Job Offers Secured by ACIT Seniors through Work-Based Learning Program
Three seniors from the Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) have successfully clinched job offers via the Work-Based Learning Program.
Rishi Patel, Myla Cunningham, and Mehd Ali were among over 60 students participating in internships, apprenticeships, and paid roles throughout Atlantic County.
These initiatives, funded by Atlantic County Workforce Development, provided employers with direct insight into the area’s burgeoning workforce.
Translating classroom knowledge into tangible outcomes, these students have managed to secure employment while still pursuing their education.
“The Work-Based Learning Program at ACIT demonstrates its efficacy for both our students and the employers in Atlantic County,” stated ACIT Principal Joe Potkay.
Employers consistently commend the professionalism, aptitude, and diligence displayed by our students, which drives them to hire. Such offers convey a potent message to local businesses: investing in ACIT students reaps rewards for the entire community.
The trio excelled in their summer engagements, leading to new career opportunities.
Rishi Patel, a senior specializing in Computer Science from Galloway Township, interned with Atlantic City Electric/Exelon. This experience afforded him a multifaceted exposure to various sectors and departments, underscoring the paramount importance of networking.
It compelled him to step beyond his comfort zone, fostering professional connections poised to influence his career trajectory.
Initially gravitating towards civil engineering, Rishi’s experience broadened his perspective to encompass computer science and data analysis, imparting a clearer understanding of the opportunities present in today’s technology-centric industries.
He subsequently received a job offer from Atlantic City Electric/Exelon.
Mehd Ali, a senior in Math, Engineering, and Science hailing from Brigantine, secured an internship at the Hamilton Township Municipal Utilities Authority. His responsibilities involved creating intricate operational diagrams for the authority’s wells, which supply up to 150 million gallons of potable water monthly.
Ali described the experience as transformative, enhancing his appreciation for professional collaboration and the critical role of engineering in community infrastructure.
Hamilton MUA Executive Director Daniel Loveland commended Ali as “an exceptionally bright young individual with a promising future,” adding that the staff thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with him. Ali also received a job offer.
Myla Cunningham, another senior from Galloway specializing in Automotive Technology, spent her summer at Chapman Ford. There, she learned that customer service and networking are equally vital as technical skills for career advancement.
This program afforded her invaluable experience in real-world problem-solving, significantly bolstering her confidence in professional environments.
She was invited to continue her employment with Chapman Ford.
“I intend to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at Stockton University while maintaining my career in the automotive sector,” Cunningham revealed. “The convergence of skills I am cultivating will undoubtedly unlock future opportunities.”
Francis Kuhn, Executive Director of Atlantic County Workforce Development, remarked, When students engage in these paid work experiences, they are doing much more than simply enhancing their resumes.
They are cultivating confidence, establishing networks, and witnessing the applicability of their education in meaningful employment.
Concurrently, local employers recognize the value of investing in the upcoming generation. This synergy creates a ripple effect that enriches our students, our businesses, and the overarching vitality of Atlantic County.
Gina DeMaio, Cooperative Education Coordinator, referred to this initiative as a work pipeline, stating, Students cultivate confidence, acquire practical skills, and forge industry connections, while businesses benefit from motivated young talent equipped with robust technical training.
When employers collaborate with us, they transcend merely filling a transient position—they contribute to shaping the future workforce of South Jersey.
Keira Doody from Absecon completed an EMS internship with the Galloway Township Ambulance Squad, where she participated in real emergency calls and visited preeminent healthcare and public service agencies, including Cooper University Hospital and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office at One World Trade Center.
She deemed it “the most invaluable experience of my summer” and now intends to pursue EMT certification in her senior year.
“Keira gained experiences that very few students her age ever encounter,” stated Lt. Stacey Rodenas.
“Her compassion, eagerness to learn, and readiness to assist were commendable. Her time in the program provided her with practical knowledge and a newfound perspective on service, and we anticipate her success in all her future endeavors.”
Billie Brown from Mays Landing acquired hands-on experience at Great Clips and plans to continue her tenure there before pursuing a business degree to broaden her prospects in the field of cosmetology.
“One of the most significant lessons I’ve gleaned is the necessity of professionalism in cosmetology,” she shared. “Observing how stylists engage with clients has been immensely beneficial.”
Silvio Falcone from Egg Harbor Township managed Summer Sippins at Café on Main, ACIT’s student-run café, garnering firsthand experience in customer service, food preparation, and business operations while serving the local community.
Matthew Naylor completed a training program at JC Motorsports, where he honed his skills in vehicle repair and aims to return next year.
Additionally, ten Health Sciences seniors partnered with Galloway EMS, where they shadowed EMTs, assisted with patient care, and participated in ambulance calls.
Source link: Breakingac.com.
