IThanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of Martin and Palm Beach Counties, 1n 2022, the center successfully launched a beta test for the “T3 Program - “Teach, Touch, the Trades.” This expansion of our STEAM curriculum broadened the student's future career options by directly exposing them equally to professional opportunities and to service, tech, and trade careers at a young age.
Modules included Culinary, Electronics, Fashion Design & Sewing, Design & Drafting, Auto, Carpentry, and Home Renovation. Each module included a team hands-on project, experience trips with area businesses, and an expert guest who taught a 6-class lesson plan. Trade programming is a critical need in the United States, with Sixty-eight percent of companies reporting difficulty hiring skilled workers and more than one-third reporting they are extremely understaffed.
Survey results from both students and corporate partners exceeded goals. Exposure to opportunities and hands-on learning projects from partners like Florida Atlantic University, Lockheed Martin, and area businesses has proven to increase grade point averages and self-esteem. These are key indicators to improve life outcomes.
If you have an area business you might like to share with the children please reach out to our program team to see how you can get engaged in our community.
