About the Webinar:
This presentation explored how Florida Trade Academy (FTA) equips students nearing graduation with the skills and certifications needed to transition seamlessly from the classroom to a successful career. FTA specializes in developing and managing customized registered pre-apprenticeship and certified training programs, offering students hands-on learning and industry-recognized credentials. The session highlighted how these innovative pathways provide students with tangible opportunities in high-demand fields, preparing them to meet the needs of today’s employers and fostering career readiness at an early age.
Classrooms to Careers: FTA’s Customized Pre-Apprenticeships and Certified Training for Student Success
Presenter:
- Chris Pello, CEO, Florida Trade Academy
Date/Time: November 19, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Handouts / Slides:
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Additional Attachments
- 02-06-Classrooms_to_Careers_FTA’s_Customized_Pre-Apprenticeships_and_Certified_Training_for_Student_Success_Handout1.pdf (PDF •86.8KB File Size)
Session Summary
This presentation, "Classrooms to Careers: FTA's Customized Pre-Apprenticeships and Certified Training for Student Success," by Chris Pello, CEO of Florida Trade Academy, explores how FTA is bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. The session begins with Pello sharing his background in education and the genesis of Florida Trade Academy.
Pello emphasizes the need for alternative career pathways for students who choose not to pursue college. FTA initially focused on providing trade school options for high school graduates but has evolved into a comprehensive apprenticeship and training provider. They offer various programs, including construction trades, manufacturing, and solar technology.
The presentation highlights the importance of preparing students for careers with little to no debt and the necessity of equipping them with practical skills. Pello shares a concerning statistic that many schools claim to offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, but students are not taking the exams for national certifications. The goal of FTA is to change that by providing certified training programs that can be brought into schools, giving students tangible career opportunities.
The session also touches upon real-world impact, with Pello sharing success stories of students who have benefited from FTA programs. These stories illustrate how students can gain valuable skills and credentials, leading to well-paying jobs and fulfilling careers. Pello emphasizes that the need for skilled workers in the trades is high and that schools have an obligation to guide students towards these opportunities.
The presentation concludes by outlining how FTA can deliver customized, turnkey CTE programs to schools, including training, onboarding, and compliance assistance. Pello emphasizes the affordability of these programs and the potential for sponsorships and partnerships with employers.
Overall, the presentation highlights the importance of providing students with diverse career pathways and how Florida Trade Academy is actively working to make these pathways a reality for students across the state.