Students Powering the Future of Technical Trades

“You have to show hard work, consistency, and discipline.”

In this episode of Our Voices, Our Future, three award-winning students from Edison Academy meet with Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. They discuss how they are turning their love for technical trades into high-level careers. For these students, success comes from hands-on grit.

Through Edison Academy’s programs, students are closing the gap between high school and the professional world. They recently took part in SkillsUSA. They compete in technical fields like HVAC, which focuses on heating and cooling systems, Career Pathways, which tests a student’s ability to turn technical skills into a professional career plan, and Internetworking, which is the study of how to build and manage computer networks. 

Mohammad placed in three categories at the state level: Program Design, HVAC, and T-Shirt Design. He shared with Dr. Reid how his journey began with a love for photography. In this conversation, he was joined by fellow state champions Ceaser and Sam, who won gold medals in Career Pathways and Internetworking. 

These students are already moving into the workforce by pursuing a degree in cybersecurity or joining the Steamfitters Local 602 union. 

“I think it's so important that you're ready for the real world … We certainly need HVAC techs and we need network specialists… The future is really bright,” said Dr. Reid.