Reinvent Me Spotlight

Expected Change Happens Here.

Just as the times are ever-changing, there are some things that remain constant. Students. Each year, new and returning students filter in and out of the OCPS CTE classroom doors. They are as diverse as the course offerings, yet they are all unified by one thing—reinvention. Be it one course or an entire curriculum leading to the all-important certification that culminates in a great career, each student is given the opportunity to cultivate and ultimately change who they are and what they can accomplish.

Be Inspired!
OCPS helps more than 50,000 people each year by providing specific technical knowledge that meets their unique career goals. We can help you too.

Click on the spotlights below to hear their inspiring stories—yours could be written next. Lights, camera, education!

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Adam
Making the World Work, One Part at a Time

Most of us don't spend a lot of time thinking about how complicated machinery works, but we do enjoy its benefits. From the high speed blender that made that delicious milk shake to the tool the automotive technician used to fix our new car, we all benefit from the science of manufacturing technology. Fortunately for us, there are people like Adam who are studying manufacturing technology at Mid-Florida Tech.

"I really enjoy my program at Mid-Florida Tech," stated Adam. "The teachers really get involved in helping you understand the concepts and more importantly they help you apply those concepts to real-world manufacturing challenges."

Adam is so confident in his training that one day he hopes to even apply for a patent, perhaps based on a unique design he's developed. But for now, he is happy to pursue his studies at Mid Florida Tech and eventually plans to earn his Bacherlor's Degree in Applied Science.

Alex
Got A Computer Problem... See Alex!

It's a modern day fact of life that sooner or later your computer is going to have problems and require expert attention. And, it's this fact that Alex is counting on as he prepares for a career in computer systems technology. Currently enrolled in the Computer System Technology program at Mid-Florida Tech, Alex is learning all about computers and will eventually earn his A+ and Network+ certifications.

"One day, I would like to open my own computer repair business," stated Alex. "There is a huge need for computer support services - building, maintaining, repairing and even teaching people how to use their computers." "The training I'm receiving at Mid-Florida Tech will prepare me to become a successful computer entrepreneur."

Felicia
Oakland's Loss is Orlando's Gain

Growing up in Oakland in a strong, positive family environment has served Felicia well. That upbringing, coupled with a solid work ethic and an enthusiastic smile has put Felicia on the path to success in her chosen profession - cosmetology. Currently attending Westside Tech's Cosmetology program she enthusiastically speaks about her long-term goal of eventually working for the Walt Disney Company.

"I would love to work for Disney one day in either a make-up or design capacity," stated Felicia. "I might even make some of my own "Magic" as performer as I still love to sing and dance."

Felicia is quick to also point out what she likes best about Westside Tech. "I absolutely love my teachers. They are really focused on teaching us what we need to know to become successful. As a student, I can also appreciate the affordable tuition!"

Heather
Transplanted LA Stunt Woman Tackles New Career Role

Heather knows a thing or two about sore muscles. As a professional stunt woman working in Los Angeles, Heather oftentimes would find herself seeking the soothing touch of a message therapist at the end of a hard day's shoot.

"Obviously in that line of work you have to treat your body well," stated Heather. "Massage therapy is a great way to take care of your body and keep it functioning at an optimal level."

Now enrolled in the Message Therapy program at Westside Tech, Heather can combine her love of fitness, health and helping people - all in one career field. "Once I took a tour of the class, met the instructor and saw the facilities at Westside I was very interested," stated Heather. "I was also surprised at how affordable the program was - that really sealed the deal for me."

After graduation, Heather is keeping her options open and will look for opportunities to apply her newly honed skills to help people "relax, distress and feel better about themselves."

Helen
A Job is Great, A Career is Better

After having spent years in various jobs, Helen decided that it was time for a career. "I had worked in a variety of jobs and as a single parent who wanted more for my family, I decided to get an education and prepare for a career," stated Helen. "I chose the Medical Assisting Program at Winter Park Tech."

With the growth of the medical field in Orlando, Helen is confident she'll find employment once she completes her studies. Moreover, she's excited about preparing for a long-term career in the medical field. "I know I am on the right track for success thanks to the faculty at Winter Park Tech," continued Helen. "This is my first step in becoming a certified radiologist."

Krystal
Media Maven Sets Sights on the Big Time!

If your goal is to one day own a TV network you'll need three things: luck, connections and the best education possible. Thanks to Orlando Tech, the education part of this equation has been completed. Krystal graduated the TV Production program in (December of 2005) and quickly landed a job with the Golf Channel as an Associate Producer.

"I've always loved film, theater and television. I was looking for a hands-on educational program that allowed me to get some great experience," stated Krystal. "At Orlando Tech, I was able to complete my education in a relatively short period of time and learn exactly what I needed to know to land a job in the competitive world of TV production."

Krystal also benefited from scholarships, which meant she graduated without owing substantial amounts of money. All that money she saved has been put to good use as Krystal has recently launched her own production company - T.U.G Productions LLc and BWC(Blessed Women Clothing) also inspired by Orlando Tech. Krystal feels very fortunate to have attended Orlando Tech and is now in a position to give back to the community. "I like to make videos that present a positive and uplifting message, applying many of the skills I learned at Orlando Tech," stated Krystal. "In fact, I am currently working on a children's show that I hope to get sponsors for very soon."

Libertad
Learning to Speak More Than One Language

Libertad graduated from the English as a Second Language (ESOL) Program in August 2006 and quickly re-enrolled to learn a completely different language - the language of computers. Enrolling in Winter Park Tech's Computer Systems Technology program seemed like a logical step for Libertad.

"My long-term goal is become Microsoft Certified and find local employment," stated Libertad. "I knew that improving my English skills would be important in the interview process so I completed the ESOL program and then began to pursue my computer education."

At Winter Park Tech, Libertad feels like she's part of a big family and has been very active in the school's extracurricula activities. "I really enjoyed working with the other students while serving as the President of the ESOL class, the Student Advisory Board and the local student newspaper, the "Tech Times."

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Mark
Piano, Art, Basketball and Automotive Service Technology

The term "Renaissance Man" can be appropriately applied to Mark, a student at Mid-Florida Tech pursuing a certificate in Automotive Service Technology.

"I've always had a variety of interests - from art to sports to yes, even automotive service," stated Mark. Whatever I'm interested in, I enjoy learning as much about it as possible. That's why I enrolled in Mid-Florida Tech…it's the best place to learn about automotive technology."

True to his Renaissance nature, once Mark masters automotive technology he is planning to continue his education with a degree in Industrial Management.

Michael
Getting Ready for Real World

"Working with real clients and tackling real deadlines…that's how I am preparing for my chosen career…" When Michael talks about what prompted him to enroll in the Digital Design program at Winter Park Tech, you're likely to hear him discuss the "real world" aspect of preparing for a career.

"I was looking for a school that would prepare me for the realities of being a professional graphic designer," stated Michael. "We have guest speakers who are actually working in the field and our coursework is reinforced with tangible hands-on projects."

Eventually, upon completion of his program, Michael will indeed be prepared for the real -- exciting -- world of graphic design!

Ravi
A Prescription for Success

You could say that Ravi is a "man with a plan." Currently enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician Program at Westside Tech, Ravi has a clear, ambitiuos long-term career goal. "After I complete my training program at Westside Tech, I plan on attending Valencia College and then eventually earning my Doctor of Pharmacy degree," stated Ravi. "It's important to have goals and even more important to take the first step in achieving those goals."

Ravi was attracted to Westside Tech because of the small class sizes and the fact that he gets a lot of personal, one-to-one attention from his teachers. "I really feel like my teachers care about my success", commented Ravi. "There was one point when I didn't think I could continue with my education, but the encouragement I received from my instructors really pulled me through."

Orange County Public Schools: Career & Technical Education

Reinvent Me Spotlight

Expected Change Happens Here.

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