News Summary

Trident Technical College is enhancing its Future Ready Certificate program, which equips high school students with essential skills for trades. The program is doubling its capacity from 10 to 20 students, now including juniors and seniors from Charleston and Dorchester counties. Previous participants have successfully pursued career pathways, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in addressing workforce needs. With hands-on projects and tours of local employers, the program aims to motivate students towards further education and careers in technical fields.

Charleston, SC – Trident Technical College Expands Future Ready Certificate Program

Trident Technical College is increasing access to its Future Ready Certificate program, designed to equip high school students with essential skills for careers in trades and technical fields. For the upcoming semester, the program will double its capacity from 10 to 20 students and will now include juniors and seniors from Charleston and Dorchester counties.

The Future Ready Certificate program has already seen success, with nine out of the first ten Berkeley County high school participants pursuing career pathways after completing the courses in May. Notable achievements include a recent graduate who secured an apprenticeship with Boeing, while others plan to study air conditioning and refrigeration or enlist in the military for mechanical assembly training.

This 18-week program consists of four courses that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts, emphasizing critical skills such as problem-solving and communication. During the program, students engage in practical projects, including constructing a go-kart, which teaches them skills in precision measuring, circuits, electricity basics, assembly, and data collection. By completing the program, students earn academic credits applicable towards high school graduation and may also contribute toward a degree at a South Carolina technical college.

Program’s Response to Workforce Needs

The growing demand for industrial and manufacturing employees underscores the importance of this program. Trident Technical College aims to fill the workforce gap by guiding students towards viable career paths. In the tri-county area alone, over 4,000 high school graduates did not pursue further education last year, a statistic that represents over half of the public school seniors.

To enhance students’ understanding of their field of study, they have opportunities to tour local employers, such as Mercedes-Benz, allowing them to witness real-world applications of their skills. These experiences aim to motivate students to consider further education in related areas, such as automation programs available at colleges like Wofford College.

Funding and Support

The Future Ready program’s continued success is made possible through funding from the Bosch Community Fund, Volvo, and Boeing, ensuring that students can participate in the program at no charge. Industry leaders, including Boeing, have expressed their commitment to developing the next generation of skilled workers by providing engagement and hands-on training opportunities for students.

Orientation for Interested Students

To inform interested students and parents about the Future Ready Certificate Program, an information session is scheduled shortly before the school year begins. The opening dates for various school districts are set for early August, enabling families to plan accordingly.

As Trident Technical College expands its program, it continues to serve as a vital resource for students transitioning from high school to rewarding careers in trades and technical fields.

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Additional Resources

• SC Daily Gazette: Trident Tech Expanding STEM Program
• Wikipedia: Career Education
• Count On 2: Goose Creek High School Trade Skills
• Google Search: Trade Skills in High School
• Forbes: Dual Enrollment Education
• Google Scholar: Dual Enrollment Education
• Business Wire: ISACA Board of Directors Announcement
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community College