February 25, 2025 PÕ¾ÊÓƵ
Fort Pierce, FL (February 25, 2025) – At PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are transforming students’ lives and launching successful careers. This February, during National CTE Month, we’re highlighting remarkable students who exemplify the power of hands-on career training.
From Beauty School to Business Owner
Krystal Allen turned her PÕ¾ÊÓƵ Cosmetology certification into entrepreneurial success. After completing the program, she launched her own business which has thrived even through challenging times. “Hair was always big for me, and it opened a lot of doors,” says Allen. She credits PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s program with teaching her technical skills and vital business knowledge. “It prepared me with professionalism, how to maintain a business, become an entrepreneur, and manage finances.”
Krystal Allen is an PÕ¾ÊÓƵ Cosmetology program graduate.
Healthcare Heroes in Training
For Ayanna McNeil, PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s Medical Assisting program is opening doors to a promising healthcare career. Set to graduate this June, McNeil is mastering both clinical and administrative skills. “I’m using this program to explore my options in the medical field while making a difference in people’s lives,” she explains. With the high demand for medical assistants, McNeil looks forward to starting her career immediately after certification.
Ayanna McNeil, soon-to-graduate from PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s Medical Assisting program, prepares to launch her healthcare career.
Building a Future in Laboratory Science
Glendy Velasquez, who completes PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s Phlebotomy program in April, demonstrates how CTE can be a stepping stone to broader career goals. Already planning to continue her education in medical laboratory technology, Velasquez appreciates the hands-on training she’s received. “It feels good to be part of the medical field,” she shares, noting the abundant job opportunities available to program graduates.
Glendy Velasquez draws blood during her phlebotomy training at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, where hands-on experience is preparing her for future advancement in medical laboratory technology.
These stories showcase how PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s CTE programs provide practical skills, industry knowledge, and clear pathways to career success. Whether launching a business like Allen, entering healthcare like McNeil, or building toward advanced studies like Velasquez, PÕ¾ÊÓƵ students find the support and resources they need to achieve their professional goals.
About CTE at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ
CTE at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ can take the form of an A.S. degree, technical certificate, vocational certificate, or apprenticeship. The College offers 116 CTE programs spanning fields such as radiography, phlebotomy, dental hygiene, advanced manufacturing, culinary, hospitality, accounting, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, public safety, automotive technology, welding, and HVAC.
PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s CTE programs feature:
- Industry-certified instructors with real-world experience
- State-of-the-art training facilities and equipment
- Partnerships with local employers for internships and job placement
- Flexible scheduling options including evening and online classes
- Career counseling and job placement assistance
Many programs can be completed in two years or less, with some offering certifications in as little as a few months. The College maintains strong relationships with local industry partners to ensure curriculum aligns with current workforce needs and emerging technologies.
To learn more about PÕ¾ÊÓƵ’s Career & Technical Education programs, Â
Dr. Prashanth Pilly, Associate Vice Provost at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, recently spoke about CTE on WQCS’s RiverTalk.and discover how the College’s hands-on programs are launching rewarding careers and meeting regional workforce needs.
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About PÕ¾ÊÓƵ: PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 120 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. For more information, visit irsc.edu.
Media Contact: Kathleen Walter, Public Information Officer, kwalter1@irsc.edu
