When you invest in your education and improvement and show initiative, employers notice and are included to give you a shot

Fletch’s Perspective

During this time of pomp and circumstance, caps and gowns and commencement speeches, I’d like to honor a very special graduate who’s quite literally in a class by himself.

Reagan Poletti, 18, is the first person to graduate from an exciting new Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County program—our Home Builder Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT).

Available at our new 3,200-square-foot workforce center at our Hobe Sound club, PACT instills vital lessons on the building trades by incorporating performance-based learning opportunities. The course combines instructions in vocational and academic skills, career-development techniques, and on-the-job training.

PACT participants earn a recognized pre-apprenticeship certification. Upon completion, they can pick from select trades such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing or HVAC, gaining advanced training and earning additional certifications along the way.

Reagan deservedly holds the claim of inaugural graduate, but soon more will follow his example. During our summer enrichment session, we’re availing key elements of the program to younger members.

This fall, we’ve secured arrangements at local high schools for interested students to participate in PACT through a hybrid program that takes place at our club facilities as well as on school properties. We’re also in conversation with a partner to formalize job placement opportunities through the apprenticeship model.

Before things really take off, it’s worth a moment’s pause to recognize what Reagan has accomplished—and we know this is just the beginning for him and so many others. When our flagship Stuart club opens in the fall—complete with 15,000 square feet of advanced workforce development labs featuring certified instructors and guest experts in a variety of industries—it will provide the perfect pipeline for future PACT participants.

BGC is serious about dramatically expanding the access Martin County high school students enjoy to gainful, purposeful, and meaningful preparation on their paths to employment that will be fulfilling—financially and much more so.

Reagan Poletti, first ever graduate from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County Home Builder Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT). He's pictured in the center with Greg Burnell, the program's skilled trades instructor. 

Thanks to the creativity of the BGC team and our network of business leaders, we’re nimble and connected enough to adapt to ensure the lessons reflect the evolving dynamics of the industry and the marketplace.

When speaking to prospective employers, the short supply of qualified, motivated prospects is a frequently stated concern. So while their journey to qualified status is just beginning, program graduates such as Reagan are demonstrating the grit and willingness to gather and sharpen the skills needed to compete.

When you invest in your education and improvement and show initiative, employers notice and are included to give you a shot. That’s one PACT you can count on.

Keith Fletcher's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

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