Carle Place UFSD student Nicole O’Connell was honored recently for breaking new ground in career and technical education (CTE). O’Connell—who is a personal trainer, exercise science and sports medicine student at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech—earned the 2016 Vanguard Award for seeking academic and career paths that defy conventional gender roles. The award recognizes exceptional students enrolled in CTE programs that prepare them for nontraditional careers.
The Vanguard Award was created by the Nontraditional Employment and Training (NET) Project, which provides statewide assistance to CTE institutions that offer nontraditional programs. NET is funded through the New York State Education Department and is committed to preparing students for the workforce through the promotion of gender-neutral educational strategies and practices.
“These students are the future of the American workforce,” said Barry Tech Principal Laurie Harris. “At Barry Tech, it is our goal to teach our students the skills they need for employment and to give them direction for college. But we’re also creating thoughtful, knowledgeable leaders who will contribute to the advancement of equity in the workplace.”
—Submitted by Nassau BOCES
