Twenty-one young Bermudians recently received a behind-the-scenes look at the demands and opportunities of training for a technical career.

International Strategic Management Ltd. president Michael Stowe, whose group is behind the training scheme Edu-Tech and its concept of Managed Technical/Vocational Training and Career Development, coordinated the seminar and labelled it a success.

Edu-Tech's Managed Technical Training programme is run at J.F. Drake State Technical College in Huntsville, Alabama. Students are trained in technical and life skills while being closely monitored in and out of class.

The five-day, 20-hour Edu-Tech Technical Career Preparation Seminar kicked off on November 14 with the goal of assisting "young Bermudians with understanding the opportunities, requirements, methods and processes of technical training'', said Mr. Stowe.

"The seminar's success was due to the quality of the presentations delivered and the excellent response of the participants. I am very impressed with the potential that the young participants have for success.

"Overall, the participants demonstrated acceptable levels of initiative and discipline, and motivation increased each successive day of the five-day programme.'' Facilitators included Mr. Stowe, J.F. Drake State's Electrical and Electronics Technology Department Head Bobby Petty, HWP Group Electrical Division Service Manager Carneal Smith, International Correspondence Schools Regional Representative Neville Tatem and Bermuda Industrial Union Education Officer Colin Simmons.

The seminar determined that 12 of the 21 participants were ready to commence formal technical training, said Mr. Stowe.

Five will be assisted with completing their high school requirements and four will be placed in jobs in industries consistent with their career interests.

"This seminar has confirmed that young Bermudians have a significant interest in and aptitude for technology education and technical skills training,'' said Mr. Stowe.

"Unfavourable statistical results and deficit situations only serve to inform us where we should place our efforts and resources. And, when given support, encouragement, direction and assistance concerning career opportunities, the majority will respond in a positive manner.'' BUSINESS BUC