Advistory Day prepares ACIT students for real world

Atlantic County Institute of Technology students got the opportunity to engage with industry professionals in their respective fields.

ACIT's annual Advisory Board Day was held last week.

“Advisory Board Day is one of the many ways ACIT ensures our students graduate ready to succeed,” Superintendent Dr. Phil Guenther said. “By connecting them directly with professionals, we provide invaluable insight into industry expectations, career pathways, and emerging trends. These experiences set our students apart, giving them a head start on their futures.”

The event was particularly meaningful for Stacy Suazo, general manager of Signature Aviation and a four-year ACIT Advisory Board member.

She was able to reconnect with ACIT seniors committed to pursuing careers in aviation who she first met as freshmen.

“It was really inspiring to see that my input, along with the input of my colleagues, may have resonated with these students,” Suazo shared. “They are focused, driven, and taking the next steps toward their futures.”

Students across multiple career programs had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience during Advisory Board Day, including those in health sciences.

“It’s important for students to learn expectations from professionals prior to entering the workforce,” said Brian Vernachio, ACIT’s director of Curriculum for Health Sciences. “We are grateful to have companies such as AtlantiCare, Shore Physicians Group, and Optimal here demonstrating real-world techniques — like strapping someone to a gurney or stabilizing a patient’s neck — so students can practice the skills they will use in their future careers.”

    ACIT Adult Program alum Frank Mazza observes cosmetology students as they practice their nail techniques.
  

The day also served as a homecoming for ACIT Adult Program alumnus Frank Mazza, now a stylist at Infinity Salon in Hammonton. 

He returned to his former classroom alongside cosmetology teacher Leah Cacopardo, a fellow graduate of ACIT’s Adult Cosmetology Program. 

Mazza, who completed the program in 2006, shared an important lesson with students: “Take advantage of every opportunity, even the ones that make you nervous. You never know where they will lead.”

For Josmel Vivero, a junior in the Building Trades program from Absecon, the event was an exciting opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from industry experts. 

“I was really excited to talk to professionals and learn more about the union,” he said.

Vivero's class has been working on constructing sheds for real community buyers since October, and Advisory Board members provided valuable insight into their craftsmanship and progress.

    Josmel Vivero, a junior from Absecon, hones his woodworking skills in the shop.
  

The event also provided educators with critical updates on industry advancements to ensure students are learning the most up-to-date skills.

ACIT dental teacher Gabriele Coslop highlighted the value of collaboration among professionals in her field.

“This is a great way to connect with different curriculums and explore what others in the dental community are doing,” she said.

Carpentry teacher Mike Kuharik echoed the importance of industry connections for faculty as well as students.

 “Advisory Board Day is very impactful because it keeps teachers in touch with the changing industry,” he said. “We want to make sure our curriculum is on par with industry needs so we can teach students how to be marketable and successful in their careers.”