Pathways to Success offers practical, hands-on work experience for high school students in the Tallahassee area pursuing a certificate in a career and technical education program. Students work with FSU Facilities mentors/supervisors and gain experience in electrical work, motor pool, carpentry, plumbing, control technology, and general trades. All Pathways students receive safety training in lock out/tag out, ladder safety, fall prevention, and radiation safety.
Launched in early 2024, Pathways to Success was designed to equip students with fundamental technical and job readiness skills. These skills are essential for thriving in a registered apprenticeship program and serve as a valuable resource for the potential employment of student trainees upon completing the program and graduation.
High school students over 16 years of age who are currently enrolled in a high school career and technical education, or a related field of study program are eligible to apply for Pathways to Success.
Interested in applying? Contact Interim Assistant Director of Shops Ben Grant for more information.
Skills training is available to Pathways to Success students in the following areas:
Zone Maintenance
- Perform maintenance and repair tasks (general trades, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, HVAC)
- Troubleshoot and maintain in diverse building environments
Preventative Maintenance
- Inspect and maintain building system equipment
- Apply predictive maintenance techniques
- Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment
- Operate large-scale, commercial HVAC equipment
Mechanic Shop
- Operate and maintain rotating equipment (pumps, compressors, motors)
- Repair rotating machinery
- Align mechanical components
- Analyze vibrations for equipment diagnostics
Electrical - Construction
- Maintain and install electrical systems (wiring, circuits, and fixtures)
- Apply electrical codes
- Develop troubleshooting techniques for electrical issues
- Use specialized electrical tools and equipment
Controls Shop
- Maintain and install automated control systems
- Troubleshoot issues in control systems
- Program building automation systems (BAS)
- Optimize control systems for efficiency
- Understand mechanical and electrical components
Motor Pool
- Perform maintenance, diagnostics, repair on a variety of vehicles, systems, and components
- Work with engine and drivetrain systems
- Repair brakes and suspension systems
- Apply preventive maintenance practices
- Learn fleet management processes
Pipe Shop
- Maintain, install, and repair piping systems
- Perform pipefitting tasks
- Use welding and soldering techniques
- Interpret blueprints, schematics, and plumbing codes
- Select appropriate materials for pipework
Construction & Labor
- Perform landscaping, paving, and masonry work
- Install exterior structures (fences, walkways)
- Grade sites and drainage systems
- Safely operate heavy equipment and tools
Carpenter
- Perform woodworking, framing, and finish carpentry
- Read and interpret blueprints
- Install doors, windows, and cabinetry
- Repair structural components