Jake Kepich is the Medium / Heavy Duty Truck Technician Instructor at the Center of Applied Technology North in Severn, MD. In this podast, Lindsey and Jake speak about Advisory Boards. His program is certified by ASE Education Foundation and AED Associated Equipment Distributors. It prepares students for the shift towards electric vehicles and hydrogen power in the industry. The advisory board plays an important role in the program's success, providing input, donations, and support. There are two advisory meetings per year where they discuss program updates, budget, and large purchases. The school holds an open house where employers showcase their businesses to prospective students and parents. Students can start training as a medium / heavy duty truck technician in their junior year after going through an application process. Summer internships are offered by some business partners of the program.
Jake also discusses various activities and programs that employers are implementing to engage students and recruit them for their industries. These include summer boot camps, apprenticeship fairs, and youth apprenticeship programs. He also mentions the age limit for participation in these programs and highlights the benefits of paid opportunities. Additionally, they discuss how advisory board meetings are managed, including both in-person and virtual options. They provide tips on communication with employers and share resources available on creating effective advisory committees. Overall, the focus is on promoting career paths in trucking for young people through engaging programs and partnerships with industry professionals.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Jake and His Background (00:)
Jake's introduction as a guest on NGT talks
Chapter 2: Transition to Electric Vehicles and Hydrogen Fuel Cells (03:)
Jake's focus on preparing students for electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cells
Reasons for changing the program's name
Prioritization of technology shift
Chapter 3: History and Growth of the Program (04:)
Previous teachers at the Center of Applied Technology North
Challenges and gradual growth of the program
Importance of resources and advisory board support
Chapter 4: Structure and Role of the Advisory Board (07:)
Separation of the program and advisory board
Discussion of fall and spring meetings
Agenda and budget considerations
Interaction between advisory board members and students
Chapter 5: Open House and Employer Involvement (12:)
Open house and its participants (parents, employers, teachers, administrators)
Informal interaction and relationship building
Promotion of businesses through showcases
Chapter 6: Work-Based Learning Opportunities (14:)
Application and selection process for students
Pathways and prioritization
Summer internships and apprenticeships
Benefits and involvement of employers
Chapter 7: Apprenticeship Fair and Blueprint Money (21:)
Coordination of apprenticeship fair by the guidance department
Opportunities for students to discuss summer apprenticeships
Hours and training counted towards apprenticeship program
Chapter 8: Managing Advisory Board Meetings (24:)
Hybrid meetings (in-person and virtual options)
Communication and invitations through Outlook
Visit our website: www.nextgentruckers.com
Contact us at: info@nextgentruckers.com
Follow us on socials here:
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube
LinkedIn
TikTok