Dr. Michelle Keylon, Superintendent and CEO, Francis Tuttle Technology Center

Francis Tuttle is a distinguished career and technical education institution. We provide comprehensive technical training to both high school students and adults, encompassing a wide array of programs—from traditional fields like culinary arts to cutting-edge disciplines such as cybersecurity. Additionally, we offer programs in automotive technology, cosmetology, and many others, amounting to approximately 35 distinct fields of study.

Beyond our student-focused programs, we extend our expertise to corporate training. Businesses can engage our services to enhance the skills of their employees. We also offer open-enrollment courses, which are concise, evening-based programs designed to help individuals refine their skills for career advancement or transition.

In essence, Francis Tuttle is more than a school; it is a catalyst for workforce development. Our mission is to ensure our community benefits from a highly skilled, adaptable workforce prepared to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving economy.

At the core of our success lies our unwavering commitment to a culture of excellence. We prioritize the success of our students by fostering a supportive environment where they can thrive academically and professionally. We ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, enabling them to seamlessly transition into the workforce.

Another pivotal element is our team. We are meticulous in selecting educators who bring not only expertise but also the passion and attitude necessary to inspire and guide our students. Many of our instructors have extensive industry experience, enriching the learning process with real-world insights.

Lastly, the breadth of our programming allows us to meet the diverse needs of industries in our region. This comprehensive approach, combined with our culture and exceptional staff, forms the bedrock of our success.

One of our most innovative undertakings has been the introduction of our career academies. We currently operate three academies tailored to high school students, focusing on bioscience and medicine, engineering, and computer science.

These academies represent a fusion of rigorous academic instruction in advanced math and science with practical, technical training. Students engage in hands-on projects that bring theoretical concepts to life. This approach not only deepens their understanding but also prepares them to excel in higher education and beyond.

Our Engineering Academy students, for instance, have collectively earned 16 U.S. patents for their projects—a testament to the program’s ingenuity. Similarly, our bioscience students collaborate with local colleges on research initiatives, often participating in laboratory work during the summer. Some of these students have even achieved the remarkable feat of gaining simultaneous acceptance to undergraduate programs and medical school.

For adult learners, we offer robust programs in high-demand trades, including diesel mechanics, automotive technology, welding, and healthcare fields such as licensed practical nursing and respiratory therapy. We are also in the process of introducing a surgical technician program in the upcoming academic year. These programs not only address workforce needs but also empower individuals to pursue rewarding careers.

These initiatives are among our most impactful efforts.

Project Hope: This program is designed to support high school students who are at risk of dropping out due to academic challenges. Students who are at least two credits behind can enroll at Francis Tuttle to recover credits while simultaneously participating in an occupational program. This dual-focus approach gives students both the qualifications to graduate and the skills to succeed in the workforce or pursue higher education.

Project Search: This program serves students with disabilities, preparing them for meaningful employment in highly technical and specialized roles. Hosted in large hospitals, students complete internships in areas such as surgical kit preparation and laboratory instrument maintenance. These experiences equip them with the skills needed to secure sustainable employment and lead independent lives.

Project Build: Aimed at incarcerated individuals, this program provides training in construction trades. Participants attend classes as part of a work-release program, acquiring skills that position them for employment upon their release. We have also established relationships with employers willing to hire individuals with criminal records, ensuring these students have a pathway to a stable, productive life. The program boasts a 90% success rate in reducing recidivism, underscoring its transformative impact.

Partnerships are indeed integral to our mission. We are constantly seeking community and industry partners who share our vision of cultivating the next generation of skilled professionals.

Each of our programs benefits from the insights of a business advisory committee, which comprises industry representatives who review our curriculum and provide guidance on emerging trends. Potential partners can contribute in various ways, such as guest lecturing, offering internships, or providing on-the-job training opportunities. These collaborations ensure our programs remain aligned with industry demands, ultimately benefiting both our students and the broader community.

One significant challenge we face is the overwhelming demand for our programs. While this affirms the value of what we offer, it also means that many prospective students are placed on waitlists due to limited capacity.

This dichotomy drives us to continually explore ways to expand access and serve more students. Education has the power to transform lives—not just for individuals but for their families and communities. Witnessing these transformations is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work.

Lifelong learning is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. Whether you are exploring a new career path or enhancing your existing skills, the pursuit of knowledge should never cease. Career and technical education is one of many pathways available, offering accessible and impactful opportunities.

At Francis Tuttle, we are committed to supporting learners at every stage of their journey, from high school to adulthood and beyond. My message is simple: keep learning, keep growing, and seize the opportunities that education provides to shape a brighter future.