WO Grad. Emily Cruz starts her days at 8:45 AM at Exalta Health in Grand Rapids. She assists with dental procedures, as well as sterilizing instruments. She participated in the Dental program at Careerline Tech Center. Cruz said, “I was able to connect with oral surgeons and expand my knowledge with other professions in dentistry. This helped me decide on  my future career as a general dentist and eventually specializing in oral surgery.”

 Careerline Tech Center:

   This program provides free career education for juniors and senior in highschool allowing them to prepare for their future careers with hands-on experience. This program can give certain credits towards college or help with whatever career interest.

Preparing for your career:

Sr. Sydney Phanthavong has decided to take interest in the cosmetology major for her senior year of highschool. She said, “It has prepared me by allowing me to start in the industry as early as possible. Being in cosmetology early gave me a head start on the many hours needed for the licensing process in the future.” Phanthavong has been able to learn not only about hair, but also facials, manicures, waxing, and chemical services, during this program. 

   Sr. Vincent Uildriks, who started CTC in late 2024 said, “CTC has provided me with an idea of all the tools I will need for my career, along with the knowledge required to start a career in this field.” Uildriks can gain hands-on experience with professionals and other students for his future job.

Benefit from CTC:

Phantavong said, “I think it’s very beneficial. Cosmetology school can be costly. Having an opportunity to start early and cheaper is a great way to begin my career. For example, I had to pay a $300 fee for my supplies kit. If I were to start later without the program, I would have to pay for that and not already have 200+ hours of schooling. For my school specifically, I am able to use those 200+  hours in the college program and since I already have my supplies kit, the cost to continue in college is significantly reduced.” There are many amazing opportunities Tech is able to support students with. 

   Sr. Anniyah Thomas said, “I think it’s beneficial because as soon as you graduate from the Tech Center you’re presented with multiple opportunities. If you are serious about the program you chose, it will benefit you in your future career because students from the Tech Center are more likely to be chosen for a job. I also think as a student it is helpful because the change of environment makes school easier.”

Overall:

This opportunity is very helpful and important if you are looking for an early start in your career. What is strongly recommended is talking to your counselor and figuring out how to get into this amazing program. Over 30 different programs are waiting for you to join!