Spotlights showcase the career journey of professionals across the Jacksonville region. From people starting out on their career path to ones transitioning to a new profession, Earn Up wants to show how you can achieve your goals right here in Jacksonville.
Click on the pictures below to learn more and go to Career Pathways to start your own journey.
To offer premier services in this market, Jacksonville Ship Repair requires a variety of skilled workers to maintain their reputation of excellence. A variety of custom shops make up the shipyard’s expansive facilities, such as carpenter, insulation, sheet metal, pipe, paint, rigging, and steel fabrication shops.
Working at Jacksonville Ship Repair requires diversified skills to meet the challenges of the industry, but also allows workers to use the same technology used in the energy and aerospace industries to do so. Specialized welding using mirrors allows workers to weld completing around pipes. Massive equipment permits lifts of entire ship modules with its thirteen-ton payload. Specialized equipment allows for the precision cutting of up to 6 inches of steel and cutting large steel sheets with plasma cutters.
Currently, Jacksonville Ship Repair has 800 staff including temporary agency employees. They offer various shift options, such as a night shift and an overnight shift. The shipyard will be full throughout 2020 and 2021. As a result, they would like to expand their footprint to take on more vessels simultaneously. They are exploring options to make it a reality. If successful, the workforce may also expand as well. The Jacksonville division looks forward to assisting the community with establishing apprenticeships to support the maritime industry.
According to Ernie Aglugub, Jacksonville Ship Repair’s first training specialist, there are two paths to employment: directly with the company through the website
jobs.baesystems.com and through the “Master Service Provider” NSC Technologies. NSC is their interface with several temporary employment agencies who provide both skilled and unskilled labor. Those employees who rise above the rest are sometimes offered permanent positions on the Jacksonville Ship Repair team.
Entry level positions are known as helpers. Ernie stated, “If high school graduates have an interest and motivation to learn and work in a shipyard, they can begin at better than minimum wage and be eligible for great benefits. While many grads just entering our community’s workforce often start through NSC, it’s not uncommon for them to be hired directly.”
Ernie indicated that “Our Talent Acquisition does a great job living up to its
namesake…acquiring talent. But I assist our shipyard by helping to bridge the gaps between the workforce pipeline of the community, the entry-level welding helper, the seasoned ship fitter and the master welder. Our new Henry S. Jordan Welding Technology Scholarship for select high school students is a great example of one of those bridges.”
Jacksonville Ship Repair also works closely with Career Source Northeast Florida (CSNEFL) to upskill existing personnel using Customized Training Grant funds. Roben Faircloth, Industry Manager at CSNEFL said, “BAE Systems is committed to helping its employees continue to grow their skills and advance on their career pathways. The company has utilized our Customized Training program to offset some of the cost of upskilling their employees. BAE Systems is working to ensure the company and its employees are ready to fulfill the requirements of its customers today and tomorrow, and CareerSource NEFL is happy to help support them.”
BAE Systems is a strong and successful advocate of diversity and inclusion, illustrated by award-winning Employee Resource Groups (ERG). Every employee is invited to join any ERG, which are run by volunteers throughout the company. ERG’s include Abilities Beyond Limits, African Americans Committed to Excellence, Asian/Pacific Islander ERG, GENerations & YP@BAE, OutLink, Hispanic Organization for Leadership Advancement, Veteran's Support Network, and Women's Inclusive Network. Jacksonville Ship Repair regularly takes part in several community events and sponsors many local organizations as well.
The outlook for advanced manufacturing and technology is strong for both industry growth and job growth with the need for skilled workers. In Jacksonville, advanced manufacturing employment is outpacing the national average.
Henderlite is a dedicated supporter of advanced manufacturing and technology education, recognizing it as essential to providing a skilled workforce. He is the founding instructor for the robotics and advanced manufacturing academy at Frank H. Peterson, where he introduces and attracts students to manufacturing careers and educational pathways.
Prior to becoming a high school teacher, Henderlite served 21 years in the U.S. Navy, where he was involved in nuclear power plant operations and maintenance. His experiences, first as a nuclear prototype instructor and later as a nuclear repair coordinator, inspired his decision to become a teacher when he retired from the Navy.
"I was always teaching and training in my Navy positions, and I was able to take these skills and move into a position in education," Henderlite said.
At Frank H. Peterson, Henderlite is the Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program's lead teacher. The program, which provides students with a foundation of knowledge and technically oriented experiences in the study of the principles and applications of robotics engineering, helps students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving ability and communication skills.
The CTE Program includes coursework in safety, quality and measurement, pneumatics, hydraulics and welding. Students learn the skills and expertise necessary so that they are prepared to take the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) national certification exam.
"The MSSC national certification exams are challenging," Henderlite said. "Our school is one of only nine schools in Florida that teaches this program."
Students at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology earn a Career and Professional Education (CAPE) certification and a high school diploma. Students graduate prepared to enter the workforce and/or pursue higher education.
Advanced Placement courses are also offered. In addition to their high school diploma, students may earn an Associate of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering from Florida State College at Jacksonville. The partnership provides students with mentors, hands-on work experience and consideration for employment opportunities at the end of the program.
Henderlite's enthusiasm for manufacturing and technology education and his students' success extends beyond the classroom. He serves as a coach in the FIRST Tech Challenge competition and has been actively involved with FIRST Robotics with Renaissance JAX. These and other after-school initiatives create excitement and engagement, helping students learn valuable skills for the future.
"I encourage students to be open to opportunties and not to limit themselves," Henderlite said. "The skill sets are transferable from one career to another."
The knowledge, training and MSSC certifications earned from the CTE program have prepared Henderlite's students for employment and their future careers. The success stories include a paid student internship at Johnson & Johnson Vision, a position as a 3-D printing engineer at SAFT after earning a college engineering degree and employment at Special Tools Solutions, a Jacksonville machine shop.
Jobs Corps is a career and technical training program for students 16 to 24 years old. James' grandmother was a graduate of the Job Corps program. His mother, who knew about the program, encouraged her son to enroll and live on campus.
"My mom was serious, yet so supportive," said James, a process Technician at Johnson and Johnson Vision (J&J Vision), the maker of ACUVUE Brand Contact Lenses. The company's contact lenses are available in 100 countries.
James is one of the first participants to graduate from the J&J Vision partnership program at the Jobs Corps Center. The global lens manufacturer, headquartered in Jacksonville, invested in manufacturing technology training at Job Corps. J&J Vision placed state-of-the-art equipment at the center and provides the necessary support and mentors to make the program successful.
While at the Jobs Corps, James earned a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) certification with plans to go into the heating and cooling industry. Just days after earning his HVAC certification, he learned about the new J&J Vision advanced manufacturing program. He was intrigued by the opportunity, so he stayed on at the Job Corps and enrolled in the program.
"There is a tremendous opportunity and job security in the advanced manufacturing field," James said.
After graduating from the program, James started working at J&J Vision in March 2022. As a process technician, he is responsible for diagnosing problems with machines, completing audits and performing inspections.
"Each day is different - I never know what to expect," James said. "There are some days where you're troubleshooting and diagnostic skills come into play."
James enjoys his work and likes that his job requires him to draw upon his critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
James said, "This program has brought out the best in me."
At one time, James did not envision a career in advanced manufacturing. Now, he is working to earn certifications that will demonstrate his knowledge and understanding of the core competencies of manufacturing production. He is also looking at future industry training advancement opportunities.
"At Johnson & Johnson Vision, I am helping produce products that make life better," James said. "I see myself growing and taking on more responsibility at this company."
The Jacksonville Jobs Corp Center offers work-based learning programs in 10 trades. The programs offer on-the-job training and are available at no cost. James is grateful for the Jobs Corps/J&J Vision partnership, his mother's support and his faith in God.
"The program changed me in a multitude of ways," James said. "I've become more focused on my future and much more determined as a result of the success I've gained from my time being in the program."
Garvin, who is originally from Florida but grew up in Mississippi, played sports in high school and attended Belhaven University, where he was a member of the Blazers’ football team. After one semester, he transferred to Alcorn State University and decided not to pursue playing sports.
“I lost my love for playing football,” Garvin said. “I had to find myself and get on the right track in life.”
Garvin attended Alcorn for a year and a half. When he left, he was uncertain what he wanted to do as a career and concerned about the impact attending school was having on his finances.
“I didn’t want to be in school for so long that I ended up in debt,” Garvin said. He found work but the jobs didn’t provide him with much satisfaction.
In 2021, Garvin returned to Northeast Florida and discovered productivity and purpose after enrolling in the Diesel Systems Technician program at First Coast Technical College along with his father, Ronald Garvin, Sr.
Ronald’s father had purchased a semi-truck with an engine that needed to be overhauled. When a shop wanted to charge $13,000 for the repairs, they decided they would rather do the work themselves. A former student had told them about FCTC's Diesel program. Garvin’s father encouraged his son to sign up for the program and they enrolled together.
“Everyone in Northeast Florida drives trucks, but no one knows how to fix them,” Garvin said.
In the Diesel Systems Technician program, the Garvins learned how to diagnose, repair, overhaul, and assemble diesel trucks and machinery. They also learned how to maintain heavy equipment in a rapidly changing industry using a full systems approach. Not only did they learn how to repair their truck, their father/son relationship became closer from the experience.
They completed the program in 2023, preparing Garvin Jr. for employment with Ring Power as a Shop Technician III on Ring Power’s Utility Production team. Headquartered in St. Augustine, Ring Power Corporation is North and Central Florida’s Cat® dealer. The company is comprised of eight divisions and has 60 years of experience servicing and supporting Cat® products and allied equipment. Ring Power employs teams of skilled technicians who work on everything from equipment that builds roads and communities to engines that power marine vessels to generators big enough to power a hospital.
While FCTC prepared him for employment, Garvin’s understanding of electrical systems has grown with on the job training and support from his mentors at Ring Power. Garvin performs maintenance and repairs on equipment. He enjoys problem solving and is not afraid of challenges. He says patience, persistence and precision has been the key to his success.
“It’s been very rewarding,” said Garvin. “I can say I’m a diesel mechanic with pride.”
Garvin is enthusiastic about the trades, which offer well-paying and secure career opportunities. He also is passionate about sharing his love of the trades with others.
“This experience has been life-changing for me,” Garvin said.
Baldwin Middle-High School, part of the Duval County School District, is dedicated to providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students. The school is a place where every member is inspired and equipped for success in post-secondary education, a career, and in life.
Former Principal Dr. Denise Hall, a 33-year veteran of education, indicated that there were very few honors academy programs offering aeronautics curriculum throughout the nation. So, when the opportunity arose to create a dual enrollment program with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University located in Daytona Beach, she seized the opportunity. After hiring local teacher Mr. John Wells, the program developed into its existing structure. Mr. Wells has taught the program for 7 years. In that time, Wells has seen students take what they learned in class and create a career pathway in aviation and aerospace.
Baldwin students enrolled in the Embry Riddle Aeronautical Dual Enrollment Program can take 6 college classes to earn up to 18 college credits. They can also exit the classroom with two certifications: Unmanned Drone and Small Pilots license.
Foundational work begins in Middle School with preparation via math and science courses such as pre-algebra, algebra and computer science. “I actively try to recruit students. Robotics is another way to engage students,” says Wells.
Students entering the Embry Riddle Aeronautical Dual Enrollment Program take a series of courses preparing them for certification. For example, as freshmen, students engage in robotics and science. As sophomores, they take a semester of Principles of Aerospace Science and a semester of Unmanned Vehicles. Juniors take a course in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and an Intro to Health, Occupational and Transportation Safety course. Ultimately, seniors study Introduction to Aerospace Safety and Principles of Management.
Wells encourages his students to seek out internships to supplement their learning. “Internships at NAS JAX are available. Employment is great because students are sent to school to learn a trade and then guaranteed a job upon completing a program.”
Students are pursuing this pathway further after high school graduation. Wells said, “Several Boeing employees have come from the class. Two obtained a pilot’s license. One female student is entering Embry Riddle with another female student completing this year.”
Students wishing to pursue the pathway can continue schooling at Embry Riddle which offers Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science, Aeronautics, Aerospace & Occupational Safety, Aerospace Engineering, Aerospace Physiology and Air Traffic Management, and Astronomy & Astrophysics. Students can complete an Aircraft Dispatcher certificate program or pursue masters and PhD programs.
Student success springs from earning aviation certifications even if a student chooses another pathway. For example, one Baldwin Middle-High School graduate obtained an accounting job at Jacksonville University because of the certification. While unrelated to the job duties, the aeronautical certifications on that individual’s resume distinguished him to the hiring manager.
Wells indicated that, “As an instructor, the goal is to have student complete the courses and obtain an industry certification as well as the college credits. But, it is rewarding to see them grow from middle through high school and all they can accomplish.”
One such student, Ashlyn Moment emphasized how much the program set her up for success at Embry Riddle. “Mr. Wells is one of the reasons why I am who I am today. He not only cares about what goes on in his classroom but who we are when we step out of that door. If it wasn't for him and this program, I would have never known what Embry-Riddle was or even applied.”
Ashlyn is now in her fourth year at Embry-Riddle majoring in Spaceflight Operations with two minors in Human Factors and Aviation Safety. She is the President of a collegiate chapter of a national organization on our campus, The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals.
Ashlyn’s goal is to graduate in the Spring of 2023 and enter the Air Force to become a Space Operations Officer. With taking this career path, she will formulate space operation policies and activities and establishing training requirements and performance standards.
Ultimately, dual enrollment courses led to a solid career pathway choice.
Tyler completed the automotive program at Palatka High School, passing all 10 National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification exams and the Florida Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) dealership exam. At the beginning of Tyler’s senior year, he transferred to Crescent City Jr/Sr High School due to a move. There, he completed the welding program and became American Welding Society (AWS) certified.
At Crescent City, Tyler was selected for the Manufacturing Prep Accelerated Program (MPAP) at St. Johns River State College based upon previous achievements and interests. Previously disinterested in college, Tyler realized that trades can have college-level classes, too. He felt the opportunity was an excellent fit. So, he enrolled in and completed the MPAP. The program prepares students for the Certified Production Technician 4.0 (CPT) designation. Those who pass the CPT certification exams earn 15 credits (one semester) toward the Associate of Science degree in Engineering Technology.
“This program taught me a lot about the importance of safety, as well as quality, and that everything else is constructed around these two key principles,” Tyler said. “Personally, I enjoy the machinery and the precision of the instruments and equipment. I’d rather hold a wrench than a pen, because I like that mental to physical problem solving.”
While Tyler plans to return to college and pursue additional education, he has found employment as a result of his skills and credentials. Tyler is currently at Vac-Con®, a world-wide vacuum truck dealers network. Vac-Con® sells industrial vacuums, hydro-excavation trucks and trailer mounted jetters, hydro-excavators and combination machines. At Vac-Con®, Tyler works in sub-assembly, where he builds the subframes that have been welded by another department. He notes the excellent benefits and pay that will help him achieve has many life goals.
Tyler was driven to work at Vac-Con® following a tour two years earlier during Manufacturing Month. Tours are coordinated by First Coast Manufacturers Association’s Workforce Development Committee and allow high school students to have a first-hand view of manufacturing opportunities available in Northeast Florida.
Due to his interest in a hands-on occupation, Tyler was driven to take advantage of this opportunity via a CARES Act, Rapid Credentialing Grant Opportunity from the Florida Department of Education and the SJR State. He said, “It was my way of getting the feel for the manufacturing industry. Financially, it was very important because college was the furthest from my mind.”
Content for this piece comes from an SJR State Student Highlight which originally appeared on the school's website and Facebook page.
A sports enthusiast, Godwin recognized the restaurant’s guest, former collegiate and professional basketball player Kent Benson, and served as his waiter that evening. Benson was one of Godwin’s sports heroes and their exchange at dinner led to an invitation to join Benson for breakfast the next morning. Benson recognized Godwin’s enthusiasm and knowledge, and asked him if he wanted to work in sports.
“Kent Benson’s kindness completely changed my life and career,” Godwin said.
The Jacksonville native, who earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising from the University of Florida in 1991, parlayed his chance meeting with Benson into a successful career in sports marketing and management. Godwin is now VP, Advertising Strategy & Operations for the PGA TOUR.
“I loved sports as a kid, but I had no idea that my passion for sports could evolve into a career,” Godwin said.
As a result of his connection with Benson, Godwin relocated to Columbus, Ohio, and began working as a community relations assistant at the Continental Basketball Association. Shortly after he arrived, he knew he had found his calling.
“It’s important to find something you have passion for and apply it to your career pathway,” he said.
Godwin wanted to learn more about the business of sports and enrolled in the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a master’s degree in sports management in 1996. His career path included working at the Orlando Magic, the National Basketball Association and the ATP Tour before he joined the PGA Tour as a broadcast project assistant in 2000.
Over the years, Godwin’s responsibilities have advanced as the PGA TOUR has grown and expanded, responding to changing media landscapes and audiences to entertain fans with a variety of platforms. Positions and promotions in digital media, advertising operations and client services led Godwin to his current role.
“There’s great value to getting into an organization, doing the hard work and learning the business,” Godwin said.
Godwin oversees a department of more than 40 talented colleagues responsible for the global strategic oversight of the buy and sell side of advertising operations including high impact display, live and on-demand video, social media, radio, podcast, email, database, search and TV. As a hiring manager, Godwin looks for talented candidates who demonstrate curiosity, a willingness to doing things that haven’t been done before, and who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
“With curiosity, they are going to think about the business innovatively and creatively,” he said.
Godwin attributes his longevity to the PGA TOUR’s culture of collaboration and innovation, and the organization’s charitable impact.
“The PGA TOUR brand is so well respected, but the heart of the organization is its community involvement and charitable giving,” Godwin said. “The PGA TOUR has made a significant impact on so many lives throughout Northeast Florida.”
As Godwin’s experience shows, a career pathway can be unexpected and transform to reflect industry changes. He started out as part of a small team at the PGA TOUR, which has flourished into a news and entertainment brand that engages, inspires and positively impacts golf fans, partners and communities.
Carlson secured an incredibly valuable internship at Dun & Bradstreet, gaining on-the-job experience while attending the University of Miami. Upon graduation, she received an offer to transition into full-time employment at the company’s Jacksonville headquarters.
“I was fortunate to land a virtual internship during the summer of 2021 and extend it throughout my senior year,” said Carlson, a People Operations Analyst at Dun & Bradstreet. “This is my first professional job and it has been exciting to start my career at Dun & Bradstreet in Jacksonville.”
Dun & Bradstreet is a leading global provider of business decisioning data and analytics, and assists companies around the world to improve their business performance. People Operations is a modern interpretation of the responsibilities of a human resources department within an organization, focusing on putting the employee first.
In her role at Dun & Bradstreet, Carlson helps manage the employee journey including orientation and onboarding for new hires. She supports the People Business Partners and the HRIS (HR information systems) Team. She also assists the Early Careers Program Manager with internship program recruitment and operations – the same program that introduced her to Dun & Bradstreet. Carlson relocated to Jacksonville in June 2022.
“It was an exciting time to join Dun & Bradstreet as they were moving their headquarters to Jacksonville,” Carlson said.
Like many students, Carlson was exploring a variety of career pathways during her junior year of college. The internship experience helped her discover her passion, skills and strengths, which is essential for career success.
“I enjoy working with people and achieving business objectives,” Carlson said. “The People Team at Dun & Bradstreet turned out to be an excellent fit for me to learn and grow.”
During her internship, Carlson participated in a rotational training program within the People Team. The experience provided her with skill development and unique insight to support business divisions and corporate functions across the company.
“After exploring the different areas, I gained an understanding of my ideal first job,” Carlson said. “I knew what I wanted before committing to a full-time opportunity.”
Carlson has a strong work ethic and thrives on innovation and embodying the company’s core values. She says collaborating and assisting others throughout the company – both locally and globally – is the most rewarding part of her position. Carlson appreciates the company culture at Dun & Bradstreet.
“The support I have received from my team and my leader throughout my time at Dun & Bradstreet has been amazing,” Carlson said. “Everyone supports your growth and wants you to succeed.”
Like many young professionals, Carlson would have relocated anywhere for the right position. She’s happy her career brought her to Jacksonville.
“Jacksonville is one of the hottest job markets and has so much to offer,” Carlson said. “I enjoy the beaches, the restaurants and the St. Johns Town Center where our headquarters is located. There is something for everyone in Jacksonville.”
Lex learned tremendous lessons while involved in the VyStar Academy in high school in 2012 and 2013. He assisted in teaching fiscal responsibility to other students. He assisted with branch efficiency and modified processing systems. Lex also learned computer repair, which included hardware and software, sparking an interest in Information Technology (IT). Lex learned about the multitude of career opportunities available at VyStar while a high school student. He reviewed active job postings and saw the education needed to obtain IT positions, as well as the average wages he could earn with specific IT skills.
Lex continued working for VyStar post-graduation as a Teller Specialist 1 and Teller Specialist II. These positions allowed him to craft listening and empathy skills, as well as master cash handling and balancing abilities. Lex knew early on that he wanted to pursue a career outside of direct customer service.
However, his transferrable experience as a teller consistently proves valuable as he grows his IT career. His career ladder has allowed him to interface with customers, the end-users of the apps he works so diligently to support. “I’ve worked with our customers and I know how they’re going to react if technology isn’t working. It gives me a sense of urgency to make sure everything’s right.”
While working as a Teller, Lex continued his education in IT. While at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), Lex was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Lex received his Associate of Science degree in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management and continued on at FSCJ for his Bachelors Degree in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. Lex took advantage of scholarship opportunities via Career Source Northeast Florida to assist with tuition. VyStar also provides an outstanding tuition assistance program.
As Lex continued to complete educational milestones, he continued taking new steps in his professional career. Averaging a job change at least every 1-3 years, Lex continues to progress. He has been with VyStar for over 8 years now and only continues to progress.
In his current role in Production and Application Support, he troubleshoots application software issues and ensures successful resolution. Lex is an example of how motivation, strategic planning, and resiliency has tremendous impact. He has successfully leveraged opportunities available to him in high school and college. Lex has taken advantage of the high caliber of education and the high-growth IT occupations in Northeast Florida to craft an enviable career with limitless possibilities.
Internships are highly beneficial work-based learning opportunities. Sean is able to apply what he has learned in the classroom to real-world situations and gain hands on experience from seasoned industry professionals. These experiences have proven extremely valuable for Sean, who states, “With the training and experience I have gained through school and internships, I feel very confident in my skills and abilities as a cybersecurity professional and look forward to future opportunities throughout my career.”
Sean has proven himself to be a skilled contributor to the workforce, garnering praise from colleagues and industry experts. His LinkedIn profile features this quote from a former supervisor: “Sean worked as an intern for me over the summer. He showed true leadership skills, quickly grasped the cyber security skills to have a successful career in the future and was a true asset to the company even as an intern.” From the knowledge gained through his collegiate studies and internships, to the cybersecurity industry certifications and other independent training, he has generated a wealth of experience to prepare him for his future career as a cybersecurity professional within the financial services sector.
In his new role, Kenneth is responsible for the continued development and implementation of products and services for commercial members, such as commercial mortgages, company vehicle loans, business lines of credit and equipment loans. Previously, he held the position of Branch Vice President for VyStar Credit Union.
Kenneth graduated from FSCJ in 2015 with an Associate of Arts (AA) Degree in Business Administration and Management.
Kenneth became interested in the financial services industry because it was “the perfect combination of people and numbers. I liked math and science.” The financial services sector allows Kenneth to positively impact the lives of people. For example, his work helped people get a first credit card, home or car, all with the education required to make smart financial choices. As Kenneth’s role has evolved, he helps maintain and grow businesses.
Kenneth enjoys the industry because of its constantly changing environment which requires progressive learning. When he entered the industry, Kenneth taught himself a great deal about interest rates and loans. He also mastered the skill of talking to customers about their finances, which initially challenged his comfort zone. Now, Kenneth sees his career choice as one that’s generated happiness and has provided a meaningful career. He encourages those seeking to enter the financial services industry to understand themselves and seek a field that is interesting and “goes beyond chasing a dollar.” Kenneth exemplifies selecting a career pathway and setting goals to achieve success — all of which was accomplished using opportunities and resources in Northeast Florida.
Sacic, a Sr. Mortgage Loan Processor at Citi and Keiser University graduate, has successfully navigated his career journey by consciously assessing his goals and performance while maintaining a willingness to learn new skills and explore opportunities. His drive to achieve and exceed expectations has helped him develop strong interpersonal skills, conscientious business judgement and excellent time management abilities.
“I knew I wanted a career path to help others,” Sacic said. “As a loan processor, it is rewarding to help others achieve their goals.”
At Keiser, Sacic earned a bachelor’s degree of Business Administration with a focus on finance and financial management services in June 2020. While he initially attended Keiser because of its convenient location, Sacic recognized the excellence of its programs and appreciated the guidance and assistance he received throughout his student experience.
In August 2020, Sacic joined Citi, where he manages an assigned pipeline of 50 plus loans on a daily and weekly basis. Sacic is responsible for processing loans from application to closing, assisting clients by striving to provide the best guidance and service to meet their needs.
“It’s important to be as transparent as possible and build trust throughout the process,” he said.
The mortgage industry is constantly evolving and impacted by the overall real estate market. The pandemic forced the industry to go digital and many, including Sacic, continue to work virtually. Much of the daily workflow in the mortgage industry is built upon relationships and the customer experience. Sacic draws upon his interpersonal communication abilities, strong organizational skills and passion for analyzing data and information, which required him to master calculation capabilities.
“I didn’t find math to be my strongest suit in the beginning but I took on a challenge,” Sacic said. “Finance requires a willingness to calculate for presenting data and information.”
Sacic is pursuing a National Mortgage Lending Services (NMLS) license, an industry distinction and certification of excellence. In addition to his drive to learn, Sacic credits his dependability and time management skills for his success. He acknowledges the importance of working with transparency, integrity and adaptability to succeed in the financial services industry.
“Change is always happening in the finance world,” he said.
In addition to finding a career that matches his skills, Sacic’s success and engagement aligns with his company’s culture and mission.
“Citi fits who I am and It is a great feeling to know they are there to push us to grow and succeed in our respectable career paths,” he said.
There are expansive employment opportunities in the financial services industry. Sacic’s advice to individuals considering the mortgage/loan processing field is to have patience and a willingness to learn.
A graduate of the University of North Florida in 2007, Shannon initially became interested in the industry after taking some accounting classes. Seeking the ability to infuse more creativity into her studies, she took a financial management class. She enjoyed it immensely, as it permitted application of rules and practices in different ways. Financial management presented flexibility within a specific framework — something that meshed naturally with her personality.
Shannon’s interest and aptitude were further cultivated through involvement in the Osprey Financial Group, a student managed investment fund responsible for a $500,000 endowment. Only 10-15 total graduate and undergraduate students are accepted into this program each year. Shannon was accepted after completing a competitive application and interview process.
The group involved competitions in which the team completed and presented projects to industry professionals and leaders. This work, in addition to her course load, taught Shannon valuable skills in written and oral communication, teamwork, accountability and conflict resolution. This experience provided real skills and resulted in heightened confidence and empowerment.
Shannon also participated in the Finance & Investment Society, as well as Students in Free Enterprise, additional activities that supplemented classroom learning and made her a more valuable hire. Her advice to others seeking this career pathway is to use experiences to “stretch and expand your skill set, as it will open other doors. Take opportunities to expand your network with professors and industry professionals.”
Ultimately, Shannon is an example of how an individual can successfully select a career pathway, pursue education in that pathway, and obtain gainful, fulfilling employment — all right here in the Northeast Florida region.
“You can see where your future can take you if you put in the effort,” Kalin said.
Kalin is the regional president of PNC Bank in North Florida – an area that includes Jacksonville, Daytona, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. His extensive banking experience includes a variety of middle market and corporate banking roles, with responsibilities that included credit analysis, commercial strategy, portfolio management, relationship management, and market expansion.
He didn’t always aspire to become a banker. As a teen, he had an interest in pursuing a degree in criminal justice after watching several crime drama television series. After taking a few classes, he discovered it wasn’t like what he had seen on TV. Fortunately, an advisor recognized his interest in numbers and math, and encouraged him to explore finance as a major. He is a graduate of Providence School and the University of North Florida with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in Finance.
Kalin began his banking career in Jacksonville at Wachovia, which is now Wells Fargo. He was recognized as a top talent and was quickly promoted to a leadership role in Los Angeles. Following a successful build out in Southern California, and recognizing his aptitude and pursuit of excellence, he was promoted to another leadership role in Chicago. While working in Illinois, he maximized his time and earned an MBA from the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago. Another promotion brought him back to Jacksonville in 2014.
Kalin has been with PNC since 2017, where he originally helped lead the corporate banking efforts in North Florida. That success led him to be named the North Florida regional president in October 2022.
“I am fortunate to have a career that inspires me, and to work for an organization with incredibly talented individuals that I respect,” he said.
Kalin currently serves on the board of directors of the Museum of Science & History as well as the JAX Chamber. He serves on the Business Advisory Council at UNF where he also spends time mentoring students.
“When I speak with students, I assure them that you don’t have to have everything figured out when you graduate,” Kalin said. “Success will come if you work hard, are excited and engaged, and deliver everything that’s expected from you.”
As a mentor, this energetic leader encourages students to pursue lifelong learning by keeping a pulse on current events through reading reputable news media outlets and staying on top of industry trends in real time. He also recommends students focus on connecting and building relationships with others.
“Your network starts now,” Kalin said. “It’s important to maintain those connections. You never know when you may cross paths again.”
To achieve career success, he encourages students to be likeable, trustworthy, and a team player.
“People want to do business with people that they like and who honor their commitments,” Kalin said.
This JAXUSA partner has been recognized as a leader in the community as a recipient of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 award. He is also an alumnus of Leadership Jacksonville and Lifework Leadership.
He recommends individuals concentrate on their personal goals and achievements, rather than compare themselves to their peers.
“The only person you should be trying to beat is the person you were yesterday. If you focus on what you can control, be the best you can be, and surround yourself with other positive, like-minded individuals, career opportunities will find you,” Kalin said.
Carlson secured an incredibly valuable internship at Dun & Bradstreet, gaining on-the-job experience while attending the University of Miami. Upon graduation, she received an offer to transition into full-time employment at the company’s Jacksonville headquarters.
“I was fortunate to land a virtual internship during the summer of 2021 and extend it throughout my senior year,” said Carlson, a People Operations Analyst at Dun & Bradstreet. “This is my first professional job and it has been exciting to start my career at Dun & Bradstreet in Jacksonville.”
Dun & Bradstreet is a leading global provider of business decisioning data and analytics, and assists companies around the world to improve their business performance. People Operations is a modern interpretation of the responsibilities of a human resources department within an organization, focusing on putting the employee first.
In her role at Dun & Bradstreet, Carlson helps manage the employee journey including orientation and onboarding for new hires. She supports the People Business Partners and the HRIS (HR information systems) Team. She also assists the Early Careers Program Manager with internship program recruitment and operations – the same program that introduced her to Dun & Bradstreet. Carlson relocated to Jacksonville in June 2022.
“It was an exciting time to join Dun & Bradstreet as they were moving their headquarters to Jacksonville,” Carlson said.
Like many students, Carlson was exploring a variety of career pathways during her junior year of college. The internship experience helped her discover her passion, skills and strengths, which is essential for career success.
“I enjoy working with people and achieving business objectives,” Carlson said. “The People Team at Dun & Bradstreet turned out to be an excellent fit for me to learn and grow.”
During her internship, Carlson participated in a rotational training program within the People Team. The experience provided her with skill development and unique insight to support business divisions and corporate functions across the company.
“After exploring the different areas, I gained an understanding of my ideal first job,” Carlson said. “I knew what I wanted before committing to a full-time opportunity.”
Carlson has a strong work ethic and thrives on innovation and embodying the company’s core values. She says collaborating and assisting others throughout the company – both locally and globally – is the most rewarding part of her position. Carlson appreciates the company culture at Dun & Bradstreet.
“The support I have received from my team and my leader throughout my time at Dun & Bradstreet has been amazing,” Carlson said. “Everyone supports your growth and wants you to succeed.”
Like many young professionals, Carlson would have relocated anywhere for the right position. She’s happy her career brought her to Jacksonville.
“Jacksonville is one of the hottest job markets and has so much to offer,” Carlson said. “I enjoy the beaches, the restaurants and the St. Johns Town Center where our headquarters is located. There is something for everyone in Jacksonville.”
“I had an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) but wasn’t sure which career pathway I wanted to pursue,” said Riley, a Business Analyst for Citi, Personal Banking & Wealth Management Technology (PBWMT). “This initiative has helped me grow my career in so many ways.”
Riley, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of North Florida in 2022, completed four Citi internships – two in high school and two at the college level – before transitioning into a full-time employee. Riley discovered working in technology at Citi has laid the foundation for an exciting career path.
“The program offers wonderful, valuable information about the working in the world of technology, which offers many different opportunities for career growth,” Riley said.
Citi’s “Women in IT” program was launched by employees from Citi’s Jacksonville division to inspire more high school and college women to consider careers in technology and in response to troubling statistics. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, since 1984, the percentage of female computer science graduates has dropped from 37% to 24%. While women make up more than half of the U.S. workforce, they hold just 25% of the jobs in technical or computing fields.
Michelle Carrico, Senior VP/Program Manager for Citi, PBWMT, has been involved with the “Women in IT” program since its inception. Program leaders were exploring innovative ways to identify, mentor, and hire talent while supporting the bank’s commitment to gender diversity. They wanted to invest in and develop a pipeline of female technology professionals.
“We have been working hard to address this talent gap and to encourage women to consider a wide range of roles in technology,” ” Carrico said. “Even though coding is important and foundational, there are many other roles in technology that don’t require you to work with code every day.”
In Citi’s “Women in IT” program, high school interns are introduced to technology skills, meet technology professionals and explore more about what it means to work in tech. The curriculum is designed to build confidence, inspire students to learn more and reduce the misconception that "IT is not for me."
Both high school and college-level interns are placed on a variety of technology teams, including project management, software development, data science, business analysis, design, architecture and more. Along with mentoring and networking opportunities, they develop a strong understanding of the industry and the skills that are in demand. The experience is designed to show students the career possibilities in technology and link their interest to various roles offered within the field.
“I am grateful for this program, which has helped me grow my career,” Riley said. “I got my first taste of professional networking and working with mentors.”
Now Riley is serving as a mentor to new Citi interns.
“Watching Kendall’s growth and professional development since she started the program has been phenomenal,” Carrico said. “Our interns have the opportunity to work on different teams and they are so well-rounded after they complete the program. When they transition into a full-time position, they bring all of that knowledge into their new role at Citi.”
“The Academy was such a positive experience,” said Thomas, a Digital Experience Program Analyst at VyStar Credit Union and 2012 Fleming Island High School graduate. “It offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience and interact with company executives. It allowed me to develop relationships that have helped shape my career.”
“The Academy provided me with the opportunity to gain work experience that I couldn’t learn in a classroom,” said Bokretsion, a Senior Business Process Analyst at VyStar Credit Union and 2013 Jean Ribault High School graduate who participated in the Academy the first year it was offered at Ribault.
The VyStar Academy of Business is an academic and internship program for high school students. Students participate in an engaging real world experience that brings their learning to life while focusing on the inner workings of financial services, growing technology and essentially what it takes to run their own business. The cornerstone of the academy is an operating VyStar branch run exclusively by students and available to everyone on the high school campus. With the exception of lending services, the 18 high school branches stretched across eight school districts have everything other VyStar branch locations have to offer.
Both Bokretsion and Thomas got their start at VyStar working as tellers at their high school branch locations. After high school, Thomas attended St. Johns River State College and also worked in the VyStar Contact Center. After one year, she transferred to Harding University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. She returned to VyStar in 2017 as a Senior High School Branch coordinator before receiving a promotion to her current position, which focuses on VyStar’s digital banking experience.
“The financial services industry is evolving and there are many opportunities if you have the drive to learn,” Thomas said.
Bokretsion attended the University of Florida before transferring to the University of North Florida. She returned to VyStar in 2015, working part-time as a Teller Specialist while she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. After graduation, she joined VyStar full-time as a Marketing Specialist and advanced to Mergers & Acquisition Marketing Specialist before receiving a promotion to her current position.
“The opportunities for continued growth at VyStar are exciting,” Bokretsion said.
Although Bokretsion and Thomas did not graduate with financial services degrees, both are experiencing career advancement and success as a result of their initiative and employability skills.
“Our professional skills – communicating and problem solving – are critical and have helped both of us advance in our careers,” Thomas said.
For those considering applying to a VyStar Academy, Bokretsion offers this advice.
“It’s excellent work experience, even if you don’t pursue a career in this field,” Bokretsion said.
Dr. Abba Zubair, MD, PhD is a Clinical Pathologist specializing in Transfusion Medicine and stem cell research at Mayo Clinic. Dr. Zubair grew up in Nigeria, Africa fascinated by the dream of being an astronaut. A student advisor told him that he was smart and could do anything, but to pick something else. After all, Nigeria wasn’t sending rockets into the air.
Events in Dr. Zubair’s young life prompted a shift from becoming an astronaut into an interest in healthcare. He chose to be a doctor and began his studies in England. As a student, Dr. Zubair got a green card through the lottery system and pursued his education in the United States. At the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School, he studied tumor immunology, pathology and laboratory medicine, and transfusion medicine. He worked at Brigham & Women, Dana Farber Cancer Center and Boston Children’s Hospital while at Harvard before moving to Jacksonville.
Despite Dr. Zubair’s numerous research activities, publications, professional memberships and various lectureships and awards, interacting with high school and college students through programs and mentorship is extremely satisfying. “It’s exciting to talk to new generations and encourage them to open their eyes and see that the sky’s the limit.”
Recently, Dr. Zubair’s research has launched into space. Collaborating with the Florida Program Research in Space and the ISS National Laboratory Center for Advancement of Science in Space, he submitted a grant to test a basic research idea and translate it to patient care. The premise: studying cell behavior in space may lead to new therapies to treat stroke patients, specifically those with hemorrhagic stroke. From a research perspective, it takes months to grow cells. So, what is the effect of zero gravity on the growth of stem cells? Would cells grow faster and be safe to use for human application?
“Space research is totally different,” Dr. Zubair indicated. “Simple activities must be re-engineered and tested for effectiveness. One rocket carries everything, from food to military hardware and research materials—you are competing with others who want to be on the shuttle at Kennedy Space Center. It may take months to years to get your project up to the top of the queue. You use astronauts to conduct your research project, some of whom need training.”
In space, cells are grown, fed, and harvested. Photos of cells were taken and shared in real time to study behavior. Dr. Zubair’s team has an exact replica of the space study in the Mayo lab as a control. Staff go to the lab at night to feed the cells at the same time to mirror the feeding times of cells in space.
Many space samples have returned via a capsule that lands by balloon into the ocean. It’s retrieved out of the ocean and Fed Ex’ed to the Mayo lab. Dr. Zubair stated that the real action starts when sample comes back and is compared to lab grown cells.
Dr. Zubair’s team is organizing space data and synthesizing findings. Of the more than fifteen thousands genes analyzed, up to seven thousand were impacted by being in space. The evaluations showed short-term exposure to radiation in space did not cause significant cell damage or cause them to become cancerous. Out of the three types of cells studied, one
type showed enhanced immune suppressive property which suggests it can be used in preventing rejection of organs and controlling inflammation. Dr. Zubair said he and this team will need to re-test this study in space before drawing conclusions. This process will take time—years in fact—before patients can be treated with space-grown cells.
Dr. Zubair has lived in Jacksonville for 17 years. He emphasized that Florida is an ideal location to pursue a biomedical career involving space research, due to Mayo’s proximity to the Kennedy Center. Of pursuing the biomedical field, he stresses, “Never waste time. Get all of the credentials you need quickly. Education is like a marathon. There will be a struggle, so you can’t focus on the immediate. There is joy in the journey. Go where the opportunities are that excite you. It may look painful going to class and taking exams, but when you achieve your goal, you’ll appreciate it.”
Wanting a life that looked more like an action movie, with frequent plot twists and turns, Dr. Zubair has found joy in biomedicine. He proves that realizing your dreams may not take the shape you initially intended. Dr. Zubair hasn’t set foot in space, but his work has travelled there and back.
For more, watch the video at https://www.issnationallab.org/blog/stem-cell-research-results-published-zubair/
Life experiences can shape a career pathway and guide decisions in your life. After working in the insurance industry and as an animal control officer, Brad Nazworth, BSN, RN, was inspired by his time caring for a loved one with a serious illness to explore a career path in nursing.
“As I was caring for my father-in-law, who was critically ill, I discovered I had an aptitude for helping him though that process,” Nazworth said. “Taking care of him motivated me to go back to school and pursue a career in nursing.”
Nazworth is a critical care nurse in the Medical-Surgical Intensive Care Unit (MSICU) at Baptist Health. The 20-bed unit is accountable for providing care to critical patients that require a higher acuity of care.
There are many ways to enter into a nursing career. Nazworth attended the University of North Florida (UNF) and graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN) from the Brooks School of Nursing at UNF. The school offers a wide variety of nursing programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and provides students with clinical experiences prior to graduation.
“I highly recommend UNF’s School of Nursing,” Nazworth said. “The faculty is extremely supportive and has provided helpful connections in my career.”
Nazworth joined Baptist Health in 2014 as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) and worked in several different departments within the hospital. He discovered his passion for patient care while working in the ICU.
“I am proud to be an ICU nurse and I would not want to work anywhere else,” Nazworth said.
After graduating with his registered nurse (RN) license, Nazworth was hired to work as a critical care nurse in the MSICU. Critical care nurses perform patient assessments, administer treatment and provide support during recovery. They interact with physicians and other departments within the hospital and they educate patients and their families about patients’ illness and plan of care.
“While the patient is the priority, their family also becomes an important part of your patient’s care,” Nazworth said.
The unit has been nationally recognized with awards including the Daisy Award, honoring the teamwork, collaboration and compassionate care nurses provide for their patients and families. Nazworth says working in the ICU is intensely challenging and extremely rewarding.
“Our unit’s physicians, nurses and other staff work together as a team to support each other and provide the highest level of care to our patients,” Nazworth said. “The ICU provides the opportunity for me to have an impact on a patient’s care every day, and that’s a big deal to me.”
Nazworth is passionate about advancing the nursing profession. He serves on Baptist Health’s clinical informatics committee, which is working to combine traditional bedside nursing skills with advanced healthcare information technology. Nazworth teaches continuing education classes on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), commonly used to provide renal support for critically ill patients with acute kidney injury. He also stays connected with UNF, offering guidance and support to students enrolled in the nursing school program.
“Anyone can learn but you have to have the drive, personality and desire if you want to achieve a career in nursing,” Nazworth said.
Stacey Prince loves being part of the healthcare field. Her role as a Senior Specialist for Release of Information at Mayo Clinic allows her to work at the intersection of laws and technology as they apply to the medical field. She sees opportunities for continued growth in an evolving industry that offers her some patient interaction and a lot of opportunity to flex her critical thinking muscles.
Stacey graduated from St. Johns River State College nearly two years ago with her AS degree in Health Information Technology. After a career in the finance industry, she stepped away to care for her children. When considering re-entry into the workforce Stacey carefully evaluated her options. She monitored employment trends and looked at the political landscape. The Affordable Care Act helped prompt her to pursue additional post-secondary education. She states, “I saw (healthcare) as a growing industry with a lot of opportunity for me to foster a brand new career.”
In her role at Mayo, she used transferable skills from finance and applies them to the non-clinical side of healthcare. However, she cites the training received at SJR State as fundamental to her everyday work. Understanding and retaining legal vocabulary and standards learned there has been critical, as her work involves adherence to public health-related guidelines like HIPAA.
Job satisfaction is clear as Stacey describes what she likes about the industry. In under two years at Mayo, her current role has evolved. She has been part of two new system roll-outs. She likes the urgency of finding resolutions for uses that impact patients in a dynamic environment. She enjoys applying her knowledge to make decisions. She sees the potential for continued change as the ways in which information I shared changes. Stacey realizes that new jobs will emerge because of changing technology, and “we (the industry) will be able to shape that change.”
Stacey has been part of the pivotal and efficient mobilization of resources that has accompanied COVID-19. Her role has increased in depth, which will help her be even more valuable. When asked how she would encourage someone when considering a role on the business side of healthcare, Stacey said taking an entry-level class in Allied Health confirmed her passion. It reinforced her interest that she was headed in the right direction. She also believes that the business side of healthcare is “broader than you think. It’s bigger than medical coding. It allows you to land inside the scope of medical records but no two situations are the same.”
Now that she is an SJR State alum, Stacey also enjoys having great mentorships from professors and administrators she met at the college. They continue providing guidance and her direction and serve as a support system as her role grows and changes. She’s also involved in professional organizations, as she finds it helpful to surround herself with other professionals who are committed to the work.
Stacey is looking forward to a long and fulfilling career in health information management. “I picked an industry that I had not ever considered before. It turns out that this is the field that ignites my passion and imagination. It’s a reminder that your passion can find you in unexpected places, and I am grateful that mine has found me.”
The business side of health needs processionals with a passion like Stacey’s. If you seek a career pathway that will offer constant growth and change, consider Health Information Technology.
"This isn't a field for someone who wants instant gratification, " says Sarah Elam, a Cytoprep Lab Technician with Aurora Diagnostics/Bernhardt Laboratories.
Sarah grew up in Fort Smith, Arkansas. At 19, she obtained a position as a medical receptionist for a clinic specializing in cardiology that housed seven cardiologists including two electrophysiologists. This change from working in her family's retail store allowed her to help people in a new way and sparked her interest in clinical medicine.
Sarah obtained EKG and Phlebotomy certifications while continuing to work in Medical Scribing, which helped solidify her ultimate goal of being a physician. By transcribing everything a doctor says and does, she applied what she learned about medical terminology from her receptionist role.
When looking at additional educational pursuits, Sarah was drawn to Keiser University's Jacksonville campus for the Biomedical Science program. The program outline worked with her schedule. Its accelerated approach provided rigorous but manageable coursework allowing students to focus on one subject at a time in a small classroom environment. Sarah notes, "Biomedicine is an emerging field. Taking courses such as Biology of Cancer and Genetics were interesting and necessary. This degree can lead to pre-med or allow a person to branch off into so many aspects, like research, physician's assistant, and anesthesiology."
After graduating from Keiser University with a BS in Biomedical Science in 2019, Sarah chose to continue her education at the University of Florida to obtain her Master of Science in Microbiology and Biochemistry. Ultimately, Sarah hopes this degree will give her an edge when applying for and succeeding in medical school. Her ideal choice for medical school is Jacksonville's Mayo Clinic. Regarding the discipline involved in pursuing one's education, Sarah states, "Do not procrastinate. Find a good support group that you can rely on to keep you accountable whether it be a professor, a family member, or friends."
While pursuing her studies, Sarah works a night shift at Aurora Diagnostics/Bernhardt laboratories. Her lab technician role involves preparing and staining slides containing women's health samples for microscopic evaluation. These results allow physicians to diagnose patients. Sarah also maintains quality control of the stains, reagents, and instruments used while processing specimens.
Successful lab technicians are self-starters who can prioritize and think critically about steps or processes to follow, according to Sarah. She indicates that a tech needs to be able to think about an entire workflow plan to complete processing of samples, which range from 200-800 daily.
Sarah's career course has evolved over time, as well as her reasons for being so passionate about the field. She says, "Initially, I wanted to learn and help people. That's still true, but it goes deeper than that. Pursuing healthcare has enabled me to experience a vast amount of personal growth that I could not fathom in any other field. I do not see this as a job, but as a lifestyle."
According to the FSCJ website, the role of the Ophthalmic Technician is to “manage ocular diseases and optical measurements.” Technicians help doctors treat eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, as well as fit patients for contact lenses and glasses.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers an Ophthalmic Technician Associate of Science degree, one of only 12 such programs in the nation. This program is accredited by the International Council of Accreditation for Allied Ophthalmic Education Programs (ICA). Recent high school graduates, career changers, and trailing spouses of military veterans have all taken advantage of this educational opportunity.
Eye care is a part of the healthcare industry and is very diversified. For example, 80 ophthalmologists practice in greater Jacksonville. They work in large group practices, institutional practices such as UF and Mayo, and in individual private practices that vary in size. Some practices specialize in a specific subspecialty-- such as retina or pediatrics or glaucoma--and some are comprehensive or multi-specialty practices. Ophthalmic Techs can choose to specialize as well, in accordance with their interest and talent.
Currently, a shortage of Ophthalmic Technicians exists in Jacksonville. Cathy Titus, FSCJ Professor and Interim Program Director of Ophthalmic Technology, said, “Our program boasts a 100 percent job placement rate. Physicians frequently reach out to us, asking when the next group of graduates will be ready to work. “
As many ophthalmic skills are manual and require practice to master, the program offers work-based learning opportunities that are integrated into curriculum via clinicals. Students will spend 840 hours in an externship over the course of study. Clinical hours spent outside of the classroom increase as the student moves through the program. For example, clinical hours range from 120, 240, 480 hours as students complete corresponding semesters.
In 2019, the program had a certification exam pass rate of 75 percent with a 100 percent completion and 100 percent employment rate. If students do not pass the test, they are still hired, learn more skills on the job, and pass their test the next time they sit for the exam. The program can accommodate even more students who are looking for immediate job offers after program completion.
According to Dr. Jeffrey Levenson, the program’s Medical Director and owner of Levenson Eye Associates since 1988, “Everyone who graduates gets a job and has the opportunity to make it not just a job but a career.” Among the companies who have hired recent graduates are Florida Eye Specialists, Mayo Clinic and Levenson Eye Associates. Many techs advance to become office managers and clinical researchers, using their training and experience as a springboard.
One aspect of the program that allows students to demonstrate learning and directly impact the community is the partnership with Vision is Priceless, a Jacksonville charitable organization. According to their website, they help “assess, sustain, and improve the visual health of children and adults in Northeast Florida,” providing nearly 40,000 free vision screenings and nearly 1,400 eye exams to the underserved of our community. A clinic is set up onsite at FSCJ; students provide care to those who would otherwise be unable to receive it, supervised by volunteer doctors. According to Titus, “Students find great satisfaction in putting their learning to work in service to others.” In doing so, students use their skills to add value to their community in a distinctly helpful way.
Students find that graduating from the program meets and exceeds their expectations. Darian Jakubec from the Class of 2019 said, "After becoming a Certified Ophthalmic Technician my career really lifted off. I have the FSCJ Ophthalmic Technician Program to thank for providing me exactly what I was looking for, a firm foundation in a long-term career and passion for rewarding responsibilities that offer endless learning opportunities and experiences. Even after graduating, the program still provides me with guidance and chances to volunteer."
To learn more about the Ophthalmic Technician program, check out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSbRAV931CE
Healthcare offers abundant employment opportunities. Kateita (Kat) Hasanovic, MSN, RN-BC, discovered growth, opportunity, and leadership at Baptist Health by being open to new possibilities in her career pathway.
Hasanovic is the Inpatient Implementation Director on the Epic Project Team at Baptist Health. Under the leadership of Vice President and Chief Medical Information Officer Stacey Johnson, MD, Baptist Health is transitioning to the Epic system to improve health data exchange and access across the hospital.
"The Epic platform will facilitate communication between providers throughout Baptist Health," Hasanovic said. "It improves the quality of patient care by enhancing care coordination and clinical decision-making."
Technology has changed healthcare since Hasanovic arrived at Baptist Health more than 20 years ago after graduating from West Nassau High School. Her first job involved transporting patients around the main hospital.
"At the time, I had no intention of being a nurse," Hasanovic said. "While working in transportation, I could see there were many opportunities at the hospital. I have always been a person who strives to accomplish more."
Hasanovic continued to work at Baptist Health after enrolling in Florida State College of Jacksonville, moving within the hospital to work as a department secretary. Initially, Hasanovic thought she would like to pursue pharmacy as a career pathway. Physician James Joyner, MD., encouraged her to consider nursing.
"Dr. Joyner said I had the personality that should be directly involved with patients," Hasanovic said. "It was a pivotal moment in my life."
Hasanovic earned her associates degree in nursing at FSCJ and began working as a registered nurse at Baptist Health after passing the state board examination. She worked in labor and delivery for more than 12 years, including as assistant nurse manager. During this time, she was selected for Baptist Health's Emerging Leaders program.
"This leadership development program opened my eyes and changed my mindset," Hasanovic said. "If your goal is to move up in an organization, you have to continue your education so that you have the knowledge to contribute to the conversation."
With support from Baptist Health's tuition reimbursement program, Hasanovic attended Jacksonville University and earned a bachelor's degree and master's degree focused on Nursing Administration. Doors opened to more opportunities. A colleague approached Hasanovic to consider a new position in Clinical Informatics, helping to drive the organization's application of techniques. Hasanovic spent nearly 10 years in clinical informatics at Baptist Health, first as a specialist before a promotion to manager and then system director.
"It's important to have a healthcare professional directing and leading IT clinical initiatives," Hasanovic said. "Clinical informatics specialists serve as a liaison between information technology and the healthcare team, with the goal of improving the care provided to patients by making sure clinicians have the tools they need."
Hasanovic is passionate about her career, and she encourages others to consider the tremendous opportunities in healthcare.
"Healthcare is more than doctors and nurses," Hasanovic said. "The hospital is a city of opportunity with a need for a wide range of professionals and workers."
Kensley Hoover is a clinician in the field of Occupational Therapy working for Brooks Rehabilitation at Memorial Hospital. She is a native of Waycross, Georgia, but now calls Jacksonville home. While in high school and college, Kensley didn’t have a plan or a set career pathway in mind. Her parents told her she needed to “go to college no matter what,” but she wasn’t certain that she would do with her degree.
Once Kensley earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia Southern University, she got involved with the Miracle League and Special Olympics, which provides abled children and adolescents with physical and intellectual disabilities the option to engage in sports where she worked with children specifically with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome. This experience prompted interest in occupational therapy (OT).
When Kensley began exploring this option, she was told she would need to wait a full year to apply for OT schooling. She wanted to act sooner, so she explored the Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy program at Keiser University in Jacksonville. Within one week, she was accepted and enrolled. Kensley commuted daily for 16 months from Waycross to Jacksonville to attend classes at Keiser. “I look at back at that and wonder how I did it,” she said.
While at Keiser, Kensley took advantage of the work study program. She was paid to work in the college’s Nursing Department, where she scanned, uploaded, and organized documents for the director and instructors as well as assist with various clerical duties. This opportunity provided gas money Kensley needed for her daily commute. However, it also opened doors that have profoundly impacted her career.
After graduating from Keiser University, Kensley took a position at a small hospital in Georgia which provided her valuable work experience. Kensley was soon to be married and with her husband’s job, it would result in a move to Jacksonville. Luckily, Kensley continued to keep in touch with the former nursing director at Keiser University; they conversed about various job opportunities that lead to Kensley applying for a per diem position with Brooks rehab at Memorial Hospital with the nursing director providing a letter of recommendation. Ultimately, Kensley interviewed and was offered the job as a float per diem therapist between Brooks Rehab Hospital and Memorial Hospital. This required her to leave behind a full-time job, all while planning a wedding. After a year of commitment and training, Kensley was officially hired as a full-time occupational therapy assistant at Brooks Rehab at Memorial Hospital. “It was a big leap of faith, but it was definitely worth it!”
Kensley has been actively working at Memorial for two years with her focus in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and Trauma ICU. She states, “I love being there for people even on their worst days. I’m there for a lot of firsts. First steps, first time to bathroom, toileting, dressing, grooming. After a big event like stroke, open-heart surgery or car accident it’s a major accomplishment. It is very rewarding knowing that I helped them achieve their goals.” Alongside patient care, Kensley is active with multi-disciplinary rounding in the ICU, conducts new hire training, participate with education fairs training for nurses, and transfer training.
Admittedly, working as an OT in the ICU can be daunting, as individuals enter the hospital with severe, medically complex illnesses and injuries. Kensley stresses the importance of being that familiar source of encouragement, compassion, and education for patients as well as their families. It helps to explain the entire process of treatment, as some treatment may look like they cause pain but are meant to increase optimal mobility, stimulate cognition, or decrease ICU delirium. “In the ICU, I help patients the best way I know how. It’s about progressing the patient to their maximum capability.” Sometimes, patients experience coma or death, so Kensley works through those emotions. “It’s hard not to bring it home.”
Kensley sites her grandmother as someone whose legacy impacted her career pathway. During WWII, while her husband was in the Navy, her trailblazing grandmother opened her home to anyone who needed shelter and a hot meal. This hospitality morphed into starting a soup kitchen, which then evolved into a nursing home. Eventually, Kensley’s entrepreneurial-minded grandmother operated six nursing homes. “She was an amazing woman and she cared a lot about others. Mom went into finance and took on the business side of all the nursing homes. Eventually, she and my dad ran the homes.” This influence continues in Kensley’s work. Outside of her professional scope, she tries to help others who are vulnerable. She carries packs of water, protein bars, and hygiene products in her car to be able to help anyone at any time.
Kensley’s advice to anyone thinking about going into occupational therapy? “Volunteer, request to job shadow an OT for a day, and make connections to explore the field.” She also notes “Don’t be surprised when your employer states you’ll work a few holidays. People don’t think about therapy being needed on a holiday. People can decline rapidly and need the continued mobilization in a hospital setting.” Kensley also liked to add that there are so many settings in which a therapist can work. “You go into it thinking you’ll work in an outpatient facility or a school. You may not consider doing therapy in a hospital working with a dementia patient or doing therapy for a patient in hospice. OT is needed in all settings and play important roles with physical and mental recovery.“
Ascension St. Vincent’s, a Catholic healthcare ministry with a mission to “go where the need is greatest and care for the most vulnerable” is one of Northeast Florida’s largest healthcare organizations. Matthew Steinmetz, Business Development Manager at Ascension St. Vincent’s, enjoys the mission-driven community impact of the health system. Matthew’s roles have allowed him to assist in developing relationships that further the reach of the organization, allowing it increased opportunities to provide quality, compassionate care throughout Northeast Florida.
Matthew’s career pathway was intentional; he approached his education from a strategic long-term perspective. At Florida State University, Matthew studied Interdisciplinary Social Sciences and earned a bachelor’s degree. He was passionate and interested in the curriculum. However, he chose this course of study as a way to continue pursuit of his education. Matthew selected the University of North Florida (UNF) for his master’s degree because, “It’s a competitive school and the dual master’s MBA and Health Administration program allowed me to complete in three years.”
While at UNF, he had the opportunity for an internship with some of the administrators at Ascension St. Vincent’s, many of whom had financial backgrounds. Matthew’s approach to finance work within the health care industry was very intentional, as this background can elevate one’s career. He said, “It’s common that the next person to take the CEO role is the CFO, as they have served in an operational role.” While interning, a position opened at Ascension St. Vincent’s as a Financial Analyst. Matthew took the role and was involved in the continued development of Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County, a 134-bed hospital which opened in 2013 and has since completed two additional facility expansions.
Matthew has taken on the role of Business Development Manager, allowing him to facilitate new and maintain strong business partnerships. “It’s about the relationships more than anything. It’s the heartwarming part of the organization. Relationships allow us to improve the quality of care rather than us working separately. These partnerships allow us to ensure that best care that can possibly be provided will be provided.”
Recently, Matthew was part of creating a new partnership between two organizations and Ascension Florida and Gulf Coast, the regional health system that includes Ascension St. Vincent’s, Ascension Sacred Heart based in Pensacola, and Ascension Providence in Mobile, Alabama that will facilitate increased services for individuals needing musculoskeletal care, particularly orthopedics. Each entity contributes resources resulting in synergy that benefits each organization and its patients. As Ascension St. Vincent’s continues to expand its footprint, it will “continue to consistently improve quality, communication, and all aspects of care,” according to Matthew.
When asked what he enjoys about his role within the business side of Healthcare, Matthew states, “Every day’s a different day. I chose this industry because healthcare is constantly evolving. Also, it seemed more recession-proof than other careers.” Matthew notes that Ascension St. Vincent’s made a point to do everything possible to assist its staff and protect their pay when the COVID-19 pandemic began. “I’m really proud to work for a company that made this kind of commitment.”
Matthew realizes the important role education has played in his career pathway and encourages others to seek out post-secondary opportunities. “Education is really important in healthcare. Many of my col- leagues are returning to school for master’s degrees to position themselves for what could be next.” He encourages individuals to take advantage of company-sponsored training programs and tuition reimbursement, as it can serve as a fantastic career laddering opportunity. “Plan for the long-term. Know your goals. Don’t worry about titles and money. People chase titles and money. Be intentional about your career.”
For many, their experience with firefighters starts and ends with an elementary school field trip. However, for some, it is a viable career pathway and a passion that burns as bright as the very flames they extinguish.
For Sammie Fendig, Firefighter for the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD), firefighting offers the opportunity to execute learned skills and satisfy a driven, adrenaline-junkie nature. "It's unlike anything else," she says.
Sammie grew up in Fernandina Beach and obtained a much-loved summer job as a lifeguard for ocean rescue at age 17. At age 18, she took a First Responder class, incentivized by the pay raise that accompanied successful completion. "I fell in love with it immediately. I still remember my first rescue," says Sammie. Clearly, this summer job influenced her future career choice. "I've learned that many lifeguards joined the fire service. It's a natural segue. It also pays better than other entry-level jobs."
Despite her positive initial reaction to an occupation involving risk, physical fitness and saving lives, she enrolled in school as an art major at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), where she studied photography and graphic design while holding various food service jobs. Sammie enjoyed art, but she wanted something different.
After earning her Associates degree, Sammie bought a one-way ticket to Costa Rica, where she spent three months immersing herself in an entirely new culture. This experience allowed her to consider next steps. "I needed this time to grow and gain more confidence."
Upon returning home, she enrolled in and completed FSCJ's Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic programs, which led directly to Fire School at First Coast Technical College in St. Augustine.
Individuals begin as Probationary Firefighters and can be promoted to Engineer (Driver). Regardless of experience, starting a job at a new firehouse requires starting at the bottom. After completing Fire School, Sammie worked for the St. Johns Fire Rescue. There, she grew her skills for 5 years before taking a job with the JFRD as she is interested in working for an aggressive major metropolitan fire department.
Firefighters work 10-11 shifts per month and are on for 24 hours and off for 48 hours. Firefighting exemplifies a paramilitary-style hierarchy in an extended family environment. Sammie states, "You live in a house with these people every third day. There's a close dynamic and inside jokes. Of a firefighter's rookie year, Sammie likens it to having a first-year learning curve on a typical job combined with additional challenges. "You need to prove yourself. You need to listen more than you talk."
Firefighting involves a combination of skill, knowledge, experience, and gut instinct to successfully execute a firefighting strategy. A healthy respect for the danger involved in fighting fires cannot border on fear. A sense of urgency drives quick decision-making. Where people may think it's just about "running into a building," it involves understanding the science behind fire behavior, requiring knowledge of construction, building codes, electrical and plumbing systems.
There's also math behind fighting fires. For example, if an average engine holds 500 gallons of water, firefighters must calculate how long it will last on an internal or external fire depending on its structure and other factors until other engines arrive. Calculations are made against the backdrop of a critical situation involving life and property.
While Sammie knew firefighting was a perfect fit, others may want to first explore this potential career pathway. She encourages a ride-a-long and says, "EMT is a semester long. Even if you don't choose this pathway, it's worth your time to learn these skills, particularly CPR." She's seen others get into paramedic programs and then pursue nursing or medical school, for example. So, this training can be a springboard to healthcare or to public service.
Ultimately, Sammie says of her career choice, "It's never entered my mind that I couldn't do it. I just want to be the hardest working person in the room."
You may ask yourself if this role is too good to be true: working 9 months on and three months off all while receiving full benefits, paid time off, and incentive bonuses? A job where you can self-select to go full time, or remain on the schedule above? A job where you can pursue educational opportunities on the “off” time while still having access to a variety of amenities such as golf and basketball to stay healthy as well as continued networking with other colleagues?
This role exists and is in demand at GuideWell.
Member Care Specialist is a key role in meeting the mission of “helping people and communities achieve better health.” Each day, the Member Care Specialist handles between 20 to 40 consecutive calls of potential, new and existing customers which include individual members, group members, business decision makers and agents. Collectively, they receive 10 thousand calls on a slow day and 30 thousand calls on a busy day. Each call taken helps meet the hospital’s mission.
Member Care Specialists have one of the most critical roles in that they interface with the public on the company’s behalf. They’re helping to navigate a complicated system and ensure that members understand how to use their benefits. They also resolve inquiries and process transactions.
When the job was initially created, previous call center experience was required. However, the HR team soon realized they needed individuals with a collaborative, customer service background which could include retail or volunteering. George Cross, Sr. Director, Member Service Center indicated, “These roles turn into professional translators. You are learning another language of medical and insurance terminology. For example, co-pays versus deductibles. What is the difference between oncology and hematology? What is primary care? What constitutes a specialty drug? Your job is to listen to the situation and translate it into the customer’s situation. How good are you at this translation process?” Good customer service involves listening skills and being able to articulate ideas that may seem intimidating to members.
Being able to respond to member calls involves not only a thorough understanding of their plan’s features and benefits, but ultimately involves truly caring about each unique situation. Cross recognizes the importance of “a heart for service. I can teach you the technical knowledge, but I can’t teach you to care. If you like helping people and solving problems, this can be a long-term career path.”
A genuine interest in helping people will allow Member Care Specialists to succeed, particularly when they learn to apply empathy and listening skills to various situations. For example, learning to ask questions is essential. Cross said, “You can’t assume anything. You need to know the entire context of the situation. Someone could be calling in to get a new ID card. You don’t know if they just lost it or are taking their child to the hospital and are afraid they’ll be denied care. It’s important to ask good questions to lead people to answers.”
This position can serve as a launching pad for additional opportunities within the organization as well. Many examples exist throughout the organization of individuals who began on the phones and were promoted to other positions after several years. Ultimately, the Member Care Specialist role affords individuals to develop critical skills that impact members as well as their professional colleagues while truly helping others.
Almira utilized one of Jacksonville’s community-based organizations by joining BEAM’s Single Parent Program (SPP). With their help, Almira found a patient scheduler job at a local hospital. Almira also utilized another resource via the ASTEP program through Goodwill Industries of North Florida.
According to Goodwilljax.org, the “A-STEP program aims to provide working adults in North Florida access to higher education in order to elevate earning potentials and job security.” Almira applied to ASTEP and began taking classes at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) in mid-2015.
A year later, Almira’s position was outsourced. She persevered, landing a job working for a local healthcare system at the registration desk. For 2 years, Almira plugged away at completing pre-requisite classes. In 2017, she was accepted into the FSCJ respiratory therapy program.
Almira graduated in May of 2019 with an Associate in Science in Respiratory Care, despite issues that could have caused her to quit. She overcame health issues and severe test anxiety. She successfully passed 2 state exams in late summer 2019. Almira was immediately offered a position with Wolfson’s Hospital Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as a Respiratory Therapist. She loves working with children and giving individual care.
Almira says this about her profession in the patient side of healthcare: “I am so blessed to have been selected as a RTA on the NICU floor at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. I am grateful to be a part of an amazing medical team dedicated to helping the sickest (and youngest) patients with chronic respiratory problems increase their survival rate and improve quality of life through Respiratory Therapy. It is my passion. It is my heart. It is my lifelong dream and I couldn’t be happier.”
As a result of her persistence and work ethic, Almira closed on her very first home in the Arlington area in January 2020. Almira is one of many single mothers in the ASTEP program. She sets an example for how hard work and educational achievement in a growing career pathway leads to long-term success.
In a classroom equipped with four hospital beds, equipment, technology, and the requisite mannequins, Collins and Dewberry bring synergy and realism to their health science program, a co-hort model extending from freshman through senior year.
Students begin the Academy as freshmen and continue with the same co-hort through their senior year. As such, the group feels more like an extended family. This “family” is supported by regional businesses and education partners such as Baptist South, River Garden, St. Vincent’s, Keiser University, Florida State College at Jacksonville, University of North Florida, and Jersey College. They have impacted the program through their work on the Academy Advisory Board, providing clinical sites and donating equipment.
As Mrs. Collins is an RN and Mrs. Dewberry an EMT, they are constantly supplementing their instruction with real world experience from industry. RN’s and EMT’s approach their work very differently, as the scenario determines the response. Thus, students get a perspective from each teacher on how to respond to 12 patients needing continual care instead of 1 person needing emergency care.
As freshmen, students learn health science foundations, communication, and teamwork. Students are put into working groups selected by their teacher. “Students don’t get to pick their colleagues or their patients in the real world,” said Collins.
Each year builds on the prior year. Freshmen and sophomores will learn both soft and practical skills such as communication, First Aid/CPR, sterile technique, and vital signs. As juniors, students take Anatomy and Physiology with additional focus on diseases, treatments, prognoses, and careers. The senior courses prepare students for their certification tests.
Part of this preparation includes 16 clinical hours in a medical facility and completing lab hours on campus. When students are at Baptist South, they will be exposed to the Emergency Room, Radiology, and Cath Labs. Students have even been in surgery and post-surgery settings. There they practice the skills they have learned while shadowing professionals. When students say, “’I can read these charts’, they have moment of clarity and accomplishment” according to Dewberry.
Students learn about the multitude of opportunities in biomedicine that exist in Jacksonville. Participating in a virtual classroom with Brooks Rehabilitation allowed students to see how lasers, sensors and plates monitored an athlete jumping and generated data to best evaluate a knee injury. Students have also visited Medtronic to see the medical equipment produced.
Students leave the program with two certifications: CMAA and EKG Technician. The CMAA is an allied health credential which equips students for front office, scheduling, greeting patients and handling payments. Students must complete 10 live EKGs before they can sit for the exam.
Mandarin students participate in HOSA—Future Health Professionals, an extra-curricular activity aligned to national standards. HOSA teaches leadership through competition and community service. Mandarin HOSA is student run and consistently places in regional and state competitions. Students are now looking to compete globally.
Students succeed in the workforce following graduation. For example, one Mandarin graduate is now a lab assistant at Baptist’s downtown campus; several are nurses at Baptist locations. Another former student is mentoring a currently enrolled student. Many are pursuing their studies to be nurse practitioners and physical therapists. The value of this program extends beyond high school. Student Mandy Nguyen said, “The Medical Academy has given me the opportunity to gain and expand my knowledge in health care. This will set me up for success towards future education and careers.”
A graduate of the University of North Florida, Carter is an Associate Software Engineer at Forcura. Originally from Sarasota, Carter stayed in Jacksonville to begin his career after earning a bachelor’s degree in information systems and turning his short-term internship at Forcura into a rewarding full-time position.
“Everything I’m doing at Forcura is impacting someone’s daily life and making life more efficient,” Carter said.
Forcura’s platform enables safer patient care transitions and more effective coordination. It improves continuity of care via technology and analytics, and it is driven by the company’s deep commitment to enabling better patient care. Carter's focus is on the company’s core software and platform, with goals of maintaining optimimal functionality to improve and enhance the user’s everyday workflow.
“My contributions help make the information flow smoother,” Carter said. “I have the opportunity to be a part of the solution, which is very satisfying.”
Carter learned about internships at Forcura from a friend at UNF. At Forcura, attracting and retaining top talent through innovation and company culture is a high priority. The company has a successful internship program and has converted 70% of its interns to full-time employees since 2018. Carter is pleased to begin his career in Jacksonville.
Carter’s interest in technology developed as a middle school student. He enjoyed tinkering with computers and programming, and built his own computer as part of a school project. Carter knew he wanted to follow an educational and career path in technology. He earned an associate degree at the State College of Florida in Sarasota before transferring to UNF, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Information Systems.
Carter’s internship at Forcura revealed opportunities to share his technical background at a fast-paced company with a culture that thrives on collaboration and innovation. He says it was an invaluable experience that allowed him to begin developing his skills. Carter’s advice to other students is to work hard and take advantage of the opportunity for on-the-job training that an internship provides.
“It’s important to focus on the core concepts,” Carter said. “My internship provided the motivation to explore new ways of doing things, and it was very satisfying to work as part of a team.”
With remote learning required during his senior year due to the pandemic, Carter’s communication and interaction with industry professionals was limited. He was inspired by the Forcura internship because it offered the chance to network, receive feedback from colleagues and establish mentors. Carter wants to give back to UNF and would like to serve one day as a mentor to technology students.
“My internship was a critical step in my transition from school to my profession,” Carter said. “I want to make sure other students are getting the best learning experiences they can get before graduation.”
With more than 20 hospitals and medical institutions in Northeast Florida, there are plentiful career opportunities in patient care. Amber Gainer, RTR, CT, found her purpose providing patient-centered care as a radiologic technologist at Baptist Health.
“I take pictures all day long,” Gainer said. “There is nothing typical about my job. No two days are ever the same. I like that every day provides a new challenge and a new experience.”
Radiologic technologists perform X-rays and scans on all parts of a patient’s body for a variety of reasons. The images enable physicians to diagnose a disease, an acute condition or an injury. In addition to having the appropriate education in medical technologies, radiologic technologists are licensed and registered.
In 2013, Gainer took part in Tipping the Scale, a nationally recognized mentoring and advocacy program founded by Baptist Health and The Bridge of Northeast Florida. The program pairs Jacksonville high school students with Baptist Health team members who volunteer as mentors. The experience left a lasting impression on Gainer.
“I couldn’t see myself doing anything outside of health care,” Gainer said. “I was drawn to patient care and the sense of helping others.”
Gainer initially considered pursuing a career in veterinary medicine or pediatrics. She began her healthcare career working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA). After two years, Gainer wanted to take her career in a different direction.
Finding the right career resulted after Gainer began searching for opportunities and exploring different career pathways that appealed to her interests. She took advantage of shadowing to explore different jobs and discovered her passion.
“I had a job shadowing experience in the X-ray department and I fell in love with it,” Gainer said. “I knew it was the career for me.”
Gainer attended Florida State College at Jacksonville and Keiser University, where she earned an associate’s degree in Radiologic Technology and a bachelor’s degree in Imaging Sciences. After graduation, she earned her certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and was eligible to be licensed by the State of Florida.
Gainer returned to Baptist Health in 2019. Radiologic technologists play an important role in patient care. Gainer communicates with patients as well as physicians, nurses and other hospital personnel. Her job requires adaptability and working with others as a team.
“I enjoy being part of a system that helps people get better,” Gainer said. “My goal is to make every patient smile and to make sure I do the best for that patient.”
Gainer continues to advance her career with on-the-job training. In addition to her certifications in X-ray and CT, she is expanding her radiology expertise to include MRI modalities. She encourages everyone interested to consider and explore the vast opportunities in health care.
“There are so many career opportunities in hospitals and health care - more than most people realize,” Gainer said. “If you find something that interests you, pursue it.”
“No one grows up wanting to be an Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion Specialist (EVLP),” says Brandi Zofkie, General Manager of Jacksonville’s Lung Bioengineering facility in collaboration with Mayo Clinic Transplant Center. Brandi holds a BS in Biochemistry as well as MS degrees in both Public Health and Human Donation Science. Brandi initially used these skills and education in a non-profit space, serving in a procurement transplant coordinator role before making the transition into this aspect of biomedicine. Brandi has been on staff with United Therapeutics for seven years in an exciting career that saw her working in the Midatlantic, receiving training in Canada, and “transplanting” to Jacksonville.
Brandi’s current role can be traced to a scholarly project for a master’s program, which led her to make contact with a company to request some information and leading to a ventilator, pig lungs, and a dome to support her presentation. After beginning her career in the non-profit world, the relationships formed during the class project resulted in a hiring offer with United Therapeutics and six months of training at Toronto General Hospital, which created this niche within the biomedical space. United Therapeutics has the first EVLP service in the United States, including Brandi.
Organ procurement was Brandi’s focus, so this career transition to biomedicine initially felt risky. She wanted to ensure that she could still derive satisfaction from knowing that “every day, I did something to save someone’s life.” Brandi was used to working closely with families and transplant recipients seeking a variety of organs, so she was concerned the role would feel impersonal. However, fulfillment is still part of the work. To date, Brandi has helped ensure that well over 100 patients have received lifesaving lung transplants. She generates impactful results, but success is realized differently.
To best understand Brandi and her work with the Mayo Clinic via United Therapeutics, it helps to understand the context of this very innovative company for which she works, United Therapeutics. Dr. Martine Rothblatt, founder and CEO of United Therapeutics also founded what is now SiriusXM Satellite Radio. An attorney by trade, Dr. Rothblatt became an entrepreneur and later pursued her PhD in medical ethics after her daughter was diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). This patient population was too small to develop and sell medicines to assist those with PAH, so pharmaceutical companies were not willing to develop a drug that was just sitting on a shelf. Dr. Rothblatt started United Therapeutics to develop that drug now with multiple routes of administration (i.e., pump, inhalation, oral medication) to help patients like her daughter live. The next step after developing these drugs was to help influence more patients being able to receive lung transplants.
Less than 20 percent of all donor lungs are suitable for transplant. The EVLP process allows specialists like Brandi to support, maintain, and monitor donor lungs, as well as generate and analyze data to provide more information for decision making by the lung transplant program. The lungs are perfused with a blood-free solution and ventilated for several hours. A colleague of Brandi’s explains that the option to use EVLP can “help turn a ‘no’ into a ‘maybe’” regarding the availability for transplant of a donor lung, since these lungs would otherwise not have been used. Even lungs that fail may do so on the EVLP system rather than in the patient.
Donated lungs can be well-traveled before being transplanted. For example, a lung could be ex-planted from a donor on the west coast, sent to a Lung Bioengineering facility in Silver Spring, Maryland for evaluation, and then sent on to be transplanted at a center in other states including Illinois, Tennessee, or Florida’s Mayo Clinic. The company’s research studies are designed to show that lungs can come from anywhere in the continental United States.
Not only does Brandi need to understand the physical aspects of maintaining the lung, interpreting data, and providing information for physicians to make critical decisions about the use of the lung, but her role also involves non-medical, yet critical work creating inventory systems, writing standard operating procedures, and creating the structure for the department in their brand-new facility, expected to be live for transplants this fall. She also makes connections and develops relationships with the other providers that make operating a biomedical facility possible.
Brandi is excited for the potential of the industry, particularly as it relates to technology as a therapy platform to improve lungs that are currently unusable. Biomedical advances through future research could result in the rehabilitation and modification of lungs in the future, essentially making EVLP’s the “fixer uppers” of lungs to “flip” them to new owners. Brandi says, “We’re in startup mode. You wear a lot of hats and have to strike a balance to be successful. It’s really just about hard work and being dedicated to your mission. But, passion must be behind it. Don’t get into it without passion for it.” Good news for students in Northeast Florida? This field is growing rapidly, so the need for internships and a skilled workforce will only increase.
Loveann Burch entered the U.S. Navy a month after high school graduation and served for 14 years. In 2006, she qualified to advance to the medical personnel team, serving as a Corpsman in Orthopedics. This role is similar to a medical assistant, but with additional responsibilities.
In preparation to transition out of the military, Loveann began exploring educational options. She had taken college coursework throughout her career and wanted to transfer those credits. After careful research, Loveann chose the Biomedical program at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), earning a bachelor’s degree in 2018.
The program involves chemistry, anatomy, biology, physics, statistics, organic chemistry, quantitative analysis, scientific writing, critical thinking and communication. Loveann’s hands-on military experience set her up for success, as did the program’s format.
Loveann took hybrid classes, a combination of evening in-class labs and online coursework. As such, she began taking classes prior to fully transitioning out of the military service. This flexibility allowed her to balance family, work, and school commitments. An on-site counselor at the Navy college provided support in navigating both college and military cultures. “They went above and beyond to provide access,” Loveann says.
Loveann didn’t initially intend to utilize the articulation agreement between FSCJ and Nova Southeastern University. However, she decided to take advantage of this unique opportunity and applied for the competitive Nova’s Physician’s Assistant (PA) degree program. Loveann was accepted and will graduate in 2022.
After graduating from Nova, Loveann plans to serve as a Physician’s Assistant in Pediatric Orthopedics. She began orthopedic work in the Navy but also enjoys working with children. She’ll be able to assist babies with club feet and help set broken bones. She says, “Children have such a great bounce-back.” Loveann enjoys the pace of the Emergency Room, rushing in to assist patients with trauma, followed by assisting in the Operating Room. As a PA, she’ll assist throughout the multidimensional process of providing care.
Loveann shares, “Anywhere there’s a physician, you can work as a PA.” She was drawn to the field because her career pathway mirrors that of the military, with its emphasis on work-based learning. PA’s learn by doing. Loveann states that, “Unlike a Nurse Practitioner, a PA can learn a new specialty from a doctor first-hand rather than returning to school for several years. If you need a change of pace, feel burned out or have a lifestyle change, you have options. A doctor will make sure you are completely qualified in that aspect of the medical field. Looking at photos in a book and reading about an experience are very different than encountering a situation with a real person.”
Loveann’s Biomedical training will ensure an interesting career pathway. “It’s a great fit.”
In conjunction with Emtec, DCPS sponsored 105 student interns in summer 2019 who were selected from 10 schools to work on 75,000 computers to perform a preventative maintenance cleaning and reimaging prior to the new school year. Students receive a week of training which equips them to travel to various schools and refresh student and teacher laptops as part of imaging and cleaning teams. The program has blossomed from its inception 5 years ago in which fewer than 10 students were involved. While students have a great deal of responsibility for costly equipment, they have “risen to the challenge and gained important soft skills,” according to Doug Goodall, Managing Director of Emtec Infrastructure Services. Students work 32 hours a week at $10 per hour.
The internship is truly a workforce development strategy. As a result of the summer internship, 10 to 15 students are extended an additional 5 or 6 months with Emtec to complete the yearly PC refresh project. Any students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in IT will graduate with six years of progressive IT experience. According to Mike Marino, Operations Manager, Emtec employees rally around the interns, providing support and expertise. The program has become an important aspect of the company culture.
RJAX's corporate partners bolster the FIRST curriculum and provide the opportunity to mentor top talent and bring a variety of career options to students' attention. RJAX previously partnered with JEA to host a summer camp for participating Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) high school students. They received hands-on experience by learning to design, build and program a robot. They delved into the process of entrepreneurship with JAXChamber and toured JEA locations to hear from employees about various career pathways. Every student expressed interest in a career at JEA at the conclusion of their five-week experience.
Renaissance Jax regularly tasks students with a hard problem that needs solving. The COVID-19 pandemic caused teams' meeting capabilities to drastically change, resulting in major questions regarding how to share robotics supplies to produce robots. Students learned that if they could not produce a physical robot, they could build a virtual one. Alyssa Olsen and Ishika Doma from J. Allen Axson Elementary School not only taught themselves how to use two digital programs, but they also presented to coaches and fellow students across 28 counties in Northeast and Central Florida. "I learned how useful both LEGO Digital Designer and BrickLink can be for teams to collaborate online to create a digital robot," Ishika said of the experience. Alyssa learned about architecture with LEGO, saying it was "the opportunity of a lifetime to teach a real class in front of real people at the age of ten." Both Alyssa and Ishika then began exploring programs such as Fusion360, participating in challenges alongside high school robotics students.
While FIRST teams all around the world helped produce 3D printed face shields to address the PPE shortage early in the pandemic, RJAX students also assisted in the effort to solve UF Health's PPE shortage. Ultimately, RJAX included students in their community effort to provide face shields that were safe to reuse and easily reproduce.
Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, RJAX continues to serve nearly 3,000 students across Northeast and Central Florida. New partnerships with JTA and Amazon through DCPS and the Jacksonville Icemen are just some exciting developments as they strive to engage and invest in the future workforce.
Jansen was always interested in dissembling and assembling computers. While working overseas, he spoke to many in the IT field and was intrigued. Upon returning to the States, enrolled at SJR State. After observing the other students, Jansen felt like he needed to take additional classes to supplement his knowledge. Professor Bell encouraged him to stick with it and just ask questions. Jansen found he put in many late nights to persist, but he was motivated to succeed and determined to feel comfortable in IT. He flourished in the hands-on classroom environment fixing equipment and learned to manage his expectations about the industry from hands-on, real-world examples. He said, “I didn’t realize how far I had come in a year until I was able to help other people. You have to have a passion for it.”
Jansen shares helpful advice with young professionals entering the IT field, saying, “You get your foundation in school but it’s a totally different world at work. You will be nervous at the beginning, but people will help you. Be sure to run things past people but try to solve the problem first.” Jansen finds he is constantly learning and communicating best practices with his team.
“If you like fixing it, it’s fun. There will be long nights when something goes wrong. There will be pressure to perform, but the satisfaction in fixing a problem is great.” He advises that IT professionals hone the skills of paying attention to detail, becoming calm to think under pressure, multi-task, make decisions and think for yourself. Jansen also sees merit in taking advantage of internship opportunities and avoid discouragement when looking for an entry-level job.
“Success is equal to failing less,” said Emmons, a software engineering consultant who discovered the Jacksonville region is a dynamic hub for technology development and employment.
“Technology is complicated, intimidating and daunting, and learning it can be scary,” Emmons said. “In time, you have a better understanding and become more comfortable with the unknown. I’m drawn to activities where you have to fail before you can advance.”
As a youth growing up in Fernandina Beach, Emmons enjoyed computer games and had an interest in knowing more about the people behind game development. At 12, he didn’t hesitate to reach out to more than 40 industry professionals via email. He made a connection with three.
“I formed friendships with people who eventually became mentors,” Emmons said. “It’s important to surround yourself with likeminded individuals who make you feel comfortable.”
A 2017 graduate of Fernandina Beach High School, Emmons discovered his passion for technology and software development in the Nassau County School District’s Java Programming and Application Development curriculum at the Lewis “Red” Bean Nassau Technical Career Center.
The Nassau County School District program, which was led at the time by Director of Career Education Brent Lemond and instructor Kalvin Thompson, provides students with software development training using the latest technologies. The program’s advisory board includes local business partners, such as feature [23], Wells Fargo and CSX, who provide guidance on curriculum and assist with placement and other student opportunities.
As a student, Emmons demonstrated initiative and drive for learning advanced topics and applying them quickly. He also worked hard to expand his skillset beyond normal expectations. Those qualities help Emmons secure an internship at Jacksonville-based software developer feature [23], which led to a full-time software engineer position at the company.
As part of the feature [23] software engineering team, Emmons gained experience in a wide range of domains including distribution, logistics, trading, sales and more, and honed his skills with C#, SQL Server, Azure, React, Angular, and other domain-specific technologies.
“I worked on projects I enjoyed,” Emmons said. “It didn’t feel like I was working.”
After spending nearly five years with feature [23], Emmons recently stepped out on his own as a software engineering consultant. He offers a variety of services designed for both start-ups and established businesses including new product development.
“With all of the opportunities that are out there, going out on my own is the right next step for me,” Emmons said. “I find myself at my best when I am challenged to learn new domains, whether they are business or technical.”
Emmons has risen quickly in his career because he is curious, enthusiastic and has an insatiable desire to learn. He encourages others to find and pursue their passions.
“If you don’t have the initiative, work can be a grind,” Emmons said. “You owe it to yourself to make sure you’re happy and find the things that excite you.”
Her interest in technology was piqued when conducting social science research. When evaluating surveys, Bianca concluded that there was no wholistic solution in the data gathering process. As someone who always enjoyed investigative science, she was drawn into data, saying, “You can impact every corner of life through data analytics.”
Bianca looks to maximize opportunity and has studied people, business and data. She achieved an MBA and MS in Data Analytics at University of Maryland University College. While in college, Bianca worked at Ralph Lauren to fund her education, where her efforts to juggle school and work were acknowledged.
A people person, Bianca changes the narrative that data people lean toward introversion and code all day. In her role at Crowley, Bianca leverages her various strengths to bring together and facilitate cross-functional work between business and tech teams. She focuses on the program level to ensure that data impacts strategy and helps the organization move forward toward ever-evolving data maturity. For example, the legal department may want to digitize processes, so she brings Crowley’s experts together to formulate and implement a solution.
Bianca also works with external partners to ensure support of best practices. Customer experience is also very important, so she looks at technology’s impact on delivery models. Thus, the power of data and systems to make maximum impact on internal teams and external customers is actualized.
A rewarding part of her job is “the lightbulb moment and seeing other people feel good about what they’re doing.” Seeing relationships form, confidence built, and the power of owning the solution is key. She also enjoys being involved in the organizations DEI—supporting diversity, equity and inclusion.
An unexpected aspect of being an IT professional is that “people think you always know the answer. It’s more about finding the answer together, looking past the immediate need and focusing on the long-term solution.” This can involve adjusting expectations while still focusing on the mission to achieve results.
Bianca offers the following advice to those entering IT: “Every company is an IT company. IT is an asset. It’s an enabler that requires us to still innovate.” In addition to seeking out internships in high school and college, focus on a niche technical skill set but be mindful of entering an industry that fulfills your purpose and allows you to drive impact. Think about the context of where you want to work within the tech industry. Consider starting out as a contracted employee to explore various IT roles in different industries and work at companies large and small.
Once employed and looking to begin career laddering, Bianca encourages people to “look for executive leadership and facilitation training. You must be able to navigate the culture of your company and build partnerships. Your career path isn’t linear so be good to yourself and others.”
Lex learned tremendous lessons while involved in the VyStar Academy in high school in 2012 and 2013. He assisted in teaching fiscal responsibility to other students. He assisted with branch efficiency and modified processing systems. Lex also learned computer repair, which included hardware and software, sparking an interest in Information Technology (IT). Lex learned about the multitude of career opportunities available at VyStar while a high school student. He reviewed active job postings and saw the education needed to obtain IT positions, as well as the average wages he could earn with specific IT skills.
Lex continued working for VyStar post-graduation as a Teller Specialist 1 and Teller Specialist II. These positions allowed him to craft listening and empathy skills, as well as master cash handling and balancing abilities. Lex knew early on that he wanted to pursue a career outside of direct customer service.
However, his transferrable experience as a teller consistently proves valuable as he grows his IT career. His career ladder has allowed him to interface with customers, the end-users of the apps he works so diligently to support. “I’ve worked with our customers and I know how they’re going to react if technology isn’t working. It gives me a sense of urgency to make sure everything’s right.”
While working as a Teller, Lex continued his education in IT. While at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), Lex was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Lex received his Associate of Science degree in Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management and continued on at FSCJ for his Bachelors Degree in Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. Lex took advantage of scholarship opportunities via Career Source Northeast Florida to assist with tuition. VyStar also provides an outstanding tuition assistance program.
As Lex continued to complete educational milestones, he continued taking new steps in his professional career. Averaging a job change at least every 1-3 years, Lex continues to progress. He has been with VyStar for over 8 years now and only continues to progress.
In his current role in Production and Application Support, he troubleshoots application software issues and ensures successful resolution. Lex is an example of how motivation, strategic planning, and resiliency has tremendous impact. He has successfully leveraged opportunities available to him in high school and college. Lex has taken advantage of the high caliber of education and the high-growth IT occupations in Northeast Florida to craft an enviable career with limitless possibilities.
It led Fulmore-Hardwick, CSI Companies’ Chief Information Officer, to numerous achievements and moved her to encourage and motivate others, especially youth, to find value in their talents and explore their interests. Fulmore-Hardwick is passionate about providing others with opportunities for success.
Fulmore-Hardwick, along with CSI CEO Chris Flakus, tapped that passion to develop the CSI Connect internship program, an initiative that exposes students in underserved Jacksonville communities to technology careers and invests in future technology leaders. The program is building a pipeline of technology students, positioning them for lucrative jobs in the technology industry.
CSI Connect originated in response to a global corporate competition amongst 10 co-ops internationally, where they were challenged with the task of introducing a new way of doing business that closes the economic divide and celebrates diversity and inclusion. The program is offered in partnership with four Jacksonville colleges and the Duval County Public Schools.
“CSI Connect has evolved way beyond a contest,” Fulmore-Hardwick said. “The program empowers students to pursue careers in the tech industry, and it has given our interns the opportunity to be someone they never thought they could be.”
The program launched in May 2022 with six students from Edward Waters College, University of North Florida, and Florida State College of Jacksonville. Each intern was provided a laptop and paired with a mentor in the IT department based on their college discipline. They worked in the CSI Companies’ Jacksonville office alongside the employees and participated in various professional and leadership training related to networking, public speaking, building a brand, financial literacy, and wellness.
“This internship is helping me learn and implement the skills I’m learning in school and deploy it in the real world within the computing field. The Tech Talks, Wisdom Wednesday talks, and the open-door policy CSI offers extended exposure to network with other people from all types of backgrounds. My favorite thing at CSI is the people. It feels like we are one big happy family,” said Riyam Yatooma, UNF Student and current CSI Connect Intern.
“We want to make sure these students gain knowledge and have an experience that’s going to be game-changing in their lives,” Fulmore-Hardwick said.
In January 2022, the CSI Connect program expanded to include high school students. CSI Companies opened the CSI Tech Lab in Andrew Jackson High School’s renovated media center with IT professionals providing education and mentoring to five students, called the Jackson 5, interested in IT at the school.
“CSI Companies is making an investment in the schools and the community,” Fulmore-Hardwick said. “We want to get both college and high school students engaged, and communicate the importance of technology and the technology careers available to them.”
The inaugural class of CSI Connect college interns graduated in July 2022. Interns who do well during the program are encouraged to apply for employment at CSI Companies or one of its clients after graduation. Two students have begun full-time careers as a software engineer and a systems analyst at CSI Companies.
“My experience as a tech intern at CSI was eye-opening. It was the kind of hands-on experience I needed to catapult my career in tech. I gained a range of valuable skills both related to my tech background and nuggets of wisdom I’ve gained along the way with the help of my mentors. The more effort I put into this program, the more I reaped the benefits. Everyone is willing to teach as long as I was willing to learn. CSI Connect was truly an amazingly unique experience!” said Brianna Moreland, former college intern turned CSI Business Analyst.
“We have changed the economic position of several students and introduced others to the tech industry,” Fulmore-Hardwick said. “The CSI Connect program promotes diversity in technology and encourages these students to remain in Northeast Florida after they graduate.”
“All of my friends knew what college they were attending and what they wanted to study, and I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” she said. “It was a discouraging time for me.”
Watson, a Production Operations Specialist at Bank of America, found her passion for financial technology (fintech) and her career path through the Year Up program at Florida State College of Jacksonville (FSCJ). In her role, Watson works closely with users and other tech teams to identify, troubleshoot and resolve technology service issues.
Year Up is a one-year, workforce development training program that provides urban young adults, ages 18-29, with a combination of technical and professional skills as they work toward an internship and career path in business or technology. In Jacksonville, the program serves approximately 160 students per year. The program is designed to give students an opportunity they may not otherwise have.
Watson learned of the Year Up program while attending high school but didn’t apply until a year later. She joined the program but initially did not stick with it. After leaving Year Up and not finding a satisfying job, Watson re-enrolled in the program and discovered an interesting path career in technology despite facing many untimely personal difficulties.
“The program was extremely challenging for me to complete, but I promised myself to persevere,” Watson said.
The Year Up program is available to those who have a high school diploma or GED and have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. The first six months of the intensive job training program involve classroom learning at FSCJ, along with weekly coaching and mentoring. Students also learn writing, networking and professional behavior skills while in the classroom portion of the Year Up program.
The second half of the program places students in a full-time internship with a local corporation, such as Bank of America, for six months. Students can receive a stipend of up to $2,100 after signing a contract, as well as an opportunity to receive entry-level career offers upon completion of the program. Watson was able to transition her internship into a full-time position at Bank of America.
“I put in a lot of hard work and my manager recognized my drive to be hired,” Watson said. “By networking and staying motivated during the internship, I was able to demonstrate why they should have me on their team.”
Year Up students earn up to 30 college-credit hours in one year at FSCJ. Watson is currently pursuing an associate’s degree in information technology and a bachelor’s degree in computer science at FSCJ.
The Year Up program prepares students for the workforce and all the expectations that occur on the job. Watson says the program has been life-changing, and highly recommends interested students apply and approach the internship as an opportunity to launch their future career.
“I credit my success to Year Up,” said Watson. “The program taught me to advocate for myself and provided me with everything I needed to succeed.”
“There’s a big learning curve in the transition from bachelor’s degree to master’s degree to professional employment,” O’Neal said. “My internship provided insightful learning and understanding of what it means to be a member of the workforce.”
O’Neal, an Associate Software Engineer at Forcura, earned a master’s degree in Health Informatics and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a minor in Cyber Security from Jacksonville University. Attending as a student-athlete on a softball scholarship, the Tampa-area native used her studies at JU to feed her passion for computers and technology before advancing into full-time employment at Forcura.
“What we do at Forcura is extremely rewarding,” O’Neal said. “It helps providers and patients going through care with software that saves time and money.”
Forcura improves continuity of care via technology, analytics and a deep commitment to enabling better patient care. The Forcura suite of tools facilitates safer patient care transitions and more effective coordination among post-acute health care organizations, physicians, electronic health records (EHRs) and other supporting technology vendors.
O’Neal’s internship at Forcura was the perfect fit to complete her master’s degree in Health Informatics, a relatively new, interdisciplinary field in the healthcare industry that uses information technology to organize and analyze health records to improve healthcare outcomes. She learned about the opportunity from a friend, who is a Forcura employee, and discovered the internship aligned with her interests in healthcare and technology.
“We are empowering patient care with the best technology and information available,” O’Neal said. “It has a real and powerful impact on people’s lives.”
Colleagues recognized O’Neal’s professionalism, dedication and positive contributions during the internship, and the company extended an offer to become a full-time employee. At Forcura, attracting and retaining top talent through innovation and company culture is a high priority. The company has a successful internship program and has converted 70% of its interns to full-time employees since 2018.
O’Neal’s focus is data flow, ensuring that Forcura’s components connect and the information can get where it is needed to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. Her interest in computers and technology emerged as a student in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program at Buchanan Middle School in Tampa. Engineering was her favorite class and it inspired her interest in pursuing a technology career. O’Neal is proud to be a young female leader in the STEM field and hopes to help equalize the gender gap. She aspires to return to the classroom as a mentor or teacher, empowering young children to recognize the opportunities in some of the fastest-growing and highest-paid jobs of the future.
“Don’t be intimidated by the technology,” O’Neal said. “Anyone who works hard and likes a challenge can enjoy a career in computer science or software engineering.”
Randall Reese is a Service Technician for Bridgenext, a global digital consulting company specializing in technology, data and creative marketing solutions that empower clients to achieve digital realization. Reese was a Wolfson High School student in 2016 when he began participating in a summer internship program through the Duval County School District and the company, which was then known as Emtec, Inc.
“I’ve always had an interest in technology and in history,” Reese said. “There is so much to learn in IT.”
The Bridgenext/Duval County School District internship program offers high school students training and hands-on experience. As part of the program, students help complete necessary technology-related tasks for the school district, such as cleaning devices, re-installing software and testing computers.
“The internship is a tremendous learning experience,” Reese said. “My advice to interns is to always be willing to help and take every job – you’ll learn something from it."
Along with acquiring new technology skills, Reese discovered his passion and purpose during his internship.
“I like working with people to help solve problems,” Reese said. “I have an interest in troubleshooting, and I found my niche with repairs.”
After high school graduation, Reese continued in the internship program. Reese was also focused on earning a history degree from the University of North Florida. At that time, he believed teaching history was his ideal career pathway. While attending UNF, he continued to work with the company. The experiences included working on the company’s technology team jobs at the City of Jacksonville and JEA.
“These are the kind of opportunities that you only get through an internship,” Reese said. “I realized I could do this work professionally, and I had an interest in making this my career.”
Although he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history from UNF in 2022, Reese switched his career pathway and accepted a full-time position on the Bridgenext JEA team.
“I have an affinity for technology,” Reese said. “I realized this type of work happens to be the perfect fit for me.”
In his role at Bridgenext, Reese works in the call center. He is responsible for troubleshooting, diagnosing and repairing technology issues. Callers may be seeking assistance on installations, resets or software issues. Some of the concerns are a quick fix. Others are more complicated. Reese’s goal is to resolve the callers’ problems efficiently.
“It’s customer service in a technology world,” Reese said. “I enjoy that I get to use my teaching skills in this role. My job is often teaching people how to use their technology effectively.”
Reese also uses his teaching skills on employee training assignments. His role on the help desk requires proficient technology skills. Reese says the position also requires the ability to demonstrate empathy, flexibility and patience.
“You have to listen to the caller and keeping your patience is key,” Reese said. “If they are having a technology problem, they are probably not having the best day.”
The fastest growing arm of Trailer Bridge’s business is the North American Logistics line. Trailer Bridge has dramatically increased the number of operational locations to include Los Angeles, CA, as well as sites in Jacksonville, FL, Atlanta, GA, Harrisburg, PA, Minneapolis, MN, Houston, TX, Chicago, IL, Raleigh, NC, Mexico City, MC and Cincinnati, OH.
Trailer Bridge is distinct for their history, but they’re also set apart by factors other than growth. Their assets including seven barges, and an extensive fleet of containers and chassis. They also see their workforce as their most important asset and consider them family. Trailer Bridge also intentionally serves their community.
When Trailer Bridge began their growth strategy, they wanted to create a culture where employees enjoyed their work and felt a sense of purpose in serving their customers. They felt that having a great working environment would not only maintain productivity, but also translate into superior customer service. The leadership team shifted the focus to employees, establishing a collective leadership philosophy via a common ground. They started by asking the teams what attributes they wanted in leadership and that would create the kind of culture in which they would thrive. This resulted in the creation of the TB12 Core Values which are the foundation of Trailer Bridge’s culture, and which could be described as old school values meets fun start up. These values include: Deliver Exceptional Service to Everyone, Be Kind and Fair, Be Honest and Fearlessly Authentic, Act with Integrity, Pursue Growth and Learning, Create and Be Fun, and Be Fast and Accurate. But they didn’t stop there. They designed and launched a customized training program to implement a common philosophy among leadership to support these values, as well as training to keep the teams growing and innovative.
The TB12 serve as the core of what drives the team and leadership to create the best experience for employees and customers in an industry known for a fast pace. It results in a high level of service, a natural result of a workplace atmosphere where employees feel cared for and enjoy what they do.
Another aspect of the company that permeates the culture is community involvement through the TBGives Program. The TBGives service team supports causes like Habijax, The Clara White Mission, and Dreams Come True to name a few. Trailer Bridge believes this is a natural extension of their business of serving others, so they also help smaller groups, such as a local dance team who lacked funds to travel for competitions. More information can be found at www.trailerbridge.com.
Matt Rogers, Senior Transportation Systems Manager at KeHE in Elkton, Florida, said, “My Dad taught me that there are three decisions that you can make: the right one, the wrong one, and none at all. “ This advice appears to have guided Matt’s career pathway in the Transportation and Logistics (T&L) industry. Through careful research, making decisions on the educational program most suited to his learning style and area of interest, and being open to industry opportunities and challenges, Matt has found success in the industry in Northeast Florida.
Matt works for KeHE, a national company with a location in St. John’s County. KeHE specializes in order fulfillment and distribution to 30,000 stores in North America with continuing acquisitions. With 550 trucks and 15 North American distribution centers, KeHE is able to provide fresh, natural, and organic specialty foods to companies such as Publix and Sprouts. They serve big box stores to smaller family-owned operations.
Matt’s current role will allow him to improve route visibility. This industry trend incorporates technology and is the result of “The Amazon Effect.” The expectation of knowing when delivery will take place is a customer service issue that also allows businesses to be more responsive. Due to the distance trucks travel to each their many locations, an estimated time of arrival may change depending on traffic, accidents, or a variety of other factors. Matt’s work will involve a device in trucks that provides customers with real-time data and a notification when the driver is 30 minutes away from his or her destination. He previously worked for other regional companies such as Shoreside Logistics, Interstate Distributor, and Interline Brands.
After relocating to Jacksonville in between his junior and senior years of high school, Matt obtained his Associate of Arts degree at FSCJ and attended University of Florida until his Junior year. Matt began investigating the program at the University of North Florida (UNF) and was attracted to the smaller class size. He also realized that he needed to distinguish himself from many other students pursuing a business degree. Matt also realized that his hometown of Jacksonville was a major site of T & L activity encompassing road, rail, sea and air.
In 2008, Matt graduated from UNF with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Logistics and Transportation with a minor in Economics. Studies in this degree track at UNF qualified Matt to register for free and bypass the exam for the Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL), an internationally recognized industry certification.
Matt finds the industry interesting because “It’s so broad. The general public doesn’t understand how T & L impacts everything. The goods that reach families have a supply chain behind it.” Also, the industry is fun because “It’s always different.” Technology changes lend excitement to the industry as well. For example, on the warehouse side, KeHE’s Pick-to-Light capacity means that a light guides a picker to carious aisles and rows that house goods needed for multiple bins. This replaces print-out sheets of the past. Also, voice-to-pick technology provides opportunity for ESL workers, as the system can read orders in their native language.
Working while in school was a key to Matt’s success. In high school, he worked at Publix and realized how close and vast their warehouses were to the region. While at UNF, Matt worked at Medtronic, an opportunity secured through networking. While there, he was able to learn many aspects of the business including warehousing, purchasing, and customer service. This provided valuable cross-training and exposure in the company.
Matt cites the primary characteristics of people who are successful in this industry include thriving in a non-repetitive working environment that is deadline and time sensitive. Someone must be able to pivot quickly and realize that despite planning and strategy, not everything goes according to plan. “You can’t take it personally despite being invested. If something doesn’t work out, learn from it and move on.”
When asked what kind of helpful advice he’d share with individuals seeking to get into this field, Matt said, “Networking is critical. In this industry, everyone knows everyone. You never know who will help you. Be open to opportunity and take on challenges.“ He would encourage students to “work while you’re finishing your degree or secure an internship. If you can reduce debt while in school by working or using Bright Futures, it will pay dividends down the road.”
Clearly, Matt has made many choices and taken specific actions to reach this juncture in his career pathway. Now, you have more information equipping you to do the same.
After 20 years of active military service, which included 6 combat tours in Iraq and Bosnia, as well as 3 tours in Korea, Jesus Garay started Global Freight & Commerce. Not one to let military retirement in 2014 ease his schedule, Garay has not only started a small business, but lends his time and support to community endeavors. A Jacksonville native, Garay is passionate about investing in real opportunities for the community so that others can have a solid, profitable career. He participates in events such as job fairs, conferences on topics such as Opportunity Zones, and community events like the JAX Chamber's The Longest Table. His abundant energy and commitment to seeing others succeed makes him a valuable entrepreneur in Northeast Florida, as well as an excellent mentor to employees and community members seeking to change their lives.
According to their website, Global Freight & Commerce is a 100% owner-operated trucking company and an industry-freight leader. Owner-operators have the ability to earn above average wages in the industry. Partners include Department of Defense, FEMA, JB Hunt, and Pepsi.
When honoring Garay, Rubio stated, "A member of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Global Freight & Commerce is also involved in the community… which provide leadership training to assist and develop the local workforce. Veteran-owned businesses such as Global Freight & Commerce are examples of the talent and dedication of our nation's veterans. I look forward to watching Global Freight & Commerce's continued growth and success."
Beth Wilder is a Navy veteran having worked as a mechanic as well as in quality assurance while serving. After transitioning to civilian life, Beth worked multiple jobs to support her three children, one of which brought her to Jacksonville to play football at a top-notch high school. After moving to Northeast Florida, Beth chose Keiser University as she needed flexibility to keep working while pursuing her education. This choice moved her closer to the goal of obtaining a fantastic job that facilitates making worthwhile professional contributions.
Beth chose her studies carefully after considering what mattered most to her and how she can best add value to an organization. Beth spoke with various professors about the transportation and logistics industry and how to maximize her opportunities within it. She heeded their advice to participate in various clubs of genuine interest as well as networking within the industry.
As a result, Beth will graduate from Keiser University with a degree in Business Administration in May 2021 after four years of study and participation in various clubs which provided exposure to employers as well as offered scholarship opportunities. For example, she earned a $2,000 scholarship from Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) Northeast Florida which advances women’s careers to strengthen the transportation industry. Involvement in the International Propeller Club, JAX Chapter generated award recognition as well as an interview with TOTE Services.
While still pursuing her degree, Beth obtained a position at TOTE Services as a result of this interview. TOTE Services facilitates ship operations and management of U.S. flag vessels and U.S. government owned vessels. As a Marine Personnel Specialist, Beth processes paperwork ensuring that all people can safely board ships, ensuring adherence to regulations and compliance, and interfacing with the officers to ensure the processing meets their needs. “I love puzzles and I miss the sea. This role is as close as I can get while still ensuring my role as a Mom comes first and still having satisfaction of serving others.”
Beth will start graduate school with a focus on Business Administration in Marketing or Accounting so she can continue career laddering. “I like knowing I can help. There are tangible results of my efforts. It’s important to know that I’m being useful with my time and that I can have a piece of this huge industry.” She also takes advantage of virtual training and educational programs offered by TOTE Services via the Blue Ocean platform.
Trends that Beth anticipates seeing include more ships powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), a move in the maritime industry that began with the company with which she now works and which fueled the world’s first LNG-powered containership in 2015.
She also sees the increase of automated functions with an increased need for specialized personnel to maintain machines. The push for a balanced, happy employee in the industry
is also important, as is instilling confidence and leadership in the next generation of the workforce.
Beth states, “I want people like women and young professionals to feel empowered. Get past the fact that I’m a woman and just think about my abilities. Look at who you are, not what you are. See beyond a demographic.”
Mar Tyndall has a love for vehicles and an interest in the technology that keeps them running. He graduated from Lincoln Tech’s ASE-Certified automotive program and worked for Volkswagen for two years. While Tyndall enjoyed his work, he wanted to achieve more in his career. He began to explore opportunities to become a diesel technician and found the Republic Services diesel technician training program.
“I wanted a challenge and I was inspired by the challenge of working on bigger and heavier equipment,” Tyndall said.
Tyndall is a diesel technician apprentice at Republic Services, a leader in recycling, waste and environmental services. Originally from New Jersey, Tyndall moved to Jacksonville in the spring of 2023 after graduating from Republic Services’ Technical Institute, the industry's first-ever diesel technician training program. The next generation trade school provides technological education and student compensation while supporting the development of a highly trained workforce.
“When I first started, I didn’t know much about trucks,” Tyndall said. “Now, I know more than the average person.”
The training program was developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and Lincoln Tech, a leader in post-secondary education for auto, diesel, and skilled trades, to address the national diesel tech shortage. Republic Services Technical Institute offers paid on-the-job training, high-tech classrooms, and computer-based learning. Participants work toward a technical certification tuition-free at the Institute’s state-of-the-art, 76,000-square-foot facility located in Dallas, Texas. Tyndall received an offer to attend the Institute in January of 2023.
“It’s a beautiful facility with a lot of space to work in and the instructors are so helpful,” Tyndall said. “It was an excellent experience.”
After completing the nine-week program, graduates of the Republic Services Technical Institute begin full-time work at one of the company’s 180 local business units, including Jacksonville. Graduates receive a competitive salary, health insurance, paid time off and other benefits. Republic Services operates one of the nation’s largest fleets of waste removal and recycling vehicles and equipment, including heavy-duty, professional-grade, top-of-the-line trucks.
“Every day takes a lot of hard work and dedication,” Tyndall said. “There is always something new and interesting to learn each day.”
Tyndall performs ongoing maintenance and critical repairs to keep the company’s trucks on the road.
“It’s rewarding that I can serve my community as well as our team by making sure our trucks up and running and keeping our trucks safe,” Tyndall said. “Safety is our number one priority.”
Tyndall will advance from an apprentice to a certified diesel technician after approximately 18 months on the job. He enjoys the daily challenges of his job including disassembling and reassembling equipment. Problem solving is an essential skill for a diesel technician, which can be an excellent path to a well-paying and secure profession.
“Some days are challenging, but you have to do what it takes to keep striving, be persistent and achieve your goals,” Tyndall said.
“I wanted to be part of something big where I could break open doors for the greatest opportunity,” he said.
At Florida State College at Jacksonville, Roguens studied Supervision and Management/ Business Administration from 2013 to 2015 while working as a Financial Representative at UF Health Jacksonville and serving as a Logistics Embarkation Specialist for the US Marine Corp. Roguens loved working at UF Health’s large business setting. He enjoyed creating a great atmosphere for patients with pending insurance claims. During this time, he developed into an adept, resourceful professional who determined how to best leverage his passions and skills.
On January 12, 2010, a catastrophic earthquake struck Haiti. Roguens had been in the US for over two years on that defining day. After hearing about the lack of logistics planning and infrastructure which prevented Haitians from receiving emergency supplies and food, Roguens knew he would become a problem-solver and solutions-creator to prevent these situations from occurring. He would study and work in logistics.
Since that time, Roguens has served in the US Army as a Fuel Petroleum and Water Distribution Coordinator where he has earned Level II Certified Petroleum Journeyman status, a Hazmat safety credential and a Six Sigma Master Black Belt. In 2022, he obtained his Master of Business Administration in Transportation and Logistics at the University of North Florida, where he served as Vice-President of Community Service at Delta Sigma Pi, Kappa Pi Chapter. He will soon transition out of the military and into the private sector, where he will work in air, rail, or sea logistics.
Roguens enjoys the Transportation & Logistics industry, saying, “What you’re doing is important, essential and big. Manufacturers, grocers and others rely on you to forecast needs and improvise. You’re in the middle of cross-functional teams like marketing and production.”
Skills of flexibility, resiliency, critical thinking and effective communication are signature qualifications in the industry, according to Roguens. “On Day One of a job, you begin making decisions. If you weren’t a leader before, you become one. You learn to plan backward and think forward.”
For students, veterans, or parents considering Transportation & Logistics as a career pathway, Roguens said, “The industry is growing and there is limitless opportunity.”
Becoming part of the Jacksonville community has offered great rewards for Roguens as well. While in college, he was involved with AmeriCorps VISTA and volunteered with Junior Achievement. He has also paid it forward in his native Haiti, where he is the Founder of Premier Vocational School since 2018. Approximately 250 to 300 students are enrolled in different programs which include English, computers, and trade skills such as tile installation, plumbing and electrical.
For Roguens, family and academics have been sources of inspiration and motivation that will continue fueling his career progression in the region’s Transportation & Logistics industry.
“Find out what works for you,” said Breanna. “Not every journey is straight and narrow. It’s frustrating when you think you’re wasting time and resources and you just want the answer. But, a changing mind comes with growth.”
Breanna is currently studying Business Administration with a concentration in Transportation & Logistics. She will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in the spring of 2024. However, her connection to the Transportation & Logistics industry began with military service.
After graduating high school, Breanna entered the U.S. Marines, serving as a Landing Support Specialist from May 2014-2018. Breanna was placed into this logistics role, knowing nothing about logistics. She completed a month of logistics school in which she learned the various models of military planes, as well as their characteristics, such as weight capabilities. She worked in landing support, offloaded equipment, and completed personnel manifests. She worked rail and beach operations, exposing her to different types of environments. Breanna wanted to see the world—military service facilitated that goal.
Breanna began pursuing social work studies following her military service, but was encouraged to explore her interests and notable skill in cosmetology. She ran a beauty blog and was a successful freelance makeup artist. Breanna shifted gears to take courses at Paul Mitchell in Jacksonville. However, her entrepreneurial mindset re-set her course to Keiser University, where she began studying Business and Finance using her GI Bill. At the time, Breanna thought the program of study would help her determine how to best craft her own beauty brand and product line.
Once at Keiser, Breanna met students enrolled in Logistics, as the Business Administration and Transportation & Logistics programs are closely aligned. After chatting with Professor Dr. Jeremy Smith, she was encouraged to shift her focus to studying Transportation & Logistics. This has allowed her to return to an area of familiarity from her military service, but has afforded tremendous opportunities to see this from the civilian perspective as “a long-term career pathway with a wealth of opportunity,” rather than as an assignment.
Breanna’s choice has already resulted in amazing opportunities. Breanna joined the Port Club at Keiser University, an extra-curricular activity facilitated by members of the Propeller Club of Jacksonville. An international professional association, the Propeller Club consists of local chapters that provide excellent opportunities for advocacy, networking and outreach. Breanna was selected to be part of an exclusive co-hort of three Keiser students who travelled to Greece for five days to the International Propeller Club’s Conference. Along with industry professionals from around the globe, as well as French and Greek students, Breanna learned about industry trends, such as “green, autonomous innovations that will continue to change how people and cargo are moved safely and according to regulations.”
The Propeller Club of Jacksonville, also selected Breanna to receive a $5,000 scholarship. “I was overcome with emotion, realizing the magnitude of this recognition for my hard work.”
At Keiser, industry specific field trips and informational interviews are allowing Breanna to see which aspect of the industry interests her the most. She is impressed with employers at JAX Port as well as Dr. Smith’s hands-on approach to teaching. She appreciates an industry with a large scale purpose and the sense of community generated by industry professionals who love what they do. Breanna sees this career pathway as one that will generate “a sense of purpose and a tight-knit community” for anyone willing to pursue it.
For her, the route to her career pathway of choice is an unexpected welcome home of sorts. “It’s part of the journey. It’s part of my story.”
Kazmierski is CEO of Global Business Logistix, LLC. She founded the Jacksonville- based company in 2014 after working in the port, logistics, supply chain and transportation industries.
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in marketing and transportation/logistics, she established the company to provide project leadership in the international trade and logistics industry with a focus on workforce and economic development. Her customers include nonprofits and educational institutions.
“I love what I do – transportation and logistics feeds my soul,” said Kazmierski, who was named JAX Chamber’s Transportation & Logistics Council’s 2022 Small Business Leader of the Year.
The industry offers dynamic, challenging and fulfilling career opportunities with a wide variety of career trajectories. Transportation focuses on the movement of people and products via road, air, rail and water. Logistics covers a broader scope of activities that facilitate the management of product movement within the supply chain.
Kazmierski earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Administration from the University of South Florida in Tampa, and initially managed successful multi-family communities. While working to bring bus services to one of her communities, Kazmierski became intrigued by the transportation industry.
Kazmierski spent more than three years as marketing coordinator for Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), the independent agency responsible for public transit in Jacksonville. She then spent 11 years as a community outreach manager at the Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT), Florida’s largest container port by volume and one of the nation’s top vehicle-handling ports.
Kazmierski operates Global Business Logistix as a “solopreneur,” utilizing subconsultants for special project needs. With a global-thinking focus, the consulting company helps businesses and organizations achieve the growth they desire. Global Business Logistix is known for its work with the Florida Supply Chain Summit and offers state and federal grant writing and administration. Diversifying and offering niche services has provided opportunities for the company’s success. Kazmierski to date has written and administered more than $42 million in federal and state grants that serve nearly 10,000 children in Northeast Florida afterschool, summer and food programs.
Global Business Logistix has enjoyed consistent growth over the past eight years, thanks to Kazmierski’s focus on accreditation and professional development. She
earned the internationally recognized Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) and attends numerous professional development programs.
“To keep yourself relevant, it’s essential to keep your credentials up-to-date and build on your skill set,” Kazmierski said.
Kazmierski credits her success to tenacious networking and encourages everyone to build and maintain their professional network. Her networking includes keeping in contact with former colleagues and making new connections. She frequently volunteers on behalf of industry organizations and also generously gives her time mentoring rising entrepreneurs.
“If you’re going to succeed in this industry, it is vitally important to nurture your network,” Kazmierski said. “If you don’t succeed, you haven’t done your networking well.”
Lindsay and her husband Scott met in college at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. Lindsay studied Marketing and Design. Scott, a Jacksonville native, pursued Environmental Science. They later lived in south Florida while Scott pursued a master’s degree in Aquaculture. Initially, he considered starting up a fish farm on his father’s property. He and Lindsay began building rice paddies and milling in their shed, literally “testing the waters” for the components needed in fish farming.
Scott’s father owned the farm, now Congaree and Penn, a 330-acre property which served as a tree farm. Rather than using the land for fish farming, they pivoted, choosing to grow rice to supply various restaurants as well as their own. The farm now houses a unique mix of muscadine, mayhaw, and olive orchards, tree nurseries, a southern farm-to-table inspired restaurant, and their goats, chickens, ducks, guinea fowl and horses. Tours, blackberry and muscadine picking, community events, a retail operation and landscaping service round out their business model and brand.
While growth has been steady in the last six years, future plans include building the brand to offer a variety of personal agri-tourism experiences to interact with the property, the animals, and the food. Plans for pressing the Arbequina Olives that are produced on the farm would also require expanded capacity. Lindsay indicates that the community has supported Congaree and Penn as they’ve grown and evolved, which mirrors the evolution of her own career.
Lindsay shares that farming was not her intended career pathway. Although she grew up on a farm in New Mexico that produced green chilis, pecans, and cotton, she originally pictured herself working in a large design firm. However, farm life suits her. She enjoys feeding her menagerie of pets, riding horses, and spending time on their beautiful property. She and her husband also live on the property, a lovely way to work from home.
However, it’s not all beautiful sunsets and rows of impeccable crops. Farm life is hard work and requires its owners to wear a variety of hats. Diversity of skills needed on the farm truly represent modern agriculture. For example, designing a brand, logo, and website, responding to all communications, event planning, and managing a restaurant staff all fall within Lindsay’s self-created job description. She gets her hands dirty during the day-to-day operation along with their 30 employees. “You have to be weather-tolerant and be comfortable being outside. Weather isn’t always easy,” Lindsay says.
An easy hospitality is part of the brand. Congaree and Penn has a boutique feel and offers an intimate experience, but its reach continues to expand due to hard work. For example, their small batch Pecan Oil won both a Good Food Award and a Garden & Gun Made in the South Runner-Up Award. Sustainable farming allows Lindsay and Scott to innovate, grow and change as the consumer market and community interests change. Having a diverse number of products, goods, and services also allows them to weather any economic changes.
With a name inspired by family history, it’s only natural that the farm’s philosophy is encapsulated in Lindsay’s statement, “We want everyone to feel special.”
A senior at QI Roberts Junior-Senior High School, part of the Putnam County School District offering Cambridge Advanced Studies, Clayton Brauman is involved in Future Farmers of America (FFA). Students take advanced placement coursework and exams. Through the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Program, Clayton earns college credits to transfer upon enrollment at Oklahoma State University in the Fall of 2021. At the end of this school year, Clayton will qualify for several specific certificates, such as the Agriculture Associate Certification, Agriculture Systems Associate, and Animal Science Specialist.
Clayton’s career pathway is clear. He will earn his bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a concentration in Business, studying different aspects of ag production and specializing in cow and calf operations. Once he completes college, Clayton intends to return to work his family farm and have a job in animal nutrition. After a recent sale of feeder calves, his family owns a cow operation involving six hundred head of commercial female cattle. The Brauman’s also own a feed store in Palatka--County Feed and General Store. This retail operation hosts a quarterly farm swap showcasing local producer of canned goods, pre-started plants, goats-milk soap, or baby chicks. Clayton is involved in the execution and promotion of these events.
Clayton’s experience in ag is specialized, but he sees the importance of diversification of products and services that farmers offer their communities. He and his sister own 25 head of registered Charolais, a creamy white breed which are known for their good growth rate, producing big calves, and significant average daily gain. They intend to produce bulls and breed them for local and statewide sales.
Clayton’s interest in agriculture began early due to his family’s farm and retail store. However, he quickly developed a skill set that allowed him to travel across the United States, cementing an appreciation for farming in Northeast Florida. Clayton was part of the state champion 4-H Livestock Judging Team from Putnam County. The team judged livestock in state and national contests. From sixth through eleventh grades, Clayton began traveling to competitions, also exposing him to farms and ranches across the country. He learned to spell every breed and formulate speeches to justify his judgements based on specific criteria. He learned the discipline required to complete classroom assignments on the road in a timely manner. No doubt this experience will propel him forward in his career pathway.
As a result of his travels, Clayton has concluded “Florida is unique in that many local producers will help each other out. People aren’t afraid to call their neighbors.” Clayton cited a recent example where local ranchers needed a shipping facility to sort and load their calves. Clayton’s family offered their pens to sort and load the calves onto semi-trailers. Not only did they provide the facilities, but they helped with the process of loading.
Clayton also wisely observes agribusiness trends. He mentioned more farmers sell their USDA approved meats directly to the consumer rather than selling their cattle to companies that process the animal and sell to the consumer. This relationship helps the producer recuperate costs while keeping costs affordable to the consumer. Selling directly to the customer also creates the awareness of showing people the source of their food, thereby linking the community closer to the land and its products. Sometimes, aspects of the economy beyond a farmer’s control can be impactful. For example, COVID-19 shut down schools that generally purchase milk cartons for school lunches. Farmers were impacted due to temporarily losing this consumer base. This is another reason why Clayton sees the need for producers to have multiple products and income streams. Farms that offer corn mazes, cafes, retail operations, and hayrides can best connect with their communities and increase resilience.
For those who are considering an agribusiness career pathway, Clayton believes a hands-on aspect of farming is critical to generate interest. Conservation and water treatment are important aspects of the industry, as is crop and animal production. Clayton encourages students in Putnam County to get involved in CTE classes, where they can participate in the Land Lab which features cattle, goats, and chickens. Membership in the FFA Chapter in Putnam County allows access to a local community garden that raises organic crops.
Overall, Clayton is approaching his career pathway by incorporating academic work, extra-curricular involvement, and hard work on his family’s farm. Clayton’s roots provide a clear agriculture pathway with a forward-looking route in Putnam County.
This moment helped set Kelly on a career pathway that she once just considered a hobby. With the help of experts in the community, Kelly learned how to groom and show a steer. While she was sad when the steer was sold at auction, her interest didn’t diminish. In fact, she showed steer for six years.
At Middleburg High School, Kelly was involved in Future Farmers of America (FFA), which was her all-consuming extra-curricular activity. Kelly served as the secretary and president of her school’s chapter. Kelly was involved in placing in and judging various state contests from poultry to ornamental horticulture, learning skills like propagation of begonias via leaf cuttings. Participation in FFA also allowed Kelly to teach kindergarteners through Food for America. Once a month, she would teach students different agriculture lessons, from making butter, to planting flowers, to understanding egg embryology.
Kelly grew up loving all aspects of agriculture, but she didn’t anticipate that this would be her career pathway. After high school, Kelly pursued an Associate degree from Santa Fe College while working full time. She interned at the Jacksonville Zoo, intending to enroll in the University of Florida’s (UF) Zoology program. She pivoted from this program of study, encouraged to change her major to Animal Science. In the interim, she continued full time work for several years at the University Air Center adjacent to the Gainesville Regional Airport. Ultimately, she realized her current role did not offer growth potential and the love of ag hadn’t diminished. “I learned that we don’t all take the same pathway and it’s okay.” She enrolled at UF to study Animal Science. The degree has three concentrations: Animal Biology, Food Animal, and Equine. Kelly selected the Food Animal area of focus.
Once Kelly returned to school full time, she continued to keep a full-time work schedule saying, “If you really try, you can do it.” The commitment and enthusiasm needed to maintain such an intensive regimen resulted in Kelly’s graduation following the Spring 2020 semester with a bachelor’s in Animal Science and a minor in Agribusiness Management and Sales. She now joins her grandmother, mother, and sister as UF alumni.
As part of her program, Kelly was required to take an introduction to meats class. After doing so, she selected other classes such as meat processing, selection and grading, processing, evaluation, and food safety. Kelly’s education has provided many industry lessons. She said, “There are so many untrue facts about how the industry is represented as well as how products are marketed.” An avid proponent of the Farm to Table movement, Kelly indicated that sometimes consumers are provided half the narrative. For example, packaging indicating that chickens aren’t treated with any growth hormones isn’t newsworthy. In fact, it isn’t legal to give any chicken in the United States any kind of growth hormone. “Cage free” still involves chickens being raised in massive barns.
Kelly intended to intern with Tyson Foods in Illinois this summer prior to its cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, she secured a part-time internship at the UF’s Meat Lab. While initially disappointing, the smaller operation offered Kelly the opportunity to engage in all aspects of production from humane kill to slaughter wrapping and customer service via the UF Meat Store. Kelly notes that a USDA Inspector is on site to ensuring that the Humane Slaughter Act protocols are in place. One experience involved making bacon from over 80 animals, seeing the process from smokehouse to slicing.
Kelly said most people assume her degree is specific to pre-veterinary studies. However, her degree allows her to work in extension education, agribusiness management, and agricultural operations management. She can pursue a government job, such as a USDA Inspector. Kelly is particularly interested in jobs such as Food Safety Inspection Agent, specializing in import and export products. She says, “Agriculture is everywhere. It’s the backbone of this country. Thousands of animals help feed everyone each day. This is a way of life that has sustained generations of people.”
According to Janet Duffy of Eisman & Russo, Inc., “As the needs grow in our community, so does the need for our young men and women in our area to learn about and pursue a career in the Construction / Engineering profession. The Department of Transportation and the Transportation Industry have teamed together to put on a one-of-a-kind event to show high school students the many great career opportunities that exist so hopefully they will pursue a careers in our industry.”
Duffy is one of the many event organizers and volunteers who makes the event shine. Contractors, engineers and utility companies share their expertise with students each year to plant seeds in the hopes of growing interest in construction-related occupations.
The event is a partnership between the Florida Transportation Builders Association (FTBA), Industry Partners, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Students will interact with the industry via over 50 learning labs. Over 20 exhibitors are on hand as well. Students are given the opportunity to operate heavy equipment and learn more about scholarship opportunities offered by the NEFL Construction Career Days.
• Structured training system registered with the Florida Department of Education’s Workforce Development Division.
• 10 percent hourly rate increase every year of the program paid by the employer.
• Job placement assistance upon complete application submission.
• 2,000 hours of on-the-job training each year of the program.
• Graduate debt-free with four years of working experience in the second fastest growing industry in Florida.
NEFBA Apprenticeship partners with the Jacksonville Campus of Keiser University to offer workforce development career training in the form of paid apprenticeships. In 2016, Keiser and NEFBA won the “Innovator in Education” award through the Jacksonville Business Journal for their contribution to the industry.
In 2017, NEFBA Apprenticeship began participating with the Florida State Apprenticeship Grant program. As a participant, NEFBA has an articulation agreement in place with Florida State College of Jacksonville for three of their A.S. degree programs. Graduates of the NEFBA Apprenticeship program can be awarded up to 27 credit hours of college credit towards a 60 hour A.S. degree upon completion of any of NEFBA’s apprenticeship programs. This is an especially attractive option for apprentices who entered the program having previously completed college courses in high school or another college or university.
Erin is a third-year electrician apprentice at the Electrical Training Alliance of Jacksonville (ETA). This apprenticeship program offers work-based learning on site with veteran electricians as well as trade-related classroom and online learning. The program allows students to earn while they learn about the craft--all without incurring any debt.
Electrical professionals are employed in many capacities such as telephone and computer infrastructure, audio-visual installation, and electrical facility maintenance. According to etajax.org, electrical professionals “install, provide and maintain the backbone of power and information system’s needs.”
In 2018, Erin applied for and was accepted into the ETA’s apprenticeship program. Currently, she is halfway through her third year of a five-year program. Erin is working on a new construction build for Baptist Hospital, helping to build a Newborn Intensive Care Unit and a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (NICU/PICU). A typical day involves reporting to the job site at 7 AM and working 10 hours per day. This overtime is essential in completing the project. Erin also attends school twice a week in the evening.
Juggling this hectic schedule has its rewards, however. Erin enjoys the format, stating, “I really enjoy working in the field while going to school. I can directly apply what I am learning in the classroom on the job. Being involved in new construction is rewarding to see the progress and know your work building a hospital for children will impact the community for years to come.”
Making this career pathway change meant that Erin took a more physically demanding job rather than working at her computer desk each day. After some adjustment time, however, she truly enjoys a more active workday. Ultimately, the apprenticeship has opened many doors she hadn’t previously considered and has offered the chance to try several different aspects of electrical work. The future is exciting, as Erin has considered getting into solar and installing chargers for electric vehicles.
“I would encourage anyone, especially women, to get into the trade. It is a lot of hard work. Working full time and going to school isn’t easy, but you will be on a path to an amazing career. Being an electrician has so many different aspects to it, and the work is always changing and evolving with technology. It’s exciting to think about where this will lead in the future!”
At the completion of the apprenticeship, graduates receive 30 credits toward an AS degree in Industrial Management Technology at Florida State College of Jacksonville. So, individuals wishing to pursue a degree can leverage these credits toward developing their career pathway.
At JEA, Jacksonville’s community-owned utility, an employee resource group called Women in Trade works to ensure JEA can provide reliable electric, water and sewer services to our community. The group’s members frequently speak to young women at Jacksonville high schools and colleges to tout the benefits of choosing a trade career.
“We want young women to know that we will train you and help you learn a trade,” said David Emanuel, JEA’s Chief Human Resource Officer and co-chair of Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce’s Talent Advancement Network. “We offer well-paying jobs with opportunities for advancement. JEA is a great place to work.”
Just ask Carissa Seay, a Wastewater Reuse Treatment E&I technician. Her job is to inspect wastewater facilities in order to verify systems and equipment are working properly, and to make repairs as needed. “If you had told me in high school or college that I would be doing this as a career, I would have laughed,” said Seay, who graduated from Yulee High School and UNF. “Now I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Janelle Thomas-Hatch echoes that sentiment. “I believe more women should give non-traditional trade roles a chance,” said Thomas-Hatch, a Jacksonville native with a degree from Flagler College, who has worked at JEA for 13 years. “They can be very rewarding.”
Thomas-Hatch helps control the systems that keep JEA power plants working and ensures the facilities are operational and safe. She is a Safety SHAPE representative, a volunteer position that advocates and champions safety in in the workplace.
Thomas-Hatch and Seay both worked in other fields before pursuing their trade careers. Both first heard about working in trades from men who worked in the field. And both possessed skills, such as adaptability, critical thinking and patience that have helped them succeed in their trade.
“I enjoy the trouble-shooting aspect of my job,” Thomas-Hatch said.
“My job is rewarding because what I do directly impacts the community,” Seay said.
Thomas-Hatch and Seay started their training through the apprenticeship program at the Electrical Training Alliance of Jacksonville. After completing the five-year program, both women earned their professional licenses. At JEA, their professional training continues with JEA’s state-certified training programs.
JEA invests in the community by offering high school and college students a variety of apprenticeships, internships and mentoring programs. These programs provide hands-on experience for students, preparing them to become highly trained professionals in their field.
Thomas-Hatch encourages students interested in trade careers to explore opportunities in career and technical education programs offered at local high schools. Learn more on jea.com.
“If your school doesn’t offer a program, look for an internship,” said Thomas-Hatch.
Volunteering can also help those interested test the waters to see if they enjoy working in the trades. Seay recommends volunteering for organizations like Habitat for Humanity that work outside and use a variety of tools. Above all, Seay says don’t be intimated.
“We love what we do, and we would love to see more women working in the trades,” she said.
For Laquresha Prince, that means “much more opportunity than I would have had before. I’m grateful for that, because now I can have a career that puts me in a good position, and not only me, but my kids as well.”
Prince, mother to twin sons, was part of the Jaguars Group 4 class that graduated in Jacksonville in early November 2022.
For Marina Westcott, one of Prince’s fellow classmates, earning a Construction Ready education and the eight credentials that go with it is the gateway to “a career path, so I won’t have to work so many jobs.” Westcott has worked at a recycling company, at a Waffle House, and as an Uber driver, sometimes all in the same day.
Westcott and Prince, along with another female classmate, Courtney Davis, found encouragement in one another as they worked through the challenging 20-day curriculum.
Davis recalls feeling discouraged in the early days, but “as I got to know my classmates and these beautiful young ladies, they helped push me through,” she says.
Prince also found motivation by keeping the big picture in mind. As she recalls, “There were times where it was just like, I don’t want to get up, I don’t want to go to class, but just knowing what you are going to get out of it made it easier to actually show up and go through with the program.”
Training – and ultimately working – in a male-dominated industry can be intimidating, but by they time they graduated, it was clear this trio of women had earned their male counterparts’ respect. Many of the men in the class said as much in their graduation remarks.
“We were like a bunch of brothers and sisters,” says Westcott, whose job placement was with HB Next, a provider of training, safety and environmental compliance solutions. Like all graduates, she finished the training not only with basic construction skills, but as a better-prepared professional in general.
“This whole program gave us the tools that we needed,” Westcott says. “Even things we didn’t even know that we didn’t know – resumes and interviewing … we needed all that.”
Partnerships make successful training environments such as this possible. In Jacksonville, the National Football League’s Jaguars provided initial funding and brought the program to the city in early 2022, creating a win-win situation for both jobseekers and industry. With regard to the latter, Construction Ready provided a new labor source not only for area contractors, but for the Jaguars themselves, who are building a state-of-the-art training and operations facility, the Miller Electric Center, adjacent to their home field, TIAA Bank Stadium. And the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) provided scholarships that enabled these three women to go through the program.
Now Westcott can set new goals, one of which is helping her father.
“I just really want to be able to hand him a $50,000 check and say, ‘Please retire.’ That’s my main goal. I want him to retire, and I want him to be happy and proud of me and all the rest of his kids.”
Davis and Prince have their own goals as well. Prince nicely sums up her post-graduation circumstances with a construction analogy. Asked what she wants to do next, she says, “To be bigger and better – to reach for the stars. Or should I say, reach for the scaffold?”
Haskell, an architecture, engineering, construction and consulting firm headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, was seeking to fill positions at the Miller Electric Center job site, where the Jacksonville Jaguars’ training and administrative complex is slated for a summer 2023 opening.
Mosley, the company’s Senior Manager for Field Personnel, says “Jabril really stood out” as he looked through a set of resumes in preparation for a Construction Ready hiring fair in the fall of 2022.
As Mosley recalls, “Our training director had looked at Jabril, too, and he cut to the chase and said, ‘I want to know who you picked; here’s my picks.’ And his first pick was Jabril as well. So we could see there was potential, the two of us seeing something in someone who was willing to learn.”
The interest, it turned out, ran both ways. In fact, before Jabril even set foot in the Construction Ready classroom, he had an eye toward a career at Haskell.
“Going into the program I saw that Haskell was one of the sponsors, and in my mind I was already thinking I would like to work for them,” Jabril says. “I always said I wanted to be in design and building construction, and Construction Ready put me on that path toward getting there. Without Construction Ready I wouldn’t have been able to connect with Haskell the way I wanted to.”
When Jabril showed up at the hiring fair, he confirmed Mosley’s initial impressions.
“Again, he stood out above the rest,” Mosley says. “He had this interest in design, so you could tell he had a little bit of creativity to him and a willingness to learn, not just wanting a job. He spoke well, asked the right questions. We continued the conversation probably 30 or 45 minutes, just because it was so nice to meet someone that has potential.”
Jabril landed the job, and while he came into it with no construction experience, he had already shown he was eager to learn throughout his time in the Construction Ready pre-apprenticeship program.
“I hadn’t been in school in a while, so I liked that I was learning again, especially something that I had a lot of interest in already,” he says. “And there were Lunch and Learns where you hear from different companies. I liked seeing the different ins and outs of what those companies do.”
Each day on the job site has been a process of continuing education for Jabril. Clearly a thoughtful young man, he came up with an insightful analogy to describe his work.
“Starting off they had me doing just basic things,” Jabril says, “but I like to think that what I’m doing kind of coincides with my own education. Like when I was laying foundations [for the Jaguar facilities], I was also laying a foundation for my career. When I’m setting forms, I’m forming myself, too – I’m learning different things every day.”
Assistant Superintendent Alfredo de la Cruz, Jabril’s direct supervisor, echoes Mosley’s comments about Jabril’s potential.
“He’s been doing really good,” de la Cruz says. “I like his attitude. I see Jabril years from now in a different position. He’s willing to learn, he’s always there to help, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.”
Jabril’s story is a great example of how Construction Ready’s pre-apprenticeship program can jumpstart a career in a hurry. In his case, a college football career at Florida Atlantic University had not worked out. The Jacksonville native was back in his hometown working in security when he began researching construction careers.
“I found a few different programs and apprenticeships, then I came across Construction Ready,” he remembers. “It was the quickest one – it said you could get hired for a construction job in like 30 days. So I applied and I got a call from someone who said there would be a class coming up in October.”
The training – actually it’s 20 days – provides instruction in basic construction skills, up to eight industry-recognized credentials, and those all-important connections to real employers who are hiring for real jobs. The best matches come when graduates are willing to keep learning, and employers – such as Haskell – are willing to help them do so.
“This company identifies people who have potential, and they will help develop that,” Mosley confirms. “We want to show them that this is a career. I believe Jabril is definitely taking the steps to continue, so we want to advance his education, get him experience on the job sites, and give him a little bit more [responsibility]. So far it’s been working great.”
A bonus for Jabril is that his first on-the-job experience was helping build a facility for the Jaguars, his lifelong favorite team.
“I mean, grew up in a teal-colored room,” he says, referring to the Jaguars’ distinct primary color. “Just being out here is cool to me, because knowing I’m helping build their practice facility, that sticks with me.”
So far it’s working out just as he envisioned: “It was cool that I had [working for Haskell] in mind, and now I’m here.”
Samir Mujtaba, a Jacksonville native, is an Architecture Design Associate at The Haskell Company, a global, fully integrated, design-build and EPC firm headquartered in Jacksonville. His passion for design and creating innovative solutions to help improve lives emerged while he was a student at Bartram Trail High School and enrolled in Haskell’s High School Intern Program. He says the experience set the foundation for a successful career in architecture.
“The more you learn, the quicker you can advance,” said Mujtaba.
The High School Intern Program at Haskell is unpaid and offers a curriculum for rising high school seniors to gain architectural, engineering and construction exposure. During their six weeks in Haskell’s headquarters, students work on projects, tour job sites, participate in training through Haskell University and give weekly presentations to Haskell team members. The program started in 2018 with six students, including Mujtaba.
“It was clear to me that I wanted to pursue architecture as a career after my first internship experience at Haskell,” said Mujtaba.
Following his second year at the University of South Florida, Mujtaba transitioned into Haskell’s College Internship Program. The college program is a paid internship and students work on active projects. After his second year of college, Mujtaba transferred to the University of Florida and completed two more summer internships at Haskell before earning a bachelor’s degree in Architecture in 2023. Following graduation, Mujtaba was offered full-time employment at Haskell. He is the first full-time hire that participated in the high school internship program.
“In addition to architecture, I learned about business communications, business etiquette and goal setting in my internships,” said Mujtaba.
Both internship programs have grown extensively since their beginnings and continue to expand even more. In 2023, Haskell employed 89 summer college interns and welcomed 14 high school interns. At Haskell, interns work closely with team members and are given assignments that are critical to the company’s daily operations. Student interns gain job experience that better prepares them for potential full-time positions after graduation. Interns are a vital part of Haskell’s efforts to attract the best possible talent to contribute to creating world-class solutions for clients. Among the students participating in the collegiate program, approximately 90% receive an offer to return or transition to a full-time employee.
Mujtaba is well suited for a career as an architect. He is creative, likes to draw and build, enjoys technology, and is eager to learn. He enjoys working independently on multiple projects and as part of a team. While math skills are important, advanced math is not a prerequisite in this career. During his internships, Mujtaba became certified in AutoCad and proficient in Revit programs. His drive and initiative gave him an edge for future employment. Mujtaba is grateful for the experiences and opportunities Haskell has provided and credits his supervisors for providing valuable advice and mentorship.
“My advice to other students is to start as soon as you can and learn as much as you can,” Mujtaba said. “You’ll stand out and be ahead of everyone else around you.”
“I realized how hard life could get without an education or degree, and not having a skill to fall back on,” said Martinez, who was born and raised in Northeast Florida.
At age 19, Martinez enrolled in the GED preparation course at Clay County Adult & Community Education. The organization provides continuing education courses for adult students within Clay and the surrounding counties. For adults without a high school diploma, earning a GED can help in many ways and lead to other career training programs. After completing the preparation course, Martinez took the exam to earn his GED.
“It took willpower to get the course done,” Martinez said. “But once I earned my GED, doors began to open for me.”
Through his contacts at Clay County Adult & Community Education, Martinez learned about opportunities with the Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) Apprenticeship Program. The four-year apprenticeship program offers training while students work full time with their employer and attend school to earn a trade license. Carpentry, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing and Sheet Metal are the five trades that are being offered to students who have earned a high school diploma or GED. The program is 100% tuition-free. Martinez enrolled in the Electrical Apprenticeship program in June 2023.
“I am ‘shocked’ at how much I have learned so far in less than a year,” Martinez said with a smile.
The Electrical Apprenticeship program trains individuals to become journeymen electricians with electrical classes and on the job training with electrical businesses sponsoring the program. The employers pay the students for their work and education.
As a NEFBA apprentice, Martinez has been given the opportunity to work hands-on beside highly skilled professionals on both commercial and residential job sites. Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing electrical power, communications, lighting and control systems for homes and businesses. They are proficient trade workers who embrace problem-solving and troubleshooting, and they are able to confidently face new challenges at every job site.
“I approach every job with an open mind, and I am ready to conquer whatever comes my way,” Martinez said.
Martinez is paid an hourly wage while receiving on-the-job training at T&M Electric, Inc. in Orange Park. The training is supplemented with classroom instruction on site two nights a week. After six months in the program, Martinez received his first raise. Throughout the program, apprentices receive industrial credentials. After graduation, they receive a certificate of completion from the Florida Department of Education which makes them eligible for their journeyman certification.
“After the apprentice program ends, I’ll be on my way to becoming a master electrician,” Martinez said.
Earning a GED and enrolling in the NEFBA Apprenticeship Program has been life-changing for Martinez. He encourages everyone interested in learning new skills and a trade to consider an apprenticeship.
“This program is a great opportunity and useful to anyone who wants to be successful,” Martinez said.
"As a kid, I broke a lot of bones and had a lot of x-rays. Despite being in pain, I was fascinated by my x-rays and wanted an explanation of what those x-rays meant," Mandy said.
Following completion of the Mayo program, Mandy left Jacksonville and worked at a Pensacola Hospital as an X-ray Technologist. There, she helped train college radiography students. Mandy moved back to Jacksonville to work in MRI, but the spark for teaching was lit. So, when a former professor reached out with an adjunct teaching opportunity, Mandy's career path changed. This led to Keiser University, where she's taught for six years.
Mandy realized "There's a lot to education. You're not just standing in front of a classroom." So, she pursued her master's degree in Education with Keiser University and is now in the process of earning her Doctorate in Educational Technology from Walden University. Those doctorate studies have added tremendous value to her teaching approach during the pandemic, as she implemented strategies learned into her own classroom. She also continued use of a pre-pandemic strategy of asking students to record themselves executing learned skills, followed up by self-assessment. This has now become a best practice in her teaching repertoire and ensures that students are ready for clinical experiences.
One of her favorite moments while teaching is when a student's learning all comes together. "We study medical terminology, positioning, radiation physics, and anatomy and physiology. When that lightbulb moment happens, I have genuine excitement for students."
In her role as Clinical Coordinator at Keiser University, Mandy visits over 20 clinical sites to assess students in action. These sites are top healthcare systems in the region who hire students following degree completion. Mandy follows students in the field as working techs. She said, "I want students to go into their clinicals and love it." However, she will encourage them to continue their education via Keiser's Bachelor in Imaging Science program.
"Teaching is one of the most rewarding things you can do, so it takes time to know yourself and develop your style. It's okay to question yourself and feel overwhelmed, "claims Mandy. She encourages new teachers to find a mentor and keep a journal. She sees the role of the teacher as being a perpetually positive leader who easily adapts to change, someone who ensures that students are seen and heard, and someone who illuminates the "why" and "how" to students so they can put learning into practice. One of Mandy's favorite quotes speaks to this philosophy and comes from William Butler Yeats: "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire."
Ultimately, broken bones have led to a fulfilling career pathway as a college educator.
As a child, Ford was diagnosed with leukemia; he missed most of his seventh-grade year due to hospitalization and being homebound. Ford was able to transition back into the classroom successfully due to his eighth-grade English teacher, Ms. Tave, whom he credits for being instrumental in his career pathway choice as well. Ford remembers that she allowed students to free write at the beginning of class, which was a great way for him to work through his thoughts and feelings. His appreciation for this special teacher provided a spark and influenced his choice to pursue teaching.
A Jacksonville native and graduate of William M. Raines High School Ford pursued his undergraduate studies in Information Technology at the University of North Florida. He also obtained his master's degree in Information Technology at Florida State University.
Ford has three years of teaching experience. He has taught in third and fifth grades and now supports teachers and students in all grade levels as a math interventionist. He enjoys teaching more complex math, science, logic, and reasoning skills at higher grade levels.
Prior to transferring to Rufus E. Payne in the interventionist role, he developed Carter G. Woodson Elementary's plan for data-driven instruction. He uses positive behavior management through innovation and a student-centered approach which is evidenced in his classroom by use of structure, technology, and hands-on engagement opportunities. "There are different ways of learning and instruction needed to meet different learning styles to make sure you reach every child in the classroom."
As a teacher, each class begins with Ford detailing why students need to learn the material, including sharing with students how they can use their skills in real-world applications and occupations. He emphasizes that learning through fun is paramount in his classroom, saying, "It's a better experience overall and students don't even realize they're learning." Ford incorporates movement, collaboration, and accountability into his daily instruction as well, emphasizing that students make each other better leaders when they're engaged.
These teaching techniques garnered the attention of his colleagues, resulting in Ford being one of five finalists for the 2021 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year. Ford, sponsored by Wells Fargo, was honored as one of only five finalists at the 30th Annual EDDY Awards presented by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund as part of a group of committed educators from Southside Middle School, Mandarin High School, R.L. Brown Gifted and Talented Academy, and Lake Lucina Elementary School.
Not only was the recognition from colleagues inspiring, but Ford shared "After the Teacher of the Year nomination, I got a lot of emails from former students." However, the most rewarding aspect of education is "when students grow academically as well as human beings--their transformation. We're building students up. I want to push them to become leaders themselves so when they're adults, they're already trained leaders."
Ford has learned to adapt amid challenging circumstances as a teacher. With half of his career set against the global COVID-19 pandemic, Ford learned to use more technology and investigate new means of reaching and impacting his students. He will continue using some of these proven strategies.
Despite these challenges, Ford offers this advice to anyone considering a career pathway in education. He said, "Do it. Connect with other educators. They'll help guide you through the process. It will help you adjust quickly. Stay connected with your colleagues to share resources and learn from each other. Stick it out. You're learning in that first year, but experiences teaches you how to adjust."
Based on Florida Frameworks for Early Childhood Education, students engage in learning about financial management associated with operating a childcare center; health, safety, and environmental issues such as identifying child abuse and neglect; adherence to all rules and regulations associated with working in or managing a daycare; and developmentally appropriate practices for children through age eight.
Geraldine Thompson is the lead Early Childhood Academy teacher at Frank H. Peterson. She’s been in the teaching profession for over thirty years. While most of her career was spent in Health Education, Geraldine always liked Family and Consumer Science. So, she returned to obtain the additional certification in Early Childhood Education.
Geraldine shared that the academy involves students from freshman to senior. In her three years of teaching in this particular program, 23 students have received their national certification. To qualify to take the test, students must have 480 hours of lab experience with children ages birth through five years, professional observation by the Council for Professional Recognition, and 120 hours of Early Childhood Education. Students must take and pass the written exam administered by the Council of Professional Recognition to obtain the CDA.
Students receive hands-on experience onsite at Frank H. Peterson via the Silver Eaglets’ Preschool. This is not a daycare—specific, thematic curriculum is taught by students. The Silver Eaglets’ Preschool is offered from 8:30-1:00 Monday through Friday, allowing ample time for assessment of student understanding and application of course material. Parents can bring in children ages 2 to 5 years old. Typically, 15 to 20 preschoolers attend. Student-teachers are divided into different disciplines with the goal of preparing the preschoolers for kindergarten. This experience also prepares students for taking the CDA exam.
Geraldine likes the applicability and functionality of the CDA. Many successful, nationally recognized experts in the field started their careers with a CDA foundation. Due to the COVI-19 pandemic, students have been doing more independent research projects at home. Geraldine recently assigned her students to study and report on these experts, such as the CEO for the Council of Professional Recognition (cdacouncil.org) and the National association of Educational Young Children (naeyc.org). This research is also serving the purpose of promoting student membership in organizations that advocate leadership skills.
Students are learning that transferrable skills generated from this certification are very important. Geraldine indicated that, “Even in the midst of COVID, you can transition how you use childcare skills. You can do Zoom lessons with students. Even as a parent, students will use this knowledge.”
Students have seen that this curriculum has value and provides a great career pathway perspective. She shared that a student emailed her, saying, “My eyes are opened and I really want to pursue this profession now.” Students who have graduated from the program are using this credential in various ways. Two are working in pre-schools looking to direct and own their own pre-schools, combining an educational and entrepreneurial pathway. One student obtained her CDA as a Junior and has worked the entire school year in a pre-school. She is pursuing a college major related to children.
Ultimately, a high school academy can provide a fantastic framework for foundational skills leading to one’s chosen profession.
The Rotary International sponsored Magdaluyo, who was one of Duval County Public School's 180 Teachers of the Year. After being selected as one of fifteen semi-finalists and narrowed to five finalists, Magdaluyo was identified as being the district’s top example of an educational professional and a true difference-maker.
Magdaluyo is in his fourth year of teaching Anatomy & Physiology at Ribault High School, where he has also taught Biology. After studying at the Philippine Normal University, renowned for its educational degree programs, Mr. M came to Jacksonville and began teaching one week later. However, his entrance into education was not as straightforward.
As the oldest sibling, Magdaluyo’s parents often asked that he look after his siblings. His default “babysitting” mode included playing teacher. Although he knew in his heart he wanted to teach science, he initially pursued post-secondary studies in graphics technology based on his parent’s encouragement and his exam scores. After one year of study, Magdaluyo admitted to his parents that he would not be happy unless he pursued teaching as his chosen career pathway—and true vocation.
Once Magdaluyo settled on this decision, his enthusiasm and commitment has not waivered. The quality of his instructional methods and his approach to student centered learning make his classroom one in which students easily can feel comfortable and engaged. He says, “A teacher nurtures through their content, but also by teaching character and 21st century skills. Show students your energy and you’ll see it in return.”
Often, students think that their teachers chose their profession because they were themselves outstanding students. However, Magdaluyo shares that he was not the best student as a child, but that he witnessed his teachers working diligently on his behalf. He understands the stress of not always understanding the classroom material. As a result, he insists on creating a physical classroom environment of belonging. A few of his strategies involve creative bulletin boards, classroom seating arranged into teams, and interaction while students problem-solve in real-time.
The start of his teaching career was not picture perfect. Magdaluyo said he reflected after each day to determine how he could more effectively interact with each student. His daily analysis combined with the mentorship provided by his administrators and fellow teachers improved his classroom management skills and teaching style. He says, “You don’t learn from your experiences. You learn from reflecting on your experiences.”
Magdaluyo enjoys teaching subject matter that is difficult but also connects to social issues, such as mental health. He teaches students to arm themselves with facts so they can think critically and be socially aware rather than rely on misinformation.
Magdaluyo’s teaching philosophy requires that he considers the whole student and their development both in and outside of his classroom. “Students can be strong in mind but also in character to create a better community,” he says. As such, he incorporates what he calls the “Three Gs” into his classroom: goal setting, growth mindset, and grit. He encourages his students to set goals, believe in themselves, stay productive and persist through obstacles.
“This is not just a job. It is a vocation. You burn out if you do something you don’t like,” says Magdaluyo. As such, his influence reaches beyond his classroom. He helps other international teachers feel comfortable in their new surroundings through learning communities.
Truly, succeeding in the educational career pathway requires the Three Gs from those who wish to pursue it. Perhaps, like Mr. M., teaching is for you.
These questions and more have been answered by the Putnam County School District via the Paras to Pros Program (Paraprofessionals to Professionals). Tonya Whitehurst, Area Director of Human Resources for the District says this program is a “win-win-win.” The Paras to Pros program is an exclusive offer for those working as paraprofessionals in the Putnam County School District. It’s an internal program established to grow their own talent.
However, it takes a strong partnership to sustain the Paras to Pros program. Initially, Saint Leo University approached Putnam Schools to create a program leveraging their Elementary Education, Bachelor of Arts, K-6 degree program. While enrolled in their degree program, they’ll learn Classroom Management, Educational Technology, Teaching Diverse Populations, Reading Foundations in the Elementary Classroom, and courses in teaching Elementary Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts. Saint Leo received approval from the State of Florida to utilize the in-class experience already gleaned by the paraprofessionals to apply to their practicum and internship hour requirements. No leave of absence is required to complete the final internship required. Paraprofessionals that are targeted for this program have an associate degree or 60 college credit hours, as well as one year of service in the district. These individuals must be interested in pursuing a Bachelor Degree in Education and sign an Intent to Enroll Agreement.
Tonya indicated that the District’s goal was to achieve a ten student class for an initial paraprofessional cohort. Last spring, they achieved that goal with a cohort of 10. Nine of ten are still enrolled in the program. Instructors and administrators within the District having Masters in Education Leadership and Reading degrees also assist with providing instruction. Students take two face-to-face classes and two online classes per semester. There are many benefits of participating in this program, such as access to tuition assistance. Paraprofessional students accepted into the program receive reduced tuition from Saint Leo. Many students qualify for student aid and grants such as the Florida Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) grant, which flattens the cost of tuition to $320 per credit hour at a rate locked in for two years. Students can also reduce their tuition via a TEACH grant by committing to teach in a low socioeconomic school.
Putnam County Schools purchase textbooks that students can check out and use—a Paras to Pros Library. Saint Leo agreed to keep the same textbook for two to three cohorts, so it allows the District to alleviate costs without incurring a great deal of costs themselves.
At the end of the 2020-2021 school year, nine paraprofessionals will have earned a BA in Elementary Education from Saint Leo. Students finishing the program will be considered first for hire. The District will help students with a subject area exam if they are interested in transitioning to middle grades. Graduates agree to work for the District for a minimum of one year.
Tonya sees a distinct advantage in growing their own talent pipeline. Throughout the Para’s degree program which involves student teaching experiences, District teachers can observe strengths, weaknesses, and improvements, all which will determine the best placement within the District.
Tonya anticipates that the Paras to Pros Program will only keep on building. “It’s motivating because paraprofessionals can clearly see the end result.” Typically, individuals can be reluctant to pay for and pursue training that may not yield a promotion. The Paras to Pros Program removes that apprehension. Tonya anticipates a waiting list and increased interest after the first cohort graduates. “The District has a long-term recruiting and retention strategy as well as succession planning.” Clearly, this career pathway checks a lot of boxes for Putnam County Schools.
Carley attended Keystone Heights as a student and was involved in Keystone's Agriscience pathway from middle school through high school. Carley's family has a strong agricultural background, as her paternal grandfather farmed. Carley showed steer and raised cows. She participated in 4-H in Elementary School and FFA in High School.
Carley was dual-enrolled, earning an Associate degree from Santa Fe College while attending KHHS. She earned a B.S. in Agriculture Education the University of Florida. It wasn't Carley's plan to return to Clay County after her college graduation.
Carley had interned at Santa Fe High School, which had a large lab in conjunction with a veterinary science program. She thought she would stay around Union and Alachua Counties. However, a position opened up in Clay County. Combine that opportunity with a bit of homesickness, and Carley realized she was "meant to go home."
Currently, Carley teaches 3 Middle School and 2 High School agriculture classes. She taught at Lake Asbury Junior High School for a year and has been at KHHS for the past two years. Her middle school courses focus on introductory information on the basics of the agriculture industry, such as plants and animals. Her high school courses delve more deeply into animal agriscience. Unlike Carley, only a handful of her students work or live on a farm or are involved in 4-H. However, her passion and enthusiasm resonates in the classroom. She knew from an early age that her career pathway involved sharing her skills and knowledge in the classroom.
Carley is motivated to provide students experiences they'll remember. She recalls student amazement at planting a seed, watching it grow, and harvesting it. She said students enjoy the experience of raising a baby calf to become a full grown 1,200 pound animal by April—an animal they have fed, brushed and provided care. She also cited field trips as being an experience students enjoy, particularly the Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, Georgia each October. This hands-on event feature vendors such as John Deere. Carley charters a bus for 50 students. This perennial favorite of some students involves horse demonstrations, a livestock pavilion and field demonstrations.
Another fun aspect of Carley's pursuit of the educational pathways is her ability to reach students who have an interest in both agriculture and technology. Self-driving tractors have GPS technology embedded in the equipment to maximize efficiency in planting and harvesting, as well as maximize crop yield. Weather analysis, automated irrigations, and reduced water usage are all end-products of increased technology used in today's agriculture. Carley cited one Keystone graduate who was keenly interested in drones, so he pursued a Drone Technology Program at the University of North Florida. He intends to use this skill to fly over farms, providing remote surveillance of properties and helping to identify potential issues with crops or livestock without the cost of manual inspections.
One of Carley's favorite aspects of teaching is seeing the lasting effects on kids. One parent approached her after a draining first year of teaching and indicated, "You've brought him out of his shell. He's actually talking about his career plans now." Much like her students tracking the growth of their plants or animals, Carley enjoys monitoring the continued growth of her students after they've left Keystone High School. Carley encourages anyone considering education as a career path that they'll have such a tremendous impact on students. She acknowledges the significant demand for teachers. "It's a hard job. Some days are rough, especially in your first year. It's worth it. Kids see your passion and interest, and they'll appreciate it. Surround yourself with a team of other teachers you can count on and bounce ideas off of, even if they're not in your content area."
Carley has made an impact on senior teachers and colleagues as well. Former Agriculture teacher and current Career & Technical Education Supervisor for Clay County Schools, Kelly Mosley, says, "Carley is a wonderful example. She is a natural teacher and she is a tremendous example of a ‘beginning' teacher. It always surprises me she has only been teaching for 3 years because she has skills and abilities far beyond her years!"
Sometimes in life, the same soil that helps to grow you is the soil you also cultivate for others.
“I believe teachers can make a difference and change lives, one student at a time,” said Wirt, College and Career Counselor at Clay High School, “You have the opportunity to make the community, society and the world a better place.”
Wirt, Coordinator of Academies and CTE Pathways at Clay High School, was honored as one of Clay County’s Teachers of the Year. A graduate of Orange Park High School, Wirt joined Clay County District Schools in 1992 after earning an associate’s degree at St. Johns River State College and a bachelor’s degree in Career and Technical Education and Guidance at the University of West Florida.
“The District has been very supportive of CTE, and my success is a result of the teamwork between the administration, guidance counselors and teachers at Clay High School,” said Wirt.
The Clay County District Schools offers robust CTE programs at each Junior High and Senior High School. From Aerospace to Welding, there is an abundance of opportunities for students to discover their passion. Students can earn industry certifications in addition to their high school diploma through CTE. Wirt has helped hundreds of students identify career pathways.
“Our goal is to help students identify programs of interest, make them aware of all of the jobs available in that field and learn the skills essential for career success,” said Wirt.
She has played a vital role in the program’s success. Wirt served as the lead/school coordinator for two academies that achieved Model Career Academy status, a prestigious national distinction and mark of excellence. The academies are the Clay High School Academy of Criminal Justice, which has achieved Model Career Academy status twice, and the Fleming Island High School VyStar Academy of Business.
Business partnerships are essential to the academies’ success. More than 50 local businesses provide worked-based learning experiences, internships and scholarships. Many business leaders have helped by serving as mentors.
“Our business partners have opened up doors for our students’ success,” Wirt said.
As College and Career Coach, Wirt connects with students, discussing curriculum opportunities and creating a four-year personalized academic plan that includes earning a diploma and having a post-secondary plan in place. She encourages and inspires students to step outside of their comfort zones.
“I chose the VyStar Academy for its valuable experience and to participate in an internship at VyStar,” said senior Ryan Freeman. “My time in the academy has significantly improved my confidence and social skills."
Currently, 91% of Clay High School’s student population are taking CTE classes and 28% of seniors in CTE have entered the workforce upon graduation.
“The three years I’ve been in the Academy of Criminal Justice have given me a better understanding of Florida laws and different career opportunities in the field of Criminal Justice,” said junior Michael Land. “The experience has helped me become a better person and better prepared for life after high school.”
In a classroom equipped with four hospital beds, equipment, technology, and the requisite mannequins, Collins and Dewberry bring synergy and realism to their health science program, a co-hort model extending from freshman through senior year.
Students begin the Academy as freshmen and continue with the same co-hort through their senior year. As such, the group feels more like an extended family. This “family” is supported by regional businesses and education partners such as Baptist South, River Garden, St. Vincent’s, Keiser University, Florida State College at Jacksonville, University of North Florida, and Jersey College. They have impacted the program through their work on the Academy Advisory Board, providing clinical sites and donating equipment.
As Mrs. Collins is an RN and Mrs. Dewberry an EMT, they are constantly supplementing their instruction with real world experience from industry. RN’s and EMT’s approach their work very differently, as the scenario determines the response. Thus, students get a perspective from each teacher on how to respond to 12 patients needing continual care instead of 1 person needing emergency care.
As freshmen, students learn health science foundations, communication, and teamwork. Students are put into working groups selected by their teacher. “Students don’t get to pick their colleagues or their patients in the real world,” said Collins.
Each year builds on the prior year. Freshmen and sophomores will learn both soft and practical skills such as communication, First Aid/CPR, sterile technique, and vital signs. As juniors, students take Anatomy and Physiology with additional focus on diseases, treatments, prognoses, and careers. The senior courses prepare students for their certification tests.
Part of this preparation includes 16 clinical hours in a medical facility and completing lab hours on campus. When students are at Baptist South, they will be exposed to the Emergency Room, Radiology, and Cath Labs. Students have even been in surgery and post-surgery settings. There they practice the skills they have learned while shadowing professionals. When students say, “’I can read these charts’, they have moment of clarity and accomplishment” according to Dewberry.
Students learn about the multitude of opportunities in biomedicine that exist in Jacksonville. Participating in a virtual classroom with Brooks Rehabilitation allowed students to see how lasers, sensors and plates monitored an athlete jumping and generated data to best evaluate a knee injury. Students have also visited Medtronic to see the medical equipment produced.
Students leave the program with two certifications: CMAA and EKG Technician. The CMAA is an allied health credential which equips students for front office, scheduling, greeting patients and handling payments. Students must complete 10 live EKGs before they can sit for the exam.
Mandarin students participate in HOSA—Future Health Professionals, an extra-curricular activity aligned to national standards. HOSA teaches leadership through competition and community service. Mandarin HOSA is student run and consistently places in regional and state competitions. Students are now looking to compete globally.
Students succeed in the workforce following graduation. For example, one Mandarin graduate is now a lab assistant at Baptist’s downtown campus; several are nurses at Baptist locations. Another former student is mentoring a currently enrolled student. Many are pursuing their studies to be nurse practitioners and physical therapists. The value of this program extends beyond high school. Student Mandy Nguyen said, “The Medical Academy has given me the opportunity to gain and expand my knowledge in health care. This will set me up for success towards future education and careers.”
Crawford is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher - Commercial Art at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology, a public magnet career and college preparatory high school in Jacksonville.
A Jacksonville native, Crawford graduated from Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology in 2011 and from Flagler College with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design in 2015. After graduation, she moved to Orlando for her first professional job but returned to Jacksonville after a year. Crawford spent more than five years working in the design industry in a variety of environments including agency and business settings. She began teaching at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology in September 2020.
“I always thought I would end up working in education although I didn’t think it would happen this early in my career – but I love it,” Crawford said.
Crawford teaches Commercial Art Technology in the Communications Academy, preparing students for careers in the creative industry after high school or college. The Communications Academy also offers programs in Television Production and Digital Information Technology/IT.
A self-described “art kid,” Crawford had a passion for art and knew early on she wanted to study design. Her transition to teaching occurred in part because she maintained relationships with many of her former teachers.
“I had many key educators – in elementary, high school and college,” Crawford said. “They all left an impression on me. I knew one day I would love to emulate that energy in a classroom setting.”
One of her mentors is Michael Fuller, now retired but who had been Crawford’s commercial art teacher at the Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology. Fuller contacted Crawford when a teaching vacancy became available.
“I wasn’t looking for a change, but when it was put in front of me, I knew I needed to jump at the opportunity,” Crawford said.
As an educator, Crawford draws on her professional design experience combined with her passion for creative problem solving. For the transition to teaching, Crawford earned her teaching certificate and Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop certifications. Crawford enjoys working with students.
“Being an educator isn’t just showing up to a classroom,” Crawford said. “I’m excited to help launch students into their careers.”
Students at the Academy earn industry certifications and regularly receive on-the-job training through internships. Crawford’s students work on a variety of real-world projects. In April, they will design marketing materials to promote the Healing Hearts Project’s fun run. This project also provides an opportunity for the academy to support a non-profit organization.
“Skills with Adobe products are guaranteed to give a leg up when pursuing a career at any point in time because of the early exposure that was provided,” said student Dante Pierre. “When you're exposed early to these kinds of professional programs, you develop a skillset that never truly becomes obsolete.”
Many of Crawford’s students value the Academy’s programs.
“I believe this Academy is helping my school life improve overall,” said student Danielle Wilson. “I'm learning things about websites, programs, editing and design, and I'm learning concepts that allow my school work to look nicer and my creativity to flow.”
“As a cosmetology educator, you have to have a passion for the profession and also for teaching,” she said. “I absolutely love what I do.”
Rowell is the head cosmetology instructor at the Cosmetology Academy at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology, a public magnet career and college preparatory high school in Jacksonville. The school is home to eight academies, including culinary, automotive and aviation. In 2022, the Cosmetology Academy obtained Master Academy Status following an intensive CTE Academy Accreditation review process. A Master Academy is the highest standard obtained in the Duval County Public Schools’ Accountability and Assessment Process.
A Jacksonville native, Rowell is a graduate of the program when it was the Westside Skills Center. She also has worked in her family-owned salon, Renewed Image Hair and Nail Salon, for 30 years. She returned to the school to teach in 2007.
“In both professions, as a cosmetologist and as a teacher, you have the opportunity to positively impact someone’s life,” Rowell said. “In the salon, you work with clients who leave feeling good about themselves. In the classroom, you work with students and experience their excitement when they advance their skills and knowledge.”
Students in the cosmetology academy work toward the 1200 school hours and the understanding to pass the Florida Board of Cosmetology exam. In addition to career-ready coursework, students acquire the necessary skills hands-on in the academy’s fully equipped hair and nail salon that is open to the public. All of the work at the salon – haircuts, braiding, coloring, manicures and facials – is done by students working toward earning their state cosmetology licenses.
“The academy prepares you for the real world,” said student Naiya Turner. “It allows you to experience real life situations, such as doing a consultation with a client.”
Students in the program learn all aspects of the cosmetology business. They also acquire other professional business skills including how to communicate with others, how to work as part of a team, time management and how to market their business.
“The cosmetology program provides you with a variety of skills that you can use in any occupation,” said student Feynix Luna. “The experience has helped me determine the direction I want to pursue as a career.”
A cosmetology license opens the door to many career choices. Rowell’s students have gone on to work as hair stylists, salon owners and as beauty industry educators and trainers. Many of her alumni students return to the academy to mentor current students, sharing real-life experiences about their careers.
“The benefits we receive at the academy are amazing,” said student Shalicia Wilson. “We learn everything we need to obtain our Florida license.”
While it’s vital to have an interest in hair, makeup and style, Rowell says being a cosmetologist also requires exceptional social skills and an enthusiasm for serving others and helping someone feel and look good.
“As cosmetologists, it is essential to have the passion for the job you are doing,” Rowell said. “When my students venture off into their own areas of expertise, it is so gratifying to see.”
After 20 years of active military service, which included 6 combat tours in Iraq and Bosnia, as well as 3 tours in Korea, Jesus Garay started Global Freight & Commerce. Not one to let military retirement in 2014 ease his schedule, Garay has not only started a small business, but lends his time and support to community endeavors. A Jacksonville native, Garay is passionate about investing in real opportunities for the community so that others can have a solid, profitable career. He participates in events such as job fairs, conferences on topics such as Opportunity Zones, and community events like the JAX Chamber's The Longest Table. His abundant energy and commitment to seeing others succeed makes him a valuable entrepreneur in Northeast Florida, as well as an excellent mentor to employees and community members seeking to change their lives.
According to their website, Global Freight & Commerce is a 100% owner-operated trucking company and an industry-freight leader. Owner-operators have the ability to earn above average wages in the industry. Partners include Department of Defense, FEMA, JB Hunt, and Pepsi.
When honoring Garay, Rubio stated, "A member of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Global Freight & Commerce is also involved in the community… which provide leadership training to assist and develop the local workforce. Veteran-owned businesses such as Global Freight & Commerce are examples of the talent and dedication of our nation's veterans. I look forward to watching Global Freight & Commerce's continued growth and success."
“Success is equal to failing less,” said Emmons, a software engineering consultant who discovered the Jacksonville region is a dynamic hub for technology development and employment.
“Technology is complicated, intimidating and daunting, and learning it can be scary,” Emmons said. “In time, you have a better understanding and become more comfortable with the unknown. I’m drawn to activities where you have to fail before you can advance.”
As a youth growing up in Fernandina Beach, Emmons enjoyed computer games and had an interest in knowing more about the people behind game development. At 12, he didn’t hesitate to reach out to more than 40 industry professionals via email. He made a connection with three.
“I formed friendships with people who eventually became mentors,” Emmons said. “It’s important to surround yourself with likeminded individuals who make you feel comfortable.”
A 2017 graduate of Fernandina Beach High School, Emmons discovered his passion for technology and software development in the Nassau County School District’s Java Programming and Application Development curriculum at the Lewis “Red” Bean Nassau Technical Career Center.
The Nassau County School District program, which was led at the time by Director of Career Education Brent Lemond and instructor Kalvin Thompson, provides students with software development training using the latest technologies. The program’s advisory board includes local business partners, such as feature [23], Wells Fargo and CSX, who provide guidance on curriculum and assist with placement and other student opportunities.
As a student, Emmons demonstrated initiative and drive for learning advanced topics and applying them quickly. He also worked hard to expand his skillset beyond normal expectations. Those qualities help Emmons secure an internship at Jacksonville-based software developer feature [23], which led to a full-time software engineer position at the company.
As part of the feature [23] software engineering team, Emmons gained experience in a wide range of domains including distribution, logistics, trading, sales and more, and honed his skills with C#, SQL Server, Azure, React, Angular, and other domain-specific technologies.
“I worked on projects I enjoyed,” Emmons said. “It didn’t feel like I was working.”
After spending nearly five years with feature [23], Emmons recently stepped out on his own as a software engineering consultant. He offers a variety of services designed for both start-ups and established businesses including new product development.
“With all of the opportunities that are out there, going out on my own is the right next step for me,” Emmons said. “I find myself at my best when I am challenged to learn new domains, whether they are business or technical.”
Emmons has risen quickly in his career because he is curious, enthusiastic and has an insatiable desire to learn. He encourages others to find and pursue their passions.
“If you don’t have the initiative, work can be a grind,” Emmons said. “You owe it to yourself to make sure you’re happy and find the things that excite you.”
Kazmierski is CEO of Global Business Logistix, LLC. She founded the Jacksonville- based company in 2014 after working in the port, logistics, supply chain and transportation industries.
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in marketing and transportation/logistics, she established the company to provide project leadership in the international trade and logistics industry with a focus on workforce and economic development. Her customers include nonprofits and educational institutions.
“I love what I do – transportation and logistics feeds my soul,” said Kazmierski, who was named JAX Chamber’s Transportation & Logistics Council’s 2022 Small Business Leader of the Year.
The industry offers dynamic, challenging and fulfilling career opportunities with a wide variety of career trajectories. Transportation focuses on the movement of people and products via road, air, rail and water. Logistics covers a broader scope of activities that facilitate the management of product movement within the supply chain.
Kazmierski earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Business Administration from the University of South Florida in Tampa, and initially managed successful multi-family communities. While working to bring bus services to one of her communities, Kazmierski became intrigued by the transportation industry.
Kazmierski spent more than three years as marketing coordinator for Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), the independent agency responsible for public transit in Jacksonville. She then spent 11 years as a community outreach manager at the Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT), Florida’s largest container port by volume and one of the nation’s top vehicle-handling ports.
Kazmierski operates Global Business Logistix as a “solopreneur,” utilizing subconsultants for special project needs. With a global-thinking focus, the consulting company helps businesses and organizations achieve the growth they desire. Global Business Logistix is known for its work with the Florida Supply Chain Summit and offers state and federal grant writing and administration. Diversifying and offering niche services has provided opportunities for the company’s success. Kazmierski to date has written and administered more than $42 million in federal and state grants that serve nearly 10,000 children in Northeast Florida afterschool, summer and food programs.
Global Business Logistix has enjoyed consistent growth over the past eight years, thanks to Kazmierski’s focus on accreditation and professional development. She
earned the internationally recognized Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) and attends numerous professional development programs.
“To keep yourself relevant, it’s essential to keep your credentials up-to-date and build on your skill set,” Kazmierski said.
Kazmierski credits her success to tenacious networking and encourages everyone to build and maintain their professional network. Her networking includes keeping in contact with former colleagues and making new connections. She frequently volunteers on behalf of industry organizations and also generously gives her time mentoring rising entrepreneurs.
“If you’re going to succeed in this industry, it is vitally important to nurture your network,” Kazmierski said. “If you don’t succeed, you haven’t done your networking well.”
As a child in Alabama, Printella Bankhead was told she couldn’t succeed.
“I was told, ‘It’s a man’s world – you can’t do it,’” Bankhead said. “I wasn’t expected to achieve anything, and I wanted to be different than that.”
Bankhead, president and founder of EBS Security, overcame obstacles to achieve success. EBS provides security services to commercial, residential and government organizations. The company also offers bodyguard services and long term and short term security services. The company currently has more than 78 employees. Bankhead was named the 2022 overall JAX Chamber Small Business Leader of the Year.
After high school graduation, Bankhead got married and relocated to Jacksonville. Five years later, she was working, going to school and raising two young daughters on her own following a divorce. Bankhead was determined to find a better way to support her family. She found her purpose in life when she took on a job as a security officer.
“There are so many opportunities in security,” Bankhead said. “I enjoy that it’s not the same daily routine.”
Bankhead began working in security full time and enrolled in Florida State College at Jacksonville, earning a degree in Criminal Justice. She was promoted to supervisor and worked for the same company for seven years. The company provided security for the church Bankhead attended.
“My pastor asked me if I had ever thought of starting my own security company,” she said. “He told me I would be a natural at this.”
Bankhead launched EBS in 2002. While she was knowledgeable and skilled in the security industry, Bankhead was not experienced on how to run a business. She credits the company’s growth to her involvement with the JAX Chamber, the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center (JWBC) and the Small Business Administration. As a business owner, she achieved success by working hard, leading by example and maintaining high standards, often making sacrifices to get the job done.
“You can take your business as far as you want if you have the right mindset,” Bankhead said.
EBS provides armed and unarmed security. The company has assisted at high profile events attended by politicians, athletes and celebrities, working with police and special security forces.
“Many people don’t realize security is a requirement at most events,” Bankhead said.
EBS has faced numerous challenges during the pandemic, when closures and cancelations eliminated many of the company’s contracts. Bankhead had to establish new protocols to ensure her team members were safe and able to do their jobs. Bankhead also found herself back in uniform and working onsite closely with her team. Her resilience has allowed EBS to thrive.
“You can’t always be in the office,” she said. “You may be the CEO, but it all comes down to you.”
During her career, Bankhead has received numerous honors including being named the 2015 SBA’s Minority Business Person of the Year.
The works of authors Les Brown, Zig Ziegler and Wayne Dyer have offered encouragement. Her own experiences inspired her to write a book, “Staying on Course in Business and Life.”
Bankhead has found being an entrepreneur offers many benefits including the freedom and means to care for her father during his final years.
“For me, this was the most rewarding,” she said.
Cahoy’s business, Jacksonville Strength & Athletics, LLC, was recently voted one of the best 26 gyms in Jacksonville in 2021 by Expertise.com. In less than two years, the gym is financially stable and thriving.
Originally from Wyoming, Cahoy is a retired Navy Veteran with a lifelong interest in fitness and athletics. During his 20-year Naval career, Cahoy served as a command fitness leader, running group classes and working with active duty personnel who had fallen out of fitness standards.
“I have a passion for helping people become the best versions of themselves,” Cahoy said. “I’m going to do my best to make you better.”
After Cahoy retired in 2014, he focused on education and experience to become a high level coach and trainer. He attended Keiser University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine and Fitness Technology, and an associate’s degree in Physical Therapy. While attending Keiser and after graduation, Cahoy worked at several fitness centers before deciding to open his own gym.
With all the paperwork in place, Cahoy was set to open in April 2020. Unfortunately, the opening date occurred the same week as fitness centers in Florida were shut down to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. After a six-week delay, Jacksonville Strength & Athletics opened in May 2020. It offers personal training, group classes and Olympic weightlifting. Even though gyms reopened, not everyone was ready to return.
“I knew it was going to be tough, especially during the times we are in,” Cahoy said. “I did whatever I could do to keep the doors open.”
Cahoy took on a full-time job at another business, and offered coaching at his gym from 5:30-8 p.m. In time, he was able to leave the other job and focus solely on his gym. His typical work day begins before 6 a.m. and ends after 8 p.m. Despite the long hours, he enjoys coaching athletes of all ages and abilities.
“The most rewarding part of coaching is helping athletes meet and exceed their goals,” Cohoy said. “To see the look on their faces when they do is priceless.”
For those considering a fitness career, Cahoy recommends extensive education and training. Along with the ability to motivate, he believes a good coach demonstrates compassion and empathy. With numerous fitness career pathways, Cahoy advises having a unique niche. Jacksonville Strength & Athletics is the only Olympic weightlifting focused facility in Jacksonville and home to Jacksonville Weightlifting, a USA Weightlifting Club.
Cahoy’s athletes include his son, Caden, who became interested in weightlifting at age 9 after going to a cross-fit gym with his dad. Now 17, the Mandarin High School student is a member of the USA Weightlifting team and recently competed at the Junior Pan-Am Championships in Mexico. Caden Cahoy has his sights set on one day competing in the Olympics.
To learn more about Jacksonville Strength & Athletics, visit jacksonvilleweightlifting.com or follow @jaxstrengthandathletics.
The Clay County native did not graduate from high school. Shine, who has four children and eight grandchildren, became a parent as a teenager.
“At that time, school was not a priority for me,” Shine said.
In addition to raising her children, Shine worked as a cosmetologist and later as a custodian and paraprofessional at Fruit Cove Middle School. Being surrounded by students inspired Shine to do more with her life and go back to school.
“I decided that I was going to change my situation,” Shine said. “The experience of going back to school is something I would not change for anything in the world.”
For adults without a high school diploma, a GED can help in many ways. Shine enrolled first in the GED preparation course and later in the Public Safety Telecommunications training from Clay County Adult & Community Education, which provides continuing education courses for adult students within Clay and the surrounding counties. The program welcomes students of all ages.
“I was surrounded by younger people as well as older students who had been out of school,” Shine said. “We encouraged each other.”
After completing the preparation courses and training, Shine took the exams to earn her GED and Public Safety Telecommunications certifications.
“It was a process and a few times I wanted to give up,” Shine said. “However, accomplishing this goal filled me with pride and joy.”
Earning a GED and Public Safety Telecommunications certifications led Shine to a new career. A resource officer at Fruit Cove Middle School encouraged her to apply to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Department, where Shine now works as a Corrections Control Operator. In her role, she monitors inmates incarcerated at the St. Johns County correctional facility. She also trains 911 dispatch students.
“It’s a privilege to teach someone else what I have learned,” Shine said.
Generally, 911 dispatchers are the first to answer emergency calls for help. While going through the training, Shine drew from her own experience of calling 911. She recalled how the dispatcher helped calm and comfort her during a difficult time.
“When you’re answering a call, you have to think about the person on the other end of the line,” Shine said.
The Public Safety Telecommunication training focuses on interpretation and response. A dispatcher has to listen carefully to determine the needs of the caller while observing background noises and other sounds. In their role, they must remain calm, be adept at multi-tasking and have keen attention to detail.
“We learn never to judge a caller by their race or the way they speak,” Shine said.
Depending on the call, 911 dispatchers may alert deputies with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office or fire rescue.
“Our No. 1 concern is the safety of the public,” Shine said. “It takes patience and compassion to answer these calls.”
There are many financial, professional and personal reasons to get a GED. As Shine demonstrates, a GED and certification training will open doors to the future.
Today, Giselle is a business immigration attorney, speaks three languages, has authored and published a book, Beyond the H-1B, and is an Ironman tri-athlete. She is a shareholder at the Marks Gray law firm in Jacksonville. She partners with regional and global employers to help them hire and retain foreign talent. A pioneer in immigration law in our region, Giselle has been recognized by numerous professional organizations such as the American Lawyer & Corporate Counsel and the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Anyone meeting Giselle Carson, Esq. will be impressed by her many credentials and accomplishments. Giselle was born in Cuba, immigrated to Canada and then to the United States. At the age of fifteen, her friends, language, culture and home were gone forever when she escaped Cuba. Giselle was scared. Change is scary. Change is hard. But, she was determined to rebuild her life.
Today, Giselle is a business immigration attorney, speaks three languages, has authored and published a book, Beyond the H-1B, and is an Ironman tri-athlete. She is a shareholder at the Marks Gray law firm in Jacksonville. She partners with regional and global employers to help them hire and retain foreign talent. A pioneer in immigration law in our region, Giselle has been recognized by numerous professional organizations such as the American Lawyer & Corporate Counsel and the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
What isn’t obvious is that creating a notable legal career wasn’t her first career path. None of her family members are lawyers. It wasn’t on her radar. Rather, it emerged from her personal experiences. Through her journey, she discovered that practicing business immigration law would allow her to help others reach their immigration goals.
Giselle obtained a bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy. She worked as a rehabilitation department director and started to pursue a master’s degree in business administration. Despite enjoying her job, a seed had been planted. She thought about the immigration lawyers who helped her immigrate to the U.S. and obtain a green card. “I couldn’t be where I am or accomplish what I have without their help,” Giselle says.
So, she pivoted. She had big goals. Giselle continued to work while taking night classes at Florida Coastal School of Law. She drove from Palm Coast to Jacksonville to take classes twice a week. This made for long stressful weeks. After a few years, she made a firm decision to pursue schooling full time, earning a Juris Doctorate. Giselle graduated first in her class.
Giselle initially practiced litigation of medical malpractice. However, she realized that the clients she served were not been assisted by local immigration lawyers. So, she used her legal skills, personal experience and relationships to fill the gap. With the guidance of mentors and additional legal coursework, she developed a business immigration law practice within Marks Gray. Her legal work differs from the image typically projected in the media. Instead of presenting a case to a judge and jury, she helps companies understand and navigate laws centered on hiring and retaining foreign talent. Initially, it was just her. Learning all she could, as fast as she could. She kept moving forward one step at a time. Today, she has a strong immigration team of four.
She is thrilled to do what she does. Giselle says, “I have the privilege to expose Northeast Florida to the world. To help companies bring talent here. To enhance our diversity and innovation. To strengthen our country with immigrants who are hardworking, innovative trailblazers.”
For those considering the legal profession, Giselle offers encouragement and advice. Like most industries, law is enduring disruption. But, Giselle sees disruption as positive if it helps diversify the field. “We’re missing out on the huge value that diversity and inclusion brings. We need to invest and commit to diversity. Our immigration team is so strong because we value and respect our diversity of ideas, backgrounds and skills.”
Giselle’s advice is truly a call to action to begin, commit and persist. She states emphatically, “If you’re looking for a perfect world or a perfect situation, it doesn’t exist. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Take action and don’t give up until you achieve your goal.”
While she notes that one’s studies are critical, being passionate, determined and invested in one’s profession is paramount. She also encourages involvement with professional and business associations. She says, “They offer tremendous perspective, showcase trends, and generate critical relationships.”
Giselle’s passion for business immigration law is clear, as is the parallel of her roles as a lawyer and triathlete, “I help my clients overcome challenges and cross their finish line. When I begin a race, the first mile isn’t necessarily fun. But, I know the reward of the finish line is worth it.” This professional truly offers great career and personal lessons for a life of contributions and opportunities.
As a child in Alabama, Printella Bankhead was told she couldn’t succeed.
“I was told, ‘It’s a man’s world – you can’t do it,’” Bankhead said. “I wasn’t expected to achieve anything, and I wanted to be different than that.”
Bankhead, president and founder of EBS Security, overcame obstacles to achieve success. EBS provides security services to commercial, residential and government organizations. The company also offers bodyguard services and long term and short term security services. The company currently has more than 78 employees. Bankhead was named the 2022 overall JAX Chamber Small Business Leader of the Year.
After high school graduation, Bankhead got married and relocated to Jacksonville. Five years later, she was working, going to school and raising two young daughters on her own following a divorce. Bankhead was determined to find a better way to support her family. She found her purpose in life when she took on a job as a security officer.
“There are so many opportunities in security,” Bankhead said. “I enjoy that it’s not the same daily routine.”
Bankhead began working in security full time and enrolled in Florida State College at Jacksonville, earning a degree in Criminal Justice. She was promoted to supervisor and worked for the same company for seven years. The company provided security for the church Bankhead attended.
“My pastor asked me if I had ever thought of starting my own security company,” she said. “He told me I would be a natural at this.”
Bankhead launched EBS in 2002. While she was knowledgeable and skilled in the security industry, Bankhead was not experienced on how to run a business. She credits the company’s growth to her involvement with the JAX Chamber, the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center (JWBC) and the Small Business Administration. As a business owner, she achieved success by working hard, leading by example and maintaining high standards, often making sacrifices to get the job done.
“You can take your business as far as you want if you have the right mindset,” Bankhead said.
EBS provides armed and unarmed security. The company has assisted at high profile events attended by politicians, athletes and celebrities, working with police and special security forces.
“Many people don’t realize security is a requirement at most events,” Bankhead said.
EBS has faced numerous challenges during the pandemic, when closures and cancelations eliminated many of the company’s contracts. Bankhead had to establish new protocols to ensure her team members were safe and able to do their jobs. Bankhead also found herself back in uniform and working onsite closely with her team. Her resilience has allowed EBS to thrive.
“You can’t always be in the office,” she said. “You may be the CEO, but it all comes down to you.”
During her career, Bankhead has received numerous honors including being named the 2015 SBA’s Minority Business Person of the Year.
The works of authors Les Brown, Zig Ziegler and Wayne Dyer have offered encouragement. Her own experiences inspired her to write a book, “Staying on Course in Business and Life.”
Bankhead has found being an entrepreneur offers many benefits including the freedom and means to care for her father during his final years.
“For me, this was the most rewarding,” she said.
Since 2001, Ceaser has worked for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, a dynamic and respected real estate company with more than 500 real estate professionals in Northeast Florida. Ceaser joined the company in 2001 as a human resources and accounting administrator and was promoted in 2021 to Human Resources Manager. In 2024, Ceaser transitioned into a new role in Accounting after Human Resources relocated to the firm’s parent company.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity and I believe you should never give up,” Ceaser said. “A new avenue could lead to a dream job that you hadn’t anticipated.”
Ceaser is involved with processing escrow binders, initiating and confirming wire activity and managing employee expense reports. A self-described multi-tasker, she is organized, enjoys following policies and procedures, and has strong communications skills. Ceaser is eager to assist with any project and not afraid to take on any task. She is a natural motivator.
“The best part of my job is the positive environment, working with a great team, learning new systems and adapting to change,” Ceaser said. “Change equals growth.”
Her interest in Human Resources emerged while attending college. Ceaser initially thought about pursuing a career as a social worker. A mentor encouraged her to consider human resources, recognizing the impact and benefit her passion and skills would have on a company.
“It’s our unique skills that set us apart – our passion, empathy and being a go-getter,” Ceaser said.
Ceaser earned a Master of Business Administration degree in Human Resources Management from Columbia Southern University and a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University.
At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty, her workdays revolve around a “work family that I love,” supporting the company’s Realtors and clients, and her dedication to complete every task efficiently and successfully. Ceaser always begins her workday by inspiring high morale with her colleagues.
“I believe in keeping it positive and encouraging everyone to have a great day,” Ceaser said.
Technology is driving today’s real estate industry. Ceaser believes it has contributed to positive changes including the ability to conduct business remotely, increased marketing on social media channels and enhanced customer service.
Ceaser also leads the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council. She earned a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate from the University of South Florida. She is a 2024 Jacksonville magazine People With Heart recipient.
“I’m motivated by our company’s great leadership team and I’ve grown so much working for strong leaders in our company,” Ceaser said. “It’s important to align with a company whose mission, vision and culture resonates with you.”
Ceaser also credits her husband, Thomas, and her strong faith for providing tremendous support in her career pathway journey.
For those exploring careers, Ceaser recommends doing industry research, networking with mentors, gaining experience through a degree or certification program and joining local industry organizations. Ceaser is a member of the Society of Human Resources of Jacksonville (SHRM Jacksonville) and the Florida Diversity Council (Jacksonville Chapter).
“Most importantly, never give up,” Ceaser said. “Always do your best.”
An industry leader with more than 20 years of experience, Lindenmoyer supports corporations in successfully managing their relocation programs. Prior to her role in corporate relocation, Lindenmoyer worked in both residential and commercial real estate.
"There are abundant opportunities in both residential and commercial real estate," said Lindenmoyer. "The career pathway you choose is a personal choice based on what you find most interesting."
Despite the pandemic, Northeast Florida's real estate industry is thriving. The Jacksonville region's job growth in 2020 and the corporate relocation momentum are keeping both residential and commercial real estate brokers busy.
Selling residential real estate requires a passion for people as agents facilitate the home buying process between sellers and buyers. Commercial agents are similar to residential agents, but they sell or lease properties to businesses. Since they work with data like gross rent multipliers, capitalization rates and internal rates of return, commercial agents need to have an analytical understanding of business and finance.
Residential Realtors are independent contractors and have the advantage of determining how much and when they work. However, they often work evenings and weekends to meet customer needs.
"Realtors have to be flexible and willing to adjust as the market demands," Lindenmoyer said.
In Florida, working in real estate requires a Florida real estate license. The Real Estate Sales Associate license, issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, is the same for those who want to work in residential real estate or commercial real estate.
To obtain a license, individuals must complete the state-approved sales associate pre-license course and pass the course exam. The course focuses on real estate laws, principles and practice, and real estate math. The 63-hour course is offered online, in a classroom at a real estate school or at Florida Realtor associations.
After passing the course exam, the next step is to take the Florida licensing exam. This test has two sections covering both state and national requirements. Those who pass earn their license and begin working once they affiliate with a licensed brokerage.
"Additional training is very important when an individual begins working with a licensed real estate company, " said Lindenmoyer. "Licensees should align with a company that offers a formal training program designed to give new agents the support they need to succeed."
Those interested in pursuing a real estate career should take into consideration there are fees for taking the class exam and license. Since agents work on commission, meaning they make a percentage of the sales price of real estate property in the transaction, Lindenmoyer recommends new Realtors be prepared to go about six months without making any income. However, there aren't any time limits to how much money top producing agents can make.
"The top successful Realtors don't look at their customers as a transaction," said Lindenmoyer. "They recognize that they are a trusted resource for their customer."
While in college, Riley tended bar until hours were reduced due to COVID. At that time, he began exploring a career pathway in real estate, as his girlfriend had achieved much success since 2017. Initially, Riley was unsure about pivoting into real estate, despite the overwhelmingly strong market in Northeast Florida, low interest rates spurring buyer demand, and jobs that hold during a pandemic. However, his mind was changed after seeing the earning potential in both selling and investing in real estate. He said, "I worried about the future and retirement until learning about the investing side."
Riley achieved his real estate license in January 2020. Initially, it was overwhelming on where and how to begin. He was drawn to Momentum Realty, which became a brokerage, in 2020 due to the structure and mentoring provided. Quarterly master classes on topics such as winning multiple offers and providing quality customer service through genuine, organic relationships provided great insight.
During the pandemic, he and a partner began isolating a strategy to build a team, The Allied Group, at Momentum. Riley credits his business degree with helping him strategically approach this career transition, saying, "Real Estate is 100 percent a business. To be profitable, you must track numbers to avoid surprises."
For those considering a real estate career, Riley recommends diving into the industry full time to commit to learning the industry and establishing a solid reputation. He indicates that having income to sustain oneself for six months to one year is preferable, as agents work on commission. Someone entering the industry needs time to build clients, close deals, and become profitable. Joining a team and finding a good mentor are primary ways to successfully break into the industry.
With a hot real estate market and low inventory, it's critical to have a competitive edge. Riley stresses that the agent must be the "leveling force" when negotiating deals on what is likely his client's most significant investment. He also encourages individuals to read several books to establish a mindset that is critical to success in the industry:
Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
Wealth Can't Wait by David Osborn
Richest Man in Babylon by George Clason
Tribe of Millionaires by Mike McCarthy and Pat Hiban
If you enjoy providing fantastic customer service, a career in Northeast Florida real estate is a viable option. Riley reiterates that multiple touch points with customers are critical. "Customer service and responsiveness is important. There have been multiple situations where other sellers cancelled their agreements with other agents so they could list with us," he said.
Ultimately, Riley Day's real estate career pathway with The Allied Group at Momentum is offering noteworthy opportunities right here in Northeast Florida.
Chef Grigsby, Professor of Culinary Management at Florida State College at Jacksonville, is a recipient of the 2021 Postsecondary Educator of the Year Award from the Center for the Advancement of Food Service Education. However, before reaching this point professionally, he learned about the industry while watching television chefs as a child.
After the steel mill crash in Pennsylvania, Chef Grigsby left Pittsburgh and, at his brother’s urging, relocated to Palm Beach where he began a newly created 3-year apprenticeship at The Breakers, a luxury resort hotel. This foundational experience led to the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta and other exclusive clubs and hotels.
At FSCJ, Chef Grigsby is now part of a 5-person instruction and operational team offering a Culinary Management associate degree program, one of 2 state college programs of twelve possible in the state to receive an exemplary rating because of full compliance. The program was accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission through 2026. FSCJ also offers a Culinary Arts Technical Certificate. Students learn menu and marketing, food production, nutrition, and hospitality management.
Students meet learning objectives via different labs. For example, Chef ensures plenty of onions are available to practice knife skills. Students execute skills through a simulated restaurant environment, Café Frisch, created through a financial gift by Holocaust Survivor and Jacksonville resident, Harry Frisch, founder of Beaver Street Fisheries. Proper plating, receiving customer feedback, and restaurant operations are imperative aspects of the curriculum. Chef said, “You can’t learn computer programming without a computer. You can’t learn all aspects of culinary arts without a restaurant.”
FSCJ students have access to an Aquaponics lab and an organic garden featuring various fruits and herbs, speaking to the Chef’s commitment to using seasonal fresh foods. He said, “When the door at Whole Foods opens up and you smell strawberries, that’s when you use strawberries.” This concept was reinforced during his 4-restaurant stage in FSCJ’s sister city of Nantes, France, where he learned more about various cooking techniques and grew accustomed to 4 AM trips to market and to local rabbit and goat farms to source daily ingredients.
While Chef prefers to cook sans-recipe, some roles in the profession involve distinct precision--pastry chefs who cannot deviate from a recipe or risk failure, or a hospital dietician who must adhere to careful guidelines to maintain a patient’s health. Students can use the AS program as a foundation for a nutrition degree to create menus for athletes or individuals with special dietary needs. They also learn important concepts about trends, projections, interpersonal skills, and how food brings people together. “Conflict resolution begins at the table,” Chef stated.
Culinary Arts graduates are making their careers in the region, at Restaurant Orsay, Black Sheep Restaurant, and One Ocean for example. “I always walk past the kitchen to check for former students,” Chef said.
Adriana Farrell, Culinary Arts 2020 Graduate, is excited about her career pathway. She said, “The program revolves around teaching students the different skills needed for every position in a restaurant, from a waiter to a chef. When I first walked into Café Frisch, I opened the door to a successful future. FSCJ’s Culinary Program has helped turn myself into the chef I once dreamed of becoming.“
The program involves completion of two internships. Opportunities range from international, national, and regional internship opportunities. Chef recommends that students “Try two completely different internships. Determine what you want but don’t be disappointed with where you may go. Travel is essential to learn more about types of food and various preparations.”
To watch FSCJ students share their internship experiences, click:
https://www.fscj.edu/academics/areas-of-study/culinary-arts-hospitality/culinary-management-as
Kearra was determined to study Business Administration with a concentration in Communications in college. However, after speaking with an admissions counselor at Keiser University, her career pathways plans quickly changed. The counselor suggested that, because of her personality, she may wish to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management. Kearra then spoke with an instructor. After several days of additional consideration, she opted for Hospitality Management. Of this change, Kearra says, "It took me on a much better path--better suited to me. I've met so many wonderful people and have had great experiences."
At Keiser, Kearra further explored the hospitality industry via an internship at the Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk. There, she was immersed in a new department each week. Unbeknownst to her, this experience would provide excellent cross-training for her future job. When her internship led to time spent in the Accounting Department, she was hooked. "I thought I would gravitate toward sales, but I love the numbers in accounting and seeing how all parts of the hotel work together."
Once her internship concluded, Kearra and a classmate chose to stay at the Southbank Hotel to work in the Banquet Department. She saw the inner-workings of back of the house operations and got to know many people individually. Then, a part-time opportunity opened in the Accounting Department which gradually led to a full-time position. Today, Kearra is an Accounts Payable Specialist.
Kearra graduated with an Associate of Science in Hospitality Management from Keiser University in 2018. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management.
Kearra emphasizes that working in a hotel involves much more than cleaning a room and providing a check in key. Being people-friendly, adaptable and impeccably organized is critical. Her specialty involves accounting and the ability to navigate the multiple internal computer systems used by the Southbank Hotel. Recalling where specific information is housed is also essential.
"I thought I was organized, but I found a better way to prioritize and track my work." One of her adaptations includes using a daily planner. As a result, month end reports due to corporate and pending vendor bills are all completed and processed timely. Kearra says, "It's important to find something you enjoy. You're crunching numbers but you're also maintaining relationships with vendors, colleagues and individuals at the corporate level."
Kearra's childhood experiences afforded her many opportunities to find a home in the world. Now, she is centered in Jacksonville and has found another home in the hospitality industry. She notes, "My experiences with travel and being part of different cultures definitely help me in my career today."
After high school, Sarah moved to Florida to attend Flagler College and obtain a BS in Sport Management. She was thrilled to learn that a personal passion of hers translated into a degree program. At Flagler College, she studied sports management and promotion, sport finance and law, as well as facility and event management.
While in her junior year, Sarah began an internship with the Jacksonville Jaguars, one of only 32 National Football League franchises. She worked game days and enjoyed the camaraderie, spontaneity and challenge of the various tasks involved. Sarah was exposed to a variety of volunteer activities while in college, but this environment was a favorite.
As a college senior, Sarah took a semester long internship in the spring with the Washington Redskins, her original “home town” team. This resume-builder, combined with her previous Jaguars internship experience, positioned her to return to Jacksonville and seek full time employment with the Jaguars after graduating from Flagler College in April 2011. Although her first role with the team was still considered an internship, she “put in her time” which led to a position in the ticket office.
Since that time, Sarah’s career has prospered with the team and she is now the Jaguars Director of Fan Experience. She is responsible for ensuring all fans are prepared to come to the stadium, training staff on how to create a stellar game day experience, creating policy, and communicating with season ticket holders. Now in her 13th season with the Jaguars, Sarah emphasizes that there is no typical workday. Working at the stadium requires knowledge of multiple operational facets as well as who to go to for efficient answers.
“We wear many hats in the Fan Experience Department,” said Sarah. “Recently, that meant I helped roll out the field tarp on game day because of rain. Whatever it takes, we’ll do.” Sarah said.
The most rewarding aspect of her role is the relationships she creates, from internal staff to front-line team members to the fans. That fun, dynamic energy is what keeps her staff returning and fans excited about each new football season.
“You get out what you put in,” said Sarah. “I put my heart and soul into it. I perform at my highest level and stick out tough situations. It may not always be easy, but it will be worth it.”
Working in the Sports and Recreation pathway offers many options. Sarah emphasized that at the Jaguars there are roles in ticket operations and sales, marketing, finance, IT, corporate sponsorship, events, public relations, recruiting, as well as the legal team and the Jaguars Foundation.
For more information, check out: https://www.jaguars.com/careers.
“I didn’t know what philanthropy was when I was in high school and college, but opportunities aligned for it to happen,” Oliver said.
Oliver joined The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida as President in July 2023. Prior to coming to Northeast Florida, he served in a similar position as the President and CEO of The Community Foundation of Greater Flint (Michigan) for nine years.
Both foundations have a mission of stimulating philanthropy to build a better community. The Jacksonville foundation serves Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. Oliver oversees investments, budgets, grant-making and fundraising. He serves as a bridge, fostering partnerships between individuals and community organizations.
“I lead our organization by engaging people in philanthropy through their time, talent, treasure, and ties, to leverage making the community a better place,” Oliver said.
A Michigan native, Oliver graduated from Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and a minor in art history. As a student, he discovered his talent for simplifying and communicating complex messages. Oliver dreamed of working for an advertising agency or a newspaper, but after graduation couldn’t find a job in those fields. He began his professional career in education, and spent 10 years as an associate administrator at Mott Community College in Flint.
“I used those same skills to make it easy for others to understand complex issues and be the best I could be in my role,” Oliver said.
He gained many new skills while working in education including serving as an instructor and grant writing for workforce-related programs. Oliver joined the Community Foundation of Greater Flint as vice president of community impact and was named president and CEO in 2014. He played a pivotal role leading his community through a public health crisis involving contaminated drinking water. During his time at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Oliver gained greater understanding of the management of philanthropy and how connections and opportunities converge to move forward innovation. Community leadership and partnerships continue to be a key focus of his current position in Jacksonville.
For those interested in pursuing a career in philanthropy, relationship building and emotional intelligence are essential skills. Hiring managers seek out the individuals they want to work with daily. “Know who you are and what you bring to the table,” Oliver said. “Your ability to relate is going to be the differentiator.”
As a college student, Oliver’s sociology and art history classes offered insight and exploration of meeting people’s needs and resolving challenges. “They provide an amazing opportunity to think about how things were done and uniquely positions you to do this work,” Oliver said.
Diversifying interests and experiences offer many benefits to an individual’s career path. “Be open to life’s journey and be thoughtful where you invest your time,” Oliver said.
While serving as a student volunteer at the Boys & Girls Club of North Central Florida, Roby was talking with a six-year-old in the program. When Roby shared she was a University of Florida student, the young girl did not believe her and asked Roby to prove it. “I didn’t think brown people went to college,” the girl said.
“It broke me when she said that,” said Roby. “UF was located just a mile away and she thought it was out of her reach. It made me realize that I wanted to be an advocate, fight for single parents and children in poverty, and impact children and the ecosystem.”
Roby joined Episcopal Children’s Services in January 2024. One of the largest youth services nonprofits in Florida, ECS helps nearly 30,000 underserved children in 14 counties in northeast and central Florida. The program offers holistic family services and builds a strong foundation for educational success. In her role, Roby leads ECS’ strategic vision and day-to-day operations, collaborating with the ECS team to craft innovative strategies to break generational cycles.
“By exposing kids to a safe, loving environment, and giving parents the tools they need, we are setting them up for success,” Roby said. “This approach can change the landscape of our community.”
Prior to joining ECS, Roby led center operations in Florida for Pace Center for Girls’ national office. She previously served as executive director of Pace Center for Girls Alachua. She began her career at the Boys & Girls Club where she interned. Roby appreciates the power of internships and volunteering to support career development, as well as the importance of mentors and mentoring, especially for women.
“I’m grateful for the mentors I’ve had,” Roby said. “I love to share my experiences with others.”
During her career, Roby has experienced numerous success stories including one that has gone full circle. The young girl at the Boys & Girls Club followed Roby to Pace and went on to college. Now a single mom, she has requested ECS services for her son.
“She wants him to have a better life with opportunities to thrive,” Roby said.
A first-generation American, Roby grew up attending private school in New York. When her parents divorced, she moved to Orlando with her mother and experienced poverty.
“I never lose sight of these experiences,” Roby said. “I understand the population I serve and the challenges they face.”
Roby earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida, and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida. Her dissertation explored “Triumph over Trauma.”
“With persistence and resilience, many people have used their trauma as a catalyst for success,” Roby said.
Roby is known for her leadership philosophy, as shared in her TedxUF talk, which emphasizes “The Power of Leading with Love.” She believes her mission is to spread love through her work by ‘showing up’ for the children, families and staff she serves. As a leader, Roby is committed to fostering positive, inclusive and compassionate work environments and relationships.
“I believe it’s important to do something that’s meaningful to you,” Roby said. “It’s about taking care of people and making sure they feel valued.”
Tanya Ramos-Puig is a purpose-driven leader. She is grateful for the educational and career support she received as a youth and young adult. The impact those experiences had on her life motivated her to pursue a leadership career as a social impact executive in the nonprofit sector.
“My experiences were transformational and led me to pursue opportunities that would enable me to leave the world better than I found it,” said Ramos-Puig. “It was important to me to live a life of purpose. I wanted to make a difference in the lives others.”
Ramos-Puig is Chief Executive Officer of The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF), a Jacksonville nonprofit organization founded in 1997 by Ed Burr in honor of his late wife. The foundation develops and delivers MBF Prevention Education Programs, which educate and empower youth, equipping them with strategies to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to various challenges such as bullying, online dangers, child abuse, and exploitation/trafficking.
Ramos-Puig leads the foundation’s day-to-day operations, working alongside the MBF team, the board, and supporters to optimize the foundation’s growth and sustainability while fulfilling the foundation’s mission of protecting children. MBF has served close to 16 million youth in Florida, across the nation and around the globe through MBF Prevention Education Programs. Yet, there are many more to reach.
“It takes a group of passionate and committed individuals to fuel our work,” Ramos-Puig said. “The work we are doing is transformational and helps save lives.”
Prior to joining MBF in 2022, Ramos-Puig spent nearly 30 years working for nonprofits to improving educational opportunities and life outcomes for youth in under-resourced communities. She served as President at The Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation, the philanthropic arm of The Latin Recording Academy®. As head of the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation, Ramos-Puig provided educational and outreach programs for the Latin music community.
“Working in the nonprofit sector has provided me with a way to invest in and support the growth, development and success of future leaders. I have learned the biggest equalizer is access to a quality education,” Ramos-Puig said.
During her career, Ramos-Puig has held numerous leadership roles – including CEO at Pencils of Promise, CRO at Education Pioneers and The Children's Aid Society. She is an alumna of Coro New York Leadership Center and INROADS and has served as an Adjunct Professor at LaGuardia Community College in New York City. Ramos-Puig believes networking and mentorship contributes to career success.
“Every job and opportunity that I have secured over the course of my career is a result of leveraging my network,” Ramos-Puig said. “I am grateful that my mentors invested in me, opened doors of opportunity for me and raised my name in rooms that I had yet to walk into.”
A life-long learner, Ramos-Puig credits her parents, who didn’t attend college, for making the sacrifices to ensure that their children did. She earned a bachelor’s degree from New York University, a master’s degree from The New School, where she received a Jacob Kaplan Fellowship, and graduated from the Executive-Level Program at the Graduate School of Business at Columbia University’s Institute for Not-for-Profit Management.
“I believe access to a quality education enabled me to thrive both personally and professionally,” Ramos-Puig said.
For those interested in pursuing a nonprofit leadership career, Ramos-Puig believes it is vital to lead with integrity, humility and gratitude. She encourages everyone to embrace technology, develop strong communication, marketing and leadership skills. Most importantly, pursue opportunities that light you up and make you feel complete. For Ramos-Puig, her true north revolves around educational equity and a commitment to opening pathways to more opportunities.
“I don’t want to be remembered for my accomplishments as so many contributed to who I am today. I believe true success is empowering others to achieve their full potential. I just want to pay it forward,” Ramos-Puig said.
“I was entranced by the deep, emotional connection between the artist and the audience,” said President and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony, Steven Libman.
The Jacksonville Symphony, with a budget of $13.5 million, serves over 113,000 people each season through performances in Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts and through its Community Engagement programs. The Symphony is the largest arts organization in Northeast Florida, the largest symphony orchestra in Florida and is vital to Jacksonville’s economic development. Nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reports arts and cultural economic activity accounted for 4.3 percent of GDP, or $1.10 trillion, in 2022.
Libman is responsible for the financial management, fundraising, marketing and production functions for the Jacksonville Symphony and partners with the Music Director Courtney Lewis on long range planning and programming. Libman is nationally recognized for developing an entrepreneurial and creative approach to strategic planning, fundraising, programming, branding, marketing initiatives, institutional growth and problem solving.
While in college, Libman majored in economics management and administration. He earned a bachelor’s degree in performing arts management from Rhode Island College.
“I was fortunate that I knew what I wanted to do as a career at a young age,” said Libman. “It’s also good to know what you’re good at and where you excel.”
Libman’s successful career as an arts executive has led to positions throughout the country. He started as Managing Director of the Rev Theatre Company (formerly the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival) and the Fulton Opera House before being named Managing Director of the Pittsburgh Ballet, where he spent 17 years. Libman became Managing Director of the La Jolla Playhouse, President/CEO of the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Indiana, and Chief Advancement Officer for the Atlanta Ballet.
Over the years, Libman has played a key role connecting millions of people to artists. Highlights include reaching new audiences by producing ballets set to the music of Sting, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen and others at the Pittsburgh Ballet. The Tony Award-winning musical “Jersey Boys” was created at La Jolla Playhouse and during Libman’s tenure he was part of the team that successfully transferred the production to Broadway.
Libman joined the Jacksonville Symphony in January 2020 and navigated the Symphony through the COVID-19 pandemic during his first year. The Jacksonville Symphony was one of only 10 orchestras in America that performed in their hall during the 2020/21 Season.
Libman recognizes the importance of working with a great leadership team and committed staff. For more than two years, Libman and his team have been planning the Symphony’s 75th Anniversary Season, which opens on September 21, 2024, with Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 2. The season also will include more than 40 guest artists, the world premiere of three new works, a Jimmy Buffett tribute and visits from Harry Potter and Han Solo.
For those interested in a successful arts management career, Libman recommends having a deep knowledge of several art forms, as well as understanding of the production function. Strong writing and speaking skills are essential. It is also vital to have financial management, marketing and fundraising skills.
“You should be a consumer of information,” Libman said. “Are you insanely curious about the world and what’s happening around you?”
Most of all, Libman says, “It’s important to have a good time, be joyful and maintain a sense of humor.”
Crawford is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher - Commercial Art at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology, a public magnet career and college preparatory high school in Jacksonville.
A Jacksonville native, Crawford graduated from Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology in 2011 and from Flagler College with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design in 2015. After graduation, she moved to Orlando for her first professional job but returned to Jacksonville after a year. Crawford spent more than five years working in the design industry in a variety of environments including agency and business settings. She began teaching at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology in September 2020.
“I always thought I would end up working in education although I didn’t think it would happen this early in my career – but I love it,” Crawford said.
Crawford teaches Commercial Art Technology in the Communications Academy, preparing students for careers in the creative industry after high school or college. The Communications Academy also offers programs in Television Production and Digital Information Technology/IT.
A self-described “art kid,” Crawford had a passion for art and knew early on she wanted to study design. Her transition to teaching occurred in part because she maintained relationships with many of her former teachers.
“I had many key educators – in elementary, high school and college,” Crawford said. “They all left an impression on me. I knew one day I would love to emulate that energy in a classroom setting.”
One of her mentors is Michael Fuller, now retired but who had been Crawford’s commercial art teacher at the Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology. Fuller contacted Crawford when a teaching vacancy became available.
“I wasn’t looking for a change, but when it was put in front of me, I knew I needed to jump at the opportunity,” Crawford said.
As an educator, Crawford draws on her professional design experience combined with her passion for creative problem solving. For the transition to teaching, Crawford earned her teaching certificate and Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop certifications. Crawford enjoys working with students.
“Being an educator isn’t just showing up to a classroom,” Crawford said. “I’m excited to help launch students into their careers.”
Students at the Academy earn industry certifications and regularly receive on-the-job training through internships. Crawford’s students work on a variety of real-world projects. In April, they will design marketing materials to promote the Healing Hearts Project’s fun run. This project also provides an opportunity for the academy to support a non-profit organization.
“Skills with Adobe products are guaranteed to give a leg up when pursuing a career at any point in time because of the early exposure that was provided,” said student Dante Pierre. “When you're exposed early to these kinds of professional programs, you develop a skillset that never truly becomes obsolete.”
Many of Crawford’s students value the Academy’s programs.
“I believe this Academy is helping my school life improve overall,” said student Danielle Wilson. “I'm learning things about websites, programs, editing and design, and I'm learning concepts that allow my school work to look nicer and my creativity to flow.”
The longtime artist and entertainer has worked in the arts for several years as a performer and a facilitator. Cruz is Owner and Managing Partner of LPT Salsa, LLC, a 10-piece salsa music orchestra, and the Director of Development for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville. which enriches the arts through its support to cultural organizations, individual artists and the Public Art Program. He also contributes to numerous publications as a freelance writer.
“I always had an attraction for the arts but I never thought it would be my career path until my later high school years,” said Cruz, who moved to Jacksonville from South Florida in 2011.
Cruz recognized his interest in creative writing after winning a poetry writing contest as a middle school student. His love for performing emerged as a teenager and continues today. Cruz is lead vocalist for LPT, a group that performs locally as well as across the globe. One of his most memorable performances took place in a small Australian town that didn’t offer many live music performances.
“It’s very rewarding to perform in places that are absent of art and experience how important art is to that community,” Cruz said.
He is a connoisseur of all fine art forms spanning from opera to rap, poetry, romantic landscapes and neo-classical imagery. Cruz’s enthusiasm for facilitating the growth and success of artists is equally strong. As Director of Development, Cruz is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, and facilitating the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville’s fundraising needs. These include individual, foundation, and corporate sponsorships, establishing major gifts and planned giving programs, and grant-writing.
“It all comes down to the impact you can have going forward,” Cruz said.
Cruz’s career began as a Language Arts/Creative Writing teacher and evolved with a wide variety of cultural, educational and leadership positions.
“I love learning about a project and helping people turn their dreams into realistic, attainable goals,” he said.
For success, artists must possess the skills of their craft, whether it is writing, music or the visual arts. Other skills come into play including perseverance, organization and communication skills. Cruz believes an artist’s success is a result of having adaptability and humility. Rather than follow a narrow path, be multi-dimensional and learn as much as you can about everything.
“You never know when a piece of knowledge is going to open a door,” Cruz said.
An entrepreneur at heart, Cruz says his enterprising spirit has helped him navigate a career in the arts.
“You have to understand the business of art in order to make a sustainable living and have a positive economic impact on your life,” Cruz said.
Grant funding though the Cultural Council and other organizations is available. Cruz said it is vital for artists to do their research before applying and be prepared to demonstrate their capabilities in the application and reports.
Most importantly, Cruz said understand what opportunities you are willing to pursue.
“Recognize that line you won’t cross,” Cruz said. “A successful artist knows his or her values.”
“It was a real privilege to have access to the ultimate field trip destination,” said Brownlee, the George W. and Kathleen I. Gibbs director and chief executive officer of the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Brownlee leads a “phenomenal group of professionals” with a focus on the institution’s strategic vision, donor engagement and funding.
“My days are very rich and full, and I love every moment,” Brownlee said.
An art historian, curator, educator and writer, Brownlee is a graduate of Spelman College (B.A., English and Art History) and Duke University (Ph.D., Art History). While at Duke, she realized she would have to decide whether her career would lead to academia or institutions. While contemplating her future, she avoided limitations.
“One of the most impactful pieces of advice I received was to ‘cast a wide net,’” said Brownlee.
The recommendation came from Dr. Richard Powell, a mentor and her Art History professor/graduate school advisor at Duke.
“There were many opportunities and I was trying to determine what I wanted to do,” Brownlee said. “He encouraged me to apply for everything that might be of interest.”
Brownlee’s path led to The Art Institute of Chicago’s Department of Modern and Contemporary Art, where she flourished as a MacArthur Curatorial Fellow.
Prior to joining the Cummer Museum in 2020, Brownlee served as director of the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art for nearly 20 years. Her duties included engaging directly with artists and learning what drives them. At Spelman, she guided the Spelman College Curatorial Studies Program and expanded her efforts to educate the next generation of museum professionals by assuming a dual role as senior strategist for the Atlanta University Center Art History + Curatorial Studies Collective. During her tenure, she flourished as an alumna of the Getty Leadership Institute and received numerous awards including the David C. Driskell Prize in African American Art and Art History.
“The responsibilities were vastly different but extraordinarily rewarding,” Brownlee said. “I discovered that I had multiple sparks and opportunities to combine them. The experience was so rich for me.”
Other accomplishments, which are detailed on her Wikipedia page, include writing four books on artists.
“I did not intend to be an author, yet one experience built upon another,” Brownlee said. “There were unbelievable, intoxicating opportunities that allowed me to evolve as a writer and editor.”
Brownlee’s work has historically focused on the promotion of female African-American artists. Mentors, including Dr. Powell, Dr. Driskell and her kindergarten teacher, Margarette Peterson, have guided her career.
Brownlee’s success reflects her spirit of collaboration and effective written and verbal communication skills. Critical thinking – being able to synthesize ideas and break them into manageable parts – is vital to achieve goals.
A self-described lifelong learner, taking an improvisational class is on Brownlee’s future wish list.
“In an improv class, you explore the skills to be effective, think outside of the typical box and deliver,” Brownlee said. “I would love to have those skills in my arsenal.”
Brownlee’s love of learning, unique talents and abilities, and her inclusive approach to teamwork have allowed her to create and enjoy a rewarding career pathway in the Arts.
“I’m fortunate that I can incorporate my passion and lifestyle into my work,” said Parenteau, owner of Renee Parenteau Photography in Springfield. “I love getting to know people and helping them bring out their best so that they feel and look great for the photo.”
Parenteau opened the studio when she moved to Jacksonville in 2007.
She was recognized as the JAX Chamber Downtown Council’s Small Business Leader of the Year in 2016 and as a Woman of Influence by the Jacksonville Business Journal in 2014.
Fluent in Spanish, French and English, her services include corporate photography, commercial shoots, special events, family photos and individual headshots. Parenteau’s offerings include a photo package which gives her clients the "celebrity experience" with professional makeup and wardrobe changes.
“My niche is the celebrity experience,” Parenteau said. “Every detail – makeup, hair, lighting and clothing – is important in a picture.”
During her career, Parenteau has traveled the world working with numerous celebrities including Kenny Chesney, John Travolta, Roberta Flack and Billy Horschel. Before relocating to Jacksonville, she also served clients in Los Angeles in business, entertainment, advertising and professional sports.
“My career has given me a great opportunity to know so many amazing people,” Parenteau said.
Growing up in Oregon and California, Parenteau attended the Fashion Institute in Portland after high school. After visiting a makeup studio located next door to the Fashion Institute, Parenteau knew that she wanted to work professionally as a makeup artist. Parenteau relocated to Seattle and enrolled in cosmetology school and began working with the Seattle Opera doing theater makeup. She went to work at a salon where the owner’s husband was a photographer and gained experience doing makeup for photo shoots. A move to Los Angeles followed where she enjoyed success working as a makeup artist in the advertising industry.
“A makeup artist is very valued as part of the production team,” Parenteau said.
Working side-by-side with many talented photographers sparked Parenteau’s interest in the business of photography. She studied photography at Escuela de Fotografia in Madrid, Spain, shifting her career focus prior to moving to Jacksonville.
“It was important to me to diversify my skills,” Parenteau said.
For those interested in a photography career, Parenteau recommends a formal education as well as working alongside a photographer whose work they admire. Be aware of current trends, such as video and AI, be prepared to pivot and understand how to run a business. A lifelong entrepreneur, Parenteau doesn’t have employees and does all of the work herself – prepping for shoots, processing photos, answering inquires, booking, bookkeeping and marketing.
“It’s important to produce great photos, but you also need to know how to price, bill and market your services,” Parenteau said. "Use social media platforms to promote your business and also to learn what other creative businesses are doing. Most importantly, know your value. Always keep your value by charging a competitive rate or coming to an agreement in trade of equal or greater value than your fee.”
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