Fleet Week and Aviation Technology Day at Miami Dade College | p4
Tech College Highlight
Tiny Home Project Brings RealWorld Experience Directly to Campus
Highlight
County Aviation Day
Student Highlight Student Success Story: Brian Lopez p10
Kelly Rogers Director of Vocational Rehabilitation
WELCOME MESSAGE
As we observe Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) this October, we proudly highlight the incredible contributions individuals with disabilities make to Florida’s economy. Career and Technical Education (CTE) plays a critical role in this by equipping all students, including those with disabilities, with the skills they need for success in the workforce. For every dollar invested in vocational rehabilitation, approximately $10 is returned to local communities—demonstrating the powerful impact of supporting meaningful career opportunities for all.
We’re also excited to welcome Kelly Rogers as our new Director of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). With her extensive leadership experience in the Department of Health, Kelly will continue driving efforts to support individuals with disabilities in achieving their career goals.
For more on partnering with local VR teams, visit www.rehabworks.org/customers/contact.html.
Thank you for your dedication to this important work.
Sincerely,
KIMBERLY M. RICHEY
Florida Department of Education
Senior Chancellor
COLLEGE HIGHLIGHT
Fleet Week and Aviation Technology Day at Miami Dade College
Submitted by Miami Dade College
In the spirit of fostering knowledge and engagement, Miami Dade College (MDC) recently hosted Miami-Dade County Public School (M-DCPS) students at two outstanding events: Fleet Week and Aviation Technology Day. These events highlighted the commitment of MDC to provide enriching experiences for students and the community.
MDC’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) department played a pivotal role during Fleet Week, supporting an enriching
experience for Miami Central High School CTE students specializing in Supply Chain/ Logistics. By providing transportation to the US Navy Fleet Week in Miami, CTE enabled these students to participate in an insightful conversation. Dr. Richard Sarabia, Associate Professor in MDC’s Supply Chain Program, moderated the discussion with Colonel Douglas R. Burke from the U.S. Navy. The engaging dialogue covered topics ranging from logistic strategies to leadership in the maritime industry. M-DCPS students were
captivated by Colonel Burke’s firsthand experiences and practical advice. Fleet Week left a lasting impact on the students. They gained valuable insights into supply chain operations, naval logistics and the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. As they boarded the buses back to Miami Central High School, their enthusiasm was profound—a testament to the success of this initiative.
Following Fleet Week, MDC’s Eig Watson School of Aviation hosted Aviation Technology Day. This event attracted over 230 students and teachers from M-DCPS, all of whom thoroughly enjoyed the day’s activities. The attendees had the opportunity to explore our planes, pilot simulators and Virtual Reality headsets, and participate in various workshops. They also had the chance to meet the MDC Aviation administration, faculty and staff. The event served as a platform for students to immerse themselves in the world of aviation, inspiring many to consider careers in this exciting field.
Highlights of the Day:
1. Aircraft Tours: Students had the opportunity to visit MDC’s training aircraft. Guided by aviation instructors, they peeked into cockpits, inspected engines and learned about aerodynamics.
2. Pilot Simulators: The flight simulators provided an immersive experience.
Students took the controls, practicing takeoffs, landings and emergency procedures.
3. Virtual Reality headsets: transported participants to different aviation scenarios—cockpit views, air traffic control towers and even aerial acrobatics. The realism was astounding, sparking curiosity and inspiring future aviators.
4. Workshops and Panels: Industry professionals shared their expertise. From maintenance technicians to air traffic controllers, students interacted with those who keep the aviation industry soaring.
5. Meet-and-Greet: Participants had the chance to chat with MDC Aviation administration, faculty and staff. These personal connections fostered a sense of belonging and encouraged students to pursue a career in aviation.
In conclusion, both Fleet Week and Aviation Technology Day exemplify MDC’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to engage with industry professionals and gain practical insights into their fields of study. We look forward to hosting more of these enriching events in the future and we are proud of the impact our CTE programs are making in the lives of our current and future MDC scholars.
Tiny Home Project Brings RealWorld Experience Directly to Campus
Submitted by Suncoast Technical College
Practical experience is integral to learning and has been a vital component of the Building Trades and Construction Design Technology program at Suncoast Technical College (STC). For nine years, students worked with Habitat for Humanity and other organizations to gain real-life, handson, off-campus experience within the community.
Instructor Nick DiLorenzo was introduced to donors, Renee and Walt Eppard. The Eppard’s generously offered to fund Nick’s project and, due to its amazing success, they have offered to fund tiny home number two. STC’s second tiny home is currently under construction with Nick’s program and set to become another collaborative project among several other Industrial Technology programs including Carpentry, Plumbing, Electricity, and Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration.
“The tiny house has all the same basic parts, just like a regular residential house. Seeing your personal involvement makes building the structure even more memorable. You get to develop a sense of community; you start to see the challenges as well as the rewards that come alongside all the construction.
“
Keanu F., high school senior
The tiny home can be transported between STC’s Sarasota Campus and its North Port Branch, ensuring all industrial students have an opportunity to be a part of the build.
Nick credits the project’s success to the contributions of everyone involved.
“
I am committed to executing STC’s mission and providing students with the best quality education and the most relative to the industry. My goal is to provide students with the best opportunity for success through experience and the most up-todate training.“
Nick DiLorenzo
For more information about STC’s Industrial Technologies or other Career & Technical Education programs, visit us online at Suncoast.edu or contact a school counselor at 941-924-1365 / Ext. 62283.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT
Broward County Public Schools My Next Move
By Broward County Public Schools
The intersection of career aspirations and opportunities was distinctly apparent at the recent My Next Move Career Fair. Hosted at the Atlantic Technical College - Arthur Ashe Campus, the event illuminated pathways for graduating seniors embarking on their professional journeys.
With a mission to guide students without immediate post-secondary plans toward fulfilling career avenues, My Next Move showcased a variety of options spanning careers, full and part-time employment opportunities, internships and local technical college prospects. The event served as a beacon of hope for those seeking clarity amidst numerous choices awaiting them beyond high school.
A testament to its significance, My Next Move drew over three hundred and twenty-nine high school seniors hailing from twenty-nine high schools and nontraditional centers. Their enthusiasm was matched by the participation of fifty-three businesses and organizations, each offering invaluable insights and opportunities for the graduating high school seniors eager to plan their course in
the professional realm.
For these students, the My Next Move wasn’t merely a field trip; it was a gateway to possibilities. They explored various industries, engaged in meaningful conversations with representatives from different sectors and gathered firsthand knowledge about the skills and qualifications required to thrive in their chosen fields. From technology to healthcare, hospitality to finance, every corner of the professional landscape was represented, with a single goal: to inspire and ignite sparks of enthusiasm in the hearts of the attendees.
Beyond the exchange of information, the My Next Move Career Fair fostered connections by bridging the gap between academia and industry, planting the seeds for future collaborations, partnerships and by promoting professional success within the community. It underscored the importance of community engagement in nurturing the next generation of leaders and professionals, instilling in them the confidence and drive to pursue their aspirations with enthusiasm.
For the students who walked through its doors, the My Next Move Career Fair was more than just a pit stop; it was a pivotal moment in their journey toward realizing their full professional potential. As they step into the world armed with newfound insights and opportunities, they do so with a sense of purpose and direction, ready to utilize skills and knowledge gained in their academic, career and technical education courses.
In closing, these events have a profound impact on students and we are looking forward to working with our partners to continue to host these events in the future.
Broward County Public School teachers at the My Next Move Career Fair
Broward County Public School student talks to an exhibitor at the My Next Move Career Fair
STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
Student Success Story: Brian Lopez
Submitted by Martin County School District
Brian Lopez, a 2024 graduate of South Fork High School in the Martin County School District, stands as a shining example in our school district. Having been a part of the Martin County educational system from Head Start through 12th grade, Brian’s
journey is a testament to the opportunities and support available in Martin County Schools.
Throughout his academic career, Brian demonstrated exceptional dedication
Brian Lopez receives career pathway coaching at South Fork High School
and enthusiasm for his studies and extracurricular activities. His commitment was evident in his pursuit of dual certifications as a Nursing Assistant and a Veterinary Assistant, skills that highlight his interests and readiness for the professional world.
Brian’s story is particularly noteworthy because it showcases the effective partnership between high schools and local employers. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by connecting high school graduates with employers who are ready to hire them. Mr. David Snyder, the owner of Evergreen Private Care, played a pivotal role in this success story. Recognizing Brian’s potential and qualifications, Snyder collaborated with Mrs. Lana Barros, the Director of Innovation & Choice for the Martin County School District, to create a unique talent pathway for Brian.
This collaboration exemplifies the campaign’s mission to support students’ transition from academic environments to meaningful careers. Through this partnership, Brian was able to secure a position at Evergreen Private Care, where he began applying his skills as a Certified Nursing Assistant in a real-world setting. This opportunity not only marked the beginning of Brian’s professional journey but also set a precedent for future high school graduates in Martin County.
Brian’s achievements extend beyond his certifications and employment. He embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and community spirit. As a dual-certified professional stepping into the workforce, Brian’s story is an inspiring example of what dedicated students can achieve with the right support and opportunities.
Looking ahead, Brian plans to continue on a health care pathway with the goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner. His high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) program equipped him with the skills for entry-level employment in the healthcare sector, setting a strong foundation for his future aspirations.
Brian Lopez’s success is a proud moment for South Fork High School and the Martin County School District. His achievements serve as a beacon for future students, illustrating that with determination and the right resources, they too can forge a successful path to their careers.
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