| Having worked with Workforce Advantage Academy students during the 2012-2013 school year, Ebony Whitby, a senior recovery agent at Orlando Utilities Commission, had a clear understanding about students wanted for their final session: the opportunity to talk with a variety of professionals about how they succeed and tips for future success.
Cheryl Smith, with Cox Media Group, owner of WFTV, described the excitement of working behind the scenes at a television station and echoed Woody’s thoughts about how decisions made at 18 can follow you for a life time. She called it a fun industry but a tough one. Rafael Suazo, in the OUC bad debt and bankruptcy department, talked about his path to success and the challenges of collecting money that’s owed to a corporation. Whitby closed the session with a summary and encouraged students to think about their choices during the summer break, make good ones and be ready to come back as seniors on the path to success. |
Erika Slater Carlock, a Walgreens pharmacist, kicked off the program, sharing with students what a pharmacist does in addition to dispensing medications in a retail store, such as conferring with physicians on the best dosing and selection of a medication. She also explained what it takes to become a pharmacist and the importance of a math, science and technology background before six years of college and how valued pharmacists are in the delivery of care.
Alicia Matheson, president of Matheson Global Consulting, discussed with students the advantages and disadvantages of owning a business, such as being able to set your own hours, but they will likely be long. She talked about the importance of planning research, creating a competitive advantage and networking.
Officer Larry Grice, a drug enforcement officer with the Orlando Police Department, shared with students how he became an officer, the amount of education needed and the enjoyment of doing something different every day.
Carlos Woody, OUC general counsel, discussed with students his path to a legal career and said the keys to success in succeeding in life is hard work, reading, writing and oral communication. He also cautioned that the decisions students make today can influence the options they will have later in life, explaining that a drug conviction will eliminate the possibility of becoming a lawyer. Woody called being an attorney an exciting career, with the best part being helping people find solutions to problems.
Computer engineer James Thomas, CEO of App Data Systems, discussed with students two types of computer engineering: infrastructure management, keeping servers and networks operating, and application development. He advised students to reach out to someone already in the field for help and then to listen to that person.
Technical Sgt. Rita M. Vitela, a U.S. Air Force Recruiter, described the types of jobs available in the military, requirements and education benefits.
 Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, State Representatives Victor Torres Jr. and Tom Goodson, and Orange County School Board Member Rick Roach paid a visit to the school to learn more about the innovative career academy and discuss how it can expand to serve more students. Rep. Randy Bracy, WAA’s business development director, joined the discussion.
“This is an opportunity for students to have options for a career,” Roach said. “This is a model that should be replicated in the state.” The state elected officials discussed with school leaders enrollment, recruitment challenges, and the importance of securing and maintaining business partnerships.
“This is a critical time for you,” Torres told students. “Everything is education. If you want to make good money and have a nice lifestyle, you have to have an education. “ |
Rep. Torres stayed and talked with students in a senior English class. He asked the young people about the school, what they are learning and how their experience at Workforce Advantage Academy differs from their original high school. Then he talked about his background and how he became a legislator.
In a separate event, school leaders met with Gov. Rick Scott at the Frito Lay plant in Orlando, as part of the governor’s “Building Up Florida Manufacturing Victory Tour.” The event also gave school leaders an opportunity to meet with the plant’s leadership and discuss possible student employment opportunities.
Several WAA students are working at Premier Cinema at Fashion Square Mall. They clean up the theaters after moviegoers leave, take tickets, sell snacks and do whatever is necessary to create a pleasant guest experience.
“The best part is the popcorn,” said senior Travis Shelton, who first honed his customer-service skills at Universal Orlando but now works at the cinema. Shelton plans to study auto mechanics at Mid Florida Tech after graduation.
WAA English teacher Derek Cavilla graduated May 3 from the University of Central Florida (UCF) with a master’s of education in teacher leadership with a specialization in gifted education. He earned a 4.0 grade point average and will begin his doctor of education degree in gifted education in August at UCF.
Workforce Academy will hold open houses for prospective students every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 7 p.m., starting June 18.
Students, faculty and staff traveled to Tallahassee to observe government in action and visit Florida State University. Rep. Randy Bracy invited the students to his office, where they had a chance to look around, take photos and see how legislators work together on bills. Then a tour guide described 
how Tallahassee become the state seat and took the students to the top of the capital building and to see the House chamber, while they observed a meeting taking place.
The tour at Florida State University began in the stadium, where guides talked about classes and the major fields of study at the school. The WAA guests then visited the Student Union and learned more about the university’s long heritage and its traditions.
Anite Sergil called it a unique experience, adding that she particularly enjoyed the visit to the state capital and to Florida State University, during her first trip to the city.
Alonzo Coleman added that “it was fun. I liked FSU. It was everything I expected.”
Workforce Advantage Academy celebrated Field Days, an annual springtime tradition, during which student participate in a variety of athletic and recreational activities at the school and nearby Langford Park. Students and staff had a fun time.
Students seemed to thoroughly enjoy the delicious food, loud music, photo booth, decorations and ambiance of the Country Club of Orlando during the 2013 prom.
Jasmin Trabinski was elected Prom Queen and Gerald Finch Prom King.
Dozens of students and staff donated blood earlier this month, adding to the school’s scholarship fund. OneBlood donates a set amount for each pint collected.
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