Debunking myths about Career Academies
Q: Aren’t Career Academies just like the old vocational/technical programs?
A: Absolutely not. Career Academies combine rigorous academic courses with relevant industry practices that lead to college credit and industry certifications... this is definitely not your father’s technical education. Students have opportunities for internships, job shadowing, targeted field trips, industry mentors, professional certifications and more... all within a small learning community with a consistent cohort of teachers and peers.
Q: If I study in a Career Academy, doesn’t that limit my opportunity to attend college?
A: It’s just the opposite. Students in Career Academies graduate from high school and enroll in college at a higher rate than other students. Most Career Academies offer Dual Enrollment which allows students to earn college credit while taking courses on their high school campus! The combination of academics and marketable skills provides a strong basis for additional post-secondary studies.
Q: Are Career Academies focused on industries where you don’t have a chance to get a great job and make a lot of money?
A: Good question, but the answer is "Not at all." Every Career Academy that starts on the First Coast must be focused on an industry that focuses on high-skill, high-wage jobs. One example is the logistics industry. See the table below for the wide range of career opportunities in just that one industry.
Jobs & Salaries in Logistics, Transportation and Supply Chain Management
|
Buyer/Purchasing Agent |
$30-45K |
|
Customer Service Manager |
$30-60K |
|
Distribution Manager |
$35-70K |
|
Distribution Supervisor |
$24-60K |
|
Inventory Manager-Planner |
$25-50K |
|
Logistics Planner |
$60-75K |
|
Logistics Analyst |
$25-50K |
|
Logistics Services Salesperson |
$35-70K |
|
Logistics Manager |
$40-70K |
|
Materials Manager |
$35-60K |
|
Purchasing Manager |
$35-60K |
|
Shipping/Receiving Clerk |
$19-27K |
|
Shipping/Receiving Supervisor |
$22-40K |
|
Supply Chain Manager |
$88-92K |
|
Supply Chain Analyst |
$30-70K |
|
Traffic Manager |
$35-60K |
|
Transportation Manager |
$30-70K |
|
Transportation Analyst |
$30-50K |
|
Transportation Coordinator |
$20-40K |
|
Warehouse Stock Clerk |
$19-26K |
|
Warehouse Manager |
$35-60K |
|
Warehouse Supervisor |
$26-60K |
Listed salaries are starting salary ranges, and may vary depending on location, experience, and education. Salary information from www.salary.com and www.logisticsmgmt.com.
Q: Do Career Academies emphasize finding students entry-level jobs?
A: One of the most powerful things about Career Academies is that students gain a solid academic foundation AND a marketable skill. Students often enroll in college, but there is also an immediate opportunity to enter the workforce with a marketable skill.
Q: Aren’t Career Academies focused on students who are behind in their studies?
A: No. An important benefit of the Career Academy small learning community experience is that students learn with an integrated curriculum focused on a specific industry. Because academic courses are interwoven into the skills training, students of all learning styles and performance levels are able to achieve success. Career Academies are the opposite of the "slow track."
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