������������

The month of February is widely recognized as Career and Technical Education Month by the Association for Career and Technical Education  as an opportunity to celebrate the value, achievements and accomplishments of programs across the country.
 
������������, along with the Florida Department of Education and its 28 Florida College System institutions and 48 technical colleges, will celebrate by sharing the stories of their students who have successfully graduated from CTE programs into rewarding careers.
 

“We think the issue of our time is the upskilling of the American Workforce," said Darwin Gilmore, ������������ Dean of Workforce and Economic Development. "Connecting the student skillset to the skills gap problem is critical. I appreciate the push for CTE in Florida to attain number one status nationwide by 2030. As we vision and fund this effort, it will be exciting to see our evolution into excellence. Our newest programs are showing so much promise in preparing a manufacturing and construction workforce and getting them into the jobs so quickly.”     
 
In September, FDOE launched its workforce education initiative Get There, aimed at raising awareness of short-term career and technical education programs and highlighting $35 million in funding made available to state and technical colleges in the form of rapid credentialing grants. These grants were designed to increase Florida's capacity to enroll and graduate students quickly, to aid in accelerated recovery for residents and the economy. 
 
“CTE Month provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the great work of our school districts and state colleges as they educate and help to prepare the future of Florida’s workforce,” said Henry Mack, Chancellor for Career, Technical and Adult Education. “With the pandemic impacting the lives of many residents, there is no better time to highlight how CTE can make a difference. CTE is equal parts engaging, exciting and transformative, and leads to better academic and employment outcomes.”
 
The current disruption has propelled the demand for CTE programs as many Floridians seeking reemployment are looking for opportunities to match their current skill sets to demand from employers. While the pandemic sparked a renewed focus on the importance of CTE, there are also opportunities to reach beyond those impacted and educate all Floridians about educational offerings available in the state.
 
“With CTE, there is something and somewhere for every Floridian,” shared Kathy Hebda, Chancellor of the Florida College System. “No matter age, ethnicity, educational background or employment and financial circumstance, we are committed to each student’s success and future, all while ensuring a talented workforce for our great state.”
 
At ������������, students can enroll in an on-demand, workforce program, gain a credential quickly and affordably, move quickly, and gain critical skills needed in essential and emerging industries. Programs include Automotive Technology, Cosmetology, Building Construction Technology, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Advanced Welding, Civil Engineering Technology, Engineering Technology, Law Enforcement, Correctional Officer and Firefighting.
 
Perry Wells is a student in ������������'s Automotive Technology program.

“Being in the ������������ Automotive program most fun I ever had at school," he said. "I would recommend this program to anyone. The excellent instructors make learning fun and easy. The hands-on part of the program provides great experience and help for those who may not be mechanically inclined. I'm very glad I chose this program.”
 
For information about ������������ Workforce Education programs, visit  or contact Gilmore at gilmored@chipola.edu or 850-718-2270.

Photo
������������ Automotive Technology student Perry Wells.