Galesburg Area Vocational Center: Hands-On Learning and Career Preparation

In this episode of Galesburg's Morning News, WGIL's Tyler Gumm interviews Adam Seaney, director of the Galesburg Area Vocational Center, along with students McKenzie Goff, Araceli Chavez, Elan Baggott and Caleb Claeys. Seaney provides an overview of the first semester's successes, including the expanded Health Occupations program where all 40 students passed their final exam and a projected 95% first-time CNA pass rate. He discusses work-based learning through partnerships with local businesses like Habitat for Humanity and Dave's Auto Body, which help students gain real-world experience and smooth the transition to careers. Students share personal experiences: McKenzie from Williamsfield High School talks about culinary arts and bonding over food; Araceli from Monmouth-Roseville explains balancing Health Occupations and Early Childhood Education while leaning toward teaching; Elan from Galesburg discusses automotive programs and job shadowing; Caleb from Galesburg highlights Building Trades after completing automotive, noting how it beats traditional book work. They all encourage peers to consider GAVC for practical skills and career exploration. Upcoming events include the Healthcare Careers Showcase and CTE Legislative Day, where students advocate for continued funding. Listen to hear why GAVC is growing and helping local students build futures in trades, healthcare and more. [caption id="attachment_693371" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Galesburg Area Vocational Center students Caleb Claeys, Elan Baggott, Araceli Chavez and McKenzie Goff in the WGIL studio after their interview on Galesburg's Morning News. (WGIL)[/caption]