What do you think of technical education as an educator? Is it something you would advise your student to consider when choosing their career path as compared to a four-year degree program?
Technical skills are an important part of the workforce in America today. They equip students with more than just adaptability and flexibility skills which enable them to change with time.
Today we have Chelle Travis, the executive director of Skills USA, a leading a career and technical student organization. She has over 17 years of leadership experience in career and technical education and the fourth ever leader of Skills USA. Skills USA serves middle schools, high schools, and college plus secondary students that are preparing careers and trade technical and skills service occupations.
There are misconceptions in our society that technical education is less than the four-year degree education, which is simply not true, it can be just as lucrative if not more. Educators need to dispel this idea by educating parents on the impact of technical careers while allowing students to think for themselves on what they’re passionate about.
Students need to be given tools they need to be successful and be provided with confidence and strength to achieve their dreams. Educators need to show students their value and give them the opportunities and tools and mentorship that is necessary for their success. As a student on the other side, you need to explore available career opportunities and find a mentor who will guide you through your career journey.
Key Moments:
· [2:39] She explains the meaning of the skills gap and how the work as Skills USA to reduce it in the workforce.
· [4:20] The impact of technical education on a students’ life, their families, and the community.
· [5:55] Dispelling the misconception that technical education is less than a four-year degree career.
· [9:06] How to find more about Skills USA and join.
· [10:44] Chelle explains the skills that are programmed into their teaching framework at Skills USA.
· [12:24] How students and instructors have shifted their focus to help fight COVID-19 in 2020.
· [17:33] She explains what led her to pursue a passion for technical education and student organization.
· [21:24] How her mother provided her with the confidence and tools to be successful.
· [24:47] The steps that you need to take as a student when choosing the education path to your future career.
· [27:09] How as a parent you can get involved in your child’s career exploration journey.
· [29:53] Why passionate educators that invest in their students stand out from the rest.
Quotes:
· “Employers are desperate for field workers and so the jobs are there and they pay well.”– Chelle Travis [6:58]
· “I do believe in providing students with opportunities and tools and the mentorship that they need to be successful.”– Chelle Travis [24:20]
· “Many things that appear to be stumbling blocks upon first glance are often things that lead us to success.”– Chelle Travis [26:01]
Contact Nick:
Website: https://nickzizi.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nickzizi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickzizi/?hl=en
Find Chelle on:
