring unpaid clinical externships has become an unfortunate norm. It is a system that has proven to be highly ineffective in strengthening and sustaining our future healthcare workforce.

This program is not here to deter but to attract both current healthcare professionals and aspiring individuals into the field of surgical technology.

It provides an alternative route to certification and employment, all while nurturing highly-skilled members of the surgical team. This refreshing approach stands in stark contrast to the more conventional, expensive, and academically focused training routes.

The benefits of such an apprenticeship program are numerous, both for individuals seeking career development and employers in desperate need of skilled personnel.

As healthcare organizations grapple with staffing shortages, this program steps in to bridge the gap.

One notable partnership that exemplifies the program’s potential is the collaboration with Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. This partnership marks a significant step in the right direction. It not only highlights the willingness of healthcare institutions to embrace innovative solutions but also serves as a practical example of what can be achieved when forward-thinking minds unite.

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

The program’s first cohort of 10 apprentices commenced their journey in August, breathing life into a new era of healthcare training. This fresh approach to education and skill development is paving the way for a more resilient healthcare workforce, capable of meeting the evergrowing demands of the industry.

The challenges facing our healthcare sector are real, but with programs like this registered apprenticeship initiative, a silver lining is emerging. It’s a testament to the power of innovative thinking and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, change can come to the rescue. As the

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program progresses and expands, it is sure to make a significant impact in alleviating healthcare workforce shortages, offering a brighter future for both healthcare professionals and those in need of their services.

Learn more at www.employ-health.org/.

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT

NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK TOOLKIT Celebrated each November, National Apprenticeship Week (November 13-19, 2023) is a time to recognize the instrumental role registered apprenticeship programs play in building Florida’s skilled workforce and, in turn, bolstering our local and state economies.

Registered apprenticeship programs are a proven solution for businesses to recruit, train and retain highly skilled workers. Meanwhile, registered apprentices earn wages while learning skills specific to their occupation and employer.

A partnership between the Florida Department of Education, CareerSource Florida and the Florida Department of Commerce, Apprentice Florida provides businesses with information and resources to establish or expand registered apprenticeship programs.

Please use the resources in this toolkit to tell your audiences how Apprentice Florida offers businesses and job seekers a win-win workforce development solution this National Apprenticeship Week.

APPRENTICESHIP HIGHLIGHT

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

DOWNLOAD THE ASSETS HERE

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

COLLEGE HIGHLIGHT

COLLEGE HIGHLIGHT

Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell Visits Florida State College at Jacksonville (L-R) Dr. Credrick Gibson; Tommy Dutrrieux; Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell and Joe Lackey

Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell recently visited the Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ.) The college’s dedication to fostering innovation and providing a practical, forward-thinking education was very prevalent.

During his tour of the college, Chancellor O’Farrell delved into the engineering and technology programs, going beyond the conventional classroom setting, emphasizing hands-on learning experiences.

State-of-the-art laboratories, interactive

workshops and innovative teaching methods formed the core of these programs.

A standout moment of the visit was the introduction of the college’s first-of-itskind AI vehicle. This fusion of artificial intelligence and automotive technology exemplified the college’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and preparing students for the ever-evolving job market.

After touring the downtown campus, Chancellor O’Farrell went on to explore

COLLEGE HIGHLIGHT

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

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the aviation and truck driving programs.

The aviation mechanic program, housed in a hangar, was a striking example of how practical education can be integrated into academic settings.

What truly set this program apart was the tradition of students walking across the stage, receiving certificates and shaking hands with their future employers. This powerful image highlighted the strong connections the college has formed with industry partners, underscoring its dedication to ensuring its graduates find meaningful employment.

Chancellor O’Farrell also explored the college’s truck driving facility. This facility offered an entirely different perspective on how technical education can empower students in a unique way.

The comprehensive training programs here prepare students for careers in the transportation industry, focusing on developing practical skills. This ensures that graduates are job-ready from day one, and they can smoothly transition into the workforce, showcasing the college’s commitment to producing well-prepared professionals.

The college’s dedication to innovation and its emphasis on hands-on learning create an environment for the development of well-rounded professionals. Educational

(L-R) Dr. Sheri Litt; Dr. Doug Bauer; Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell and Dr. John Wall

institutions can play a pivotal role in shaping the future by aligning education with the ever-evolving demands of the modern world.

FSCJ, in this regard, serves as an inspiring example, lighting the path to success for countless individuals in pursuit of a brighter future.

We want to thank Dr. John Avendano, President of FSCJ and Dr. John Wall, Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs for arranging these efforts.

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

Senior Chancellor Kimberly Richey and Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell Share Insights at the Florida Broadband Summit The Florida Broadband Summit, hosted by the Florida Department of Commerce in partnership with CareerSource Florida, brought together industry leaders, government officials, workforce and economic development professionals and community advocates to discuss the expansion of broadband and its impact on Florida’s infrastructure, business and job growth.

Senior Chancellor Kimberly Richey and Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell participated in a panel discussion, emphasizing the pivotal role CTE programs play

in nurturing talent that aligns with the evolving needs of the broadband industry. This alignment ensures a steady pipeline of skilled professionals who can effectively contribute to the development and maintenance of a robust digital infrastructure across the state.

The summit marked a significant milestone in Florida’s journey to prepare the next generation for success in an increasingly digital world. It underscored the Sunshine State’s dedication to ensuring that all students are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century.

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

RECENT NEWS

FLORIDA MAKES REMARKABLE STRIDES IN APPRENTICESHIP AND PREAPPRENTICESHIP ~ 14% increase in total number of active apprentices and preapprentices ~ Tallahassee, Fla., September 15, 2023 – Today, Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. announced historic participation in Florida’s apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs, with a 14% increase in the active number of apprentices and preapprentices since this time last year. Florida added 36 new registered apprenticeship programs and more than 5,000 new active apprentices, with a record 19,605 individuals now serving as apprentices or preapprentices in the state.

Read more >>

FLORIDA SEES 45% INCREASE IN REGISTERED APPRENTICES SINCE DESANTIS TOOK OFFICE TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The sunshine state has seen remarkable growth and interest in its apprenticeship programs as Florida seeks to build its skilled workforce.

Florida’s Voice learned there has been a 45% increase in the number of registered apprentices since Gov. Ron DeSantis took office in 2019, according to the Florida Department of Education.

Read more >>

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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

SOCIAL SHOUTOUTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER 13-19, 2023 IS NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK National Apprenticeship Week is a time to recognize the instrumental role registered apprenticeship programs play in building Florida’s skilled workforce and, in turn, bolstering our local and state economies.

NOVEMBER 27 IS THE ADULT EDUCATION QUARTERLY WEBINAR These quarterly webinars serve as a point of contact between the Division of Career and Adult Education and the educators, administrators, and staff of postsecondary institutions.

DECEMBER 2 IS SPECIAL EDUCATION DAY Special Education Day is celebrated on December 2 to commemorate the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act into law on this day in 1975 (IDEA). IDEA granted access to children with special needs to free and quality public education.

DECEMBER 11 IS THE POSTSECONDARY QUARTERLY WEBINAR These quarterly webinars serve as a point of contact between the Division of Career and Adult Education and the educators, administrators, and staff of postsecondary institutions.

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