Ever wonder why at Pivotal, we refer to our coaching support after high school as our post-secondary program rather than our university? It’s because there are many paths to success and self-sufficiency, and they don’t always involve a traditional 4-year university degree. Many students choose an associate’s degree from a community college, or pursue a trade or vocational program after high school. 

Since the pandemic, there has been a huge increase in demand for skilled workers and employment in many trades is expected to grow within the next decade. Even prior to the pandemic, there was a shortage of skilled trade workers but now, the demand for carpenters, painters, electricians, skilled construction workers, and other vocational jobs continues to increase. Coupled with the fact that trade/vocational programs are often less expensive and take less time to complete than a traditional bachelor’s degree, more students look to the trades to find their long-term occupation. 

Pivotal scholar Derrick discovered our program as he was graduating from high school and decided to use his Pivotal scholarship for a degree in business marketing. But he struggled with college, and wasn’t sure it was right for him and then he met someone who suggested that he look into becoming an electrician and encouraged him to take the required aptitude tests. 

“It was life changing,” says Derrick. “I worried that the Pivotal team would be disappointed if I  didn’t finish his bachelor's degree but they were nothing but supportive. They just knew who I was and know I was trying to better myself.”  

Today, Derrick is in an apprenticeship program at Daytona State College, part of the union and on his way to becoming a master electrician. He is still working with Pivotal as he completes his post-secondary work. 

“Pivotal is and has always been my support and I know they will always have my back, now and forever. They paved the way for my education and being able to move forward. I’ve learned that dedication, ambition, and motivation are the best things in life and Pivotal believed in me so I could start to believe in myself.” 

As we look to the future and the paths available to our scholars, our coaches are focused on helping students find the path that make the most sense for each of them individually, in the situation they are in.