Indian River State College Students Spotlight Career and Technical Education Success During CTE Month

February 25, 2025 Indian River State College

Fort Pierce, FL (February 25, 2025) – At Indian River State College, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are transforming students' lives and launching successful careers. This February, during National CTE Month, we're highlighting remarkable students who exemplify the power of hands-on career training.

From Beauty School to Business Owner

Krystal Allen turned her Indian River State College Cosmetology certification into entrepreneurial success. After completing the program, she launched her own business which has thrived even through challenging times. "Hair was always big for me, and it opened a lot of doors," says Allen. She credits Indian River State College’s program with teaching her technical skills and vital business knowledge. "It prepared me with professionalism, how to maintain a business, become an entrepreneur, and manage finances."

Krystal Allen is an Indian River State College Cosmetology program graduate.

Healthcare Heroes in Training

For Ayanna McNeil, Indian River State College's Medical Assisting program is opening doors to a promising healthcare career. Set to graduate this June, McNeil is mastering both clinical and administrative skills. "I'm using this program to explore my options in the medical field while making a difference in people's lives," she explains. With the high demand for medical assistants, McNeil looks forward to starting her career immediately after certification.

Ayanna McNeil, soon-to-graduate from Indian River State College's Medical Assisting program, prepares to launch her healthcare career.

Building a Future in Laboratory Science

Glendy Velasquez, who completes Indian River State College's Phlebotomy program in April, demonstrates how CTE can be a stepping stone to broader career goals. Already planning to continue her education in medical laboratory technology, Velasquez appreciates the hands-on training she's received. "It feels good to be part of the medical field," she shares, noting the abundant job opportunities available to program graduates.

Glendy Velasquez draws blood during her phlebotomy training at Indian River State College, where hands-on experience is preparing her for future advancement in medical laboratory technology.

These stories showcase how Indian River State College’s CTE programs provide practical skills, industry knowledge, and clear pathways to career success. Whether launching a business like Allen, entering healthcare like McNeil, or building toward advanced studies like Velasquez, Indian River State College students find the support and resources they need to achieve their professional goals.

About CTE at Indian River State College

CTE at Indian River State College can take the form of an A.S. degree, technical certificate, vocational certificate, or apprenticeship. The College offers 116 CTE programs spanning fields such as radiography, phlebotomy, dental hygiene, advanced manufacturing, culinary, hospitality, accounting, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, public safety, automotive technology, welding, and HVAC.

Indian River State College's CTE programs feature:

Industry-certified instructors with real-world experience

State-of-the-art training facilities and equipment

Partnerships with local employers for internships and job placement

Flexible scheduling options including evening and online classes

Career counseling and job placement assistance

Many programs can be completed in two years or less, with some offering certifications in as little as a few months. The College maintains strong relationships with local industry partners to ensure curriculum aligns with current workforce needs and emerging technologies.

To learn more about Indian River State College's Career & Technical Education programs, visit irsc.edu.

Dr. Prashanth Pilly, Associate Vice Provost at Indian River State College, recently spoke about CTE on WQCS’s RiverTalk. Listen now at wqcs.org and discover how the College’s hands-on programs are launching rewarding careers and meeting regional workforce needs.

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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida's Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 120 programs leading to bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. For more information, visit irsc.edu.

Media Contact: Kathleen Walter, Public Information Officer, kwalter1@irsc.edu