PAID ADVERTISEMENT
The month of February is widely recognized as Career and Technical Education Month® by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) as an opportunity to celebrate the value, achievements and accomplishments of programs across the country. Gulf Coast State College, along with the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) 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.
“Providing workforce education and certificate programs allow our students to learn specialized skills and earn the credentials needed to enter many essential jobs located in our community and region in a short period of time. We are proud to be able to offer these high-quality educational opportunities right here in Bay County,” said Dr. John Holdnak, President of GCSC.
In September 2020 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.
“Florida College System institutions are committed to the success of all Florida residents and communities, and we are proud to be the workforce engine for our great state,” shared Kathy Hebda, Chancellor of the Florida College System. “Whether a short-term certificate program, an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree, our colleges have the flexibility to provide real access to the highest quality of CTE programs.”
At Gulf Coast State College students can enroll in an in demand, high-quality workforce program, move quickly, and gain critical skills needed in Northwest Florida’s essential and emerging industries. Programs include:
- Engineering Technology
- Digital Media and Digital Design
- Public Safety
- Health Sciences
- Hospitality and Tourism
- And many more!
Floridians can learn more about CTE and workforce training programs available locally at GetThereFL.com.