New advanced manufacturing program prepares future workforce

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla.—February is Career and Technical Education Month, and schools in Southwest Florida offer a number of programs that prepare students for college or immediate employment.

In Charlotte County, a new advanced manufacturing program is underway.

Ramiya Pickett, a senior at Port Charlotte High School, said she didn't know she'd end up in the program, but shared her unexpected enthusiasm for it. 

"I noticed all the robots, and I said, 'Yeah, this is the place for me,'" said Pickett. "In here, you'll have like eight people huddling around the same machine trying to figure out what's either wrong with it, how to work it, or how to turn off an alarm that won't turn off."

For sophomore Justin Simo, the program was a dream come true.

"I've already had a love for manufacturing and machinery," said Simo. "I own my own personal printer at home, so I'm at home. I'm tinkering around. It's just a great class that I loved when I heard that I got it."

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs help bridge the gap between education and the workforce by providing certification for skilled jobs.

This is the first year the advanced manufacturing CTE program is being offered in Charlotte County. 

"America learned that it's not good not to make your own things, and so the nation and our state have put this to the forefront," said David Reagle, the teacher for the program. "They are providing money and resources to get manufacturing back on its feet. And the kids that you saw in here today, those are the hands that are going to rebuild America. Really building a pipeline."

The program allows students to use professional equipment, become certified, and decide whether to continue their education in college or enter the workforce directly.

"This program gives me a great sense of hope, because alongside the 3D printing, we also have, like the electrical, the pneumatics, even the CNC, all big industries, big payouts," said Simo. "I'm looking at this, and I'm saying, 'Yes, I get a break from math work, and yes, I can actually do something I have a passion for.'"

Reagle highlighted the benefits that CTE programs like these offer students.

"The hands-on learning that they get here is great," said Reagle. "Next year, when we get some more stuff in, be even better."

In addition to advanced manufacturing, Charlotte County Public Schools is offering new CTE programs in aquaculture, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity at Lemon Bay High School, aiming to provide students with diverse opportunities for their futures.