Day in the Life
Every day in an OCPS CTE classroom, lives are changing.
The world around us is changing and progressing in part due to OCPS CTE. What’s being learned in the classroom is applied in the field—in businesses we patronize, stores we shop and organizations we support.
Like most things, it simply begins on an ordinary day. An inquiry becomes a completed application. And successful enrollment transitions into enjoying classes. Every step in the process becomes a significant moment that marks a "new day" in the life of an OCPS CTE student.
As soon as applicants enroll, their lives become different. Days are varied and each one welcomes a new opportunity based on the experience and knowledge gleaned. From information technology to agriculture and graphic design to automotive services technology—the days are as unique as the students who live them.
CTE Student "Day in the Life"
Orange County Public Schools Career and Technical Education helps more than 50,000 people each year by providing specific technical knowledge and skills. Additionally, we partner with many corporations, in a wide range of industries, to meet hiring goals, training requirements and recruitment needs. Hear from alumnus and corporate partners as they share their success stories. We’d love to hear from you! If you have a story to share, please click here.
Highlight of a Westside Tech Student
Name:
Marvin Hunter
Campus Location
Westside Tech
Program or Coursework
Building Construction Technology
Expected Graduation/Completion Date
October, 2010
Dream Job
Head of building maintenance at a large corporation or organization.
Previous jobs or career path (if any)
Self employed painter.
How did you become interested in current program or coursework?
Even at a young age, I've always enjoyed working with my hands; either fixing or building things. I also love the outdoors. Enrolling in the Building Construction Technology program seemed like the perfect match.
Did you have any fears about going back to school?
No, but I was awfully anxious to start!
Why did you select OCPS CTE as a postsecondary or continued education option?
Westside Tech's location makes it easy for me to attend, plus after talking with the instructor, I really related to the learning style of the program. They offered the challenge I needed to succeed.
What do you like most about the program?
The most valuable and enjoyable are the hands-on, real-life activities that the program offers. We're doing block work, roofs, plumbing, electrical, air conditioning, tiling, sprinkler systems, solar system, I could go on and on. You learn a lot and definitely get your money's worth.
What’s something “unexpected” that you learned during your time at OCPS CTE?
No surprises. The teachers and students are friendly. Everyone's here to learn.
How has OCPS changed your life?
By enhancing my skill-set. I would not otherwise had the opportunity to learn and become skilled on some of the building maintenance equipment. I've also increased my technology and computer skills.
What will you do with your certificate/degree/knowledge upon completion of your program/coursework?
Once I finish the Building Maintenance Technology program, I will continue my education and enroll in the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology program here at Westside Tech.
Do you have any future education plans (at OCPS CTE or another institution)?
Yes, see above.
What are your hobbies or what do you do for fun?
In my spare time I like to tinker with and repair things for my neighborhood friends and family. I also enjoy participating in and watching sports with my friends.
How do you spend your days on campus when attending class?
I look forward to attending class and learning something new. Mornings are usually a traditional classroom learning environment with either a lecture, guest speaker, or a small group activity. It's not always building construction activities; there are a lot of soft skills injected into the program. Employability and work ethic skills are enforced to prepare us to become better workers.
Source of Inspiration
The instructor, Mr. Siedschlaw. He is very professional and knowledgeable in his area. He doesn't mind going over things if you don't understand. He treats all his students fairly and he makes learning enjoyable.
What words of wisdom would you give to future OCPS CTE students (pursuing your chosen field or others)?
Make sure you choose a career field for the right reasons. It has to be something you enjoy doing. Don't choose a career field just because they say you can earn a lot of money. If you're good at what you do, the money will come. Choose a career where you can have fun! It's not work when you love what you do.