Ten Reach Cyber Charter School juniors and seniors are learning glazing, drywall finishing and painting thanks to a new partnership with the Finishing Trades Institute of the MidAtlantic Region, 2190 Hornig Road.
The students are taking part in a 23-week course and received five certifications.
Although the majority of the curriculum is administered online, students are required to visit FTI-MAR five times for in-person training. The course also prepares them for the Wonderlic Test, which they will need to pass to qualify for an apprenticeship.
“Reach Cyber is proud to partner with the Finishing Trades Institute to offer this critical experience for our students,” said Jane Swan, CEO of Reach Cyber. “Over the last several years we have ramped up our curricula to immerse students in all kinds of career paths through our Career Readiness initiatives. With FTI-MAR’s prominence in the region and its success in connecting individuals to lifelong careers in important trades, their partnership seemed just right for us. I’m excited to witness our students open up new windows of opportunity.”
Tureka Dixon, recruitment coordinator of FTI-MAR, is the instructor for the new program. She is an Architectural Glass and Metal Technician Program-certified union glazier with more than a decade of experience.
“When I speak to most students and I ask them what they know about construction, carpentry, plumbing and electrical work typically come to mind,” Dixon said. “Many are unfamiliar with glaziers, sheet metal workers or boilermakers. My job is to expose them to all of these trades in case one resonates with them. I want them to say, ‘At least they know I have this as an option.’ FTI-MAR is delighted to partner with Reach Cyber to bring that awareness and open those doors for students.”
Students are learning math, blueprint reading, green construction, financial literacy, lead paint removal and bridge painting.
Reach Cyber’s Career Readiness program, introduced in 2021, encourages students to explore fields of interest throughout their entire education journey, starting from kindergarten. Once they reach high school, they can earn certifications through hands-on, experiential learning programs in areas such as marine biology, carpentry, veterinary science and cosmetology. The program also connects students to internship and apprenticeship opportunities with organizations and trade unions across Pennsylvania.
For more information on Reach Cyber’s Career Readiness initiatives, visit www.reachcyber.org. ••
