News Summary
Charleston’s Trident Technical College is expanding its Future Ready Certificate program to enhance workforce preparation for high school students. This initiative aims to connect juniors and seniors with hands-on training in trades and technical fields, addressing the labor market demand. The successful program, which has shown promising results in its initial cohort, will double its capacity and provide students numerous benefits, including industry engagement and partnerships that help remove financial barriers. Through this expansion, the program aspires to bridge education and employment, equipping young individuals with vital skills for successful careers.
Charleston Expands Technical Education Program to Prepare High School Students for Workforce Opportunities
Charleston, SC – Trident Technical College is significantly broadening its Future Ready Certificate program, which aims to guide high school students toward careers in trades and technical fields. The initiative, now in its expansion phase, seeks to connect more students from throughout the tri-county area with hands-on training that aligns with current labor market demands.
Program Success and Early Outcomes
The Future Ready Certificate program has already demonstrated promising results. Its first cohort, primarily from Berkeley County high schools, completed the program in May, with nine out of ten participants choosing career pathways related to manufacturing or technical work. Examples of recent post-program milestones include one student securing an apprenticeship with Boeing, another planning to pursue studies in air conditioning and refrigeration, and a third enlisting in the military for mechanical assembly training. These outcomes showcase the program’s ability to motivate students toward tangible career opportunities.
Program Expansion and Eligibility
As demand grows, the program will expand from serving 10 students per semester to 20 students. Beginning in the upcoming semester, eligibility will extend to high school juniors and seniors from Charleston and Dorchester counties. The program will now accommodate a broader pool of students seeking practical training in STEM-related fields.
Curriculum and Educational Benefits
The 18-week program features four courses emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts. It also focuses on problem-solving and communication skills, essential components in today’s manufacturing environments. Students participate in hands-on projects, such as building a go-kart, which helps develop skills including precision measuring, electrical circuits, assembly, and data collection.
Successful completion of the program results in students earning academic credits applicable toward their high school graduation requirements and a South Carolina technical college degree. This dual benefit contributes to strengthening their educational and career pathways early.
Industry Engagement and Workforce Development
Leading figures in manufacturing emphasize the program’s role in addressing the high demand for industrial workers. The program’s design aims to spark student interest and motivation, especially among those who might not have a clear direction after high school. Recognizing this, the program includes industry tours of local employers like Mercedes-Benz, providing students with real-world insight into their potential careers.
Partnerships and Funding
The program’s expansion and accessibility are made possible through funding from the Bosch Community Fund, Volvo, and Boeing. These partnerships ensure students can participate at no cost, removing financial barriers to participation. Boeing’s Scott Stocker has highlighted their commitment to fostering future workforce talent by supporting hands-on learning experiences.
Background and Broader Context
Trident Tech identified over 4,000 high school graduates in the tri-county area last year who did not pursue further education at public colleges. This group represents more than half of all public school seniors, underlining the importance of vocational training and immediate employment opportunities for young people in the region.
Upcoming Orientation and School-Year Schedule
In preparation for the new school year, an information session will be held for students and parents to provide details about the future semester’s program. The program’s opening dates are scheduled for early August in various districts within the tri-county area, aligning with the start of the academic year.
Overall, Trident Technical College’s efforts to expand its Future Ready Certificate program aim to bridge the gap between education and employment, equipping young people with the skills needed for successful careers in manufacturing and technology-oriented fields in South Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- SC Daily Gazette: Trident Tech Expanding STEM Program
- Wikipedia: Career Education
- Count On 2: Goose Creek High School Trade Skills
- Google Search: Trade Skills in High School
- Forbes: Dual Enrollment Education
- Google Scholar: Dual Enrollment Education
- Business Wire: ISACA Board of Directors Announcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community College
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