DeAnna D. Thomas, Executive Director of Lake Technical College, was the Keynote Speaker at the South Lake Chamber of Commerce Breakfast on October 21.
She brought with her Facts and Figures about technical schools and specifically Lake Technical College, noting: About half of the job openings between now and 2029 will go to those with an occupational certificate or AS degree (“the Technical elite”)
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that only 21% of the jobs created between now and 2028 will require an advanced college degree. And the biggest percentage of jobs will require post-secondary certifications and credentials.
During the 2021-2022 Year Lake Tech has served over 2,600 students (Job Prep, Adult Education, Continuing Ed) and includes:
- Over 500 full-program Graduates
- Over 800 Advanced Certificates
- 404 Students Earned Industry Certifications/Licenses
- 91% Program Completion, 91% Job Placement, and 100% Licensure Pass
- Awarded over $3Million in grants and scholarships to students and NO student loans.
DeAnna Thomas is a native Floridian and has lived in Lake County since 1981. Her workforce development experience spans almost thirty years, with nearly eleven years in leadership roles. Her education began in career and technical education (CTE) as a dual-enrolled high school student. Her success today is a true testament to the opportunities CTE provides for everyone. Thomas earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s degree from the University of South Florida.
The Main Event Sponsor was Joel George of AdventHealth. He described the services that the Health Park offers, which include primary care+, imaging, lab, rehab, sleep medicine and specialty care. He noted, “We believe the future of healthcare requires us to be consumer obsessed. With healthcare options all under one roof for convenience, it helps break down barriers, which often deter patients from receiving the care they need when they need it”.
The breakfast’s co-sponsor was Compassionate Care Hospice. Since its founding in 1993, Compassionate Care Hospice has remained committed to its mission of affirming life during its final stages by providing holistic, compassionate care to patients and their families, increasing access to hospice care for underserved populations and delivering resources and education to the community. Compassionate Care Hospice provides high-quality care in South Lake County.
The Ray Goodgame Outstanding Student Leader Award was presented by Thom Kieft, VP of Facilities Planning and Operations, Lake Sumter State College to recipient Justin Jeremiah Martin, of Real Life Christian Academy. (go to JUSTIN JEREMIAH MARTIN to learn more).
October’s Ambassador of the Month was presented to Gayle Tomasini, Headquarter Honda.
