Bobcat Trailblazer To Work Program

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Bobcat Trailblazer To Work Program

The Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program at STU is a comprehensive postsecondary transition program for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Program Overview

The Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program (BTW) at St. Thomas University is a comprehensive two-year, five-semester certificate program in Criminal Justice or Culinary Arts. It is designed specifically for individuals with intellectual disabilities, focusing on self-advocacy, career readiness, and integrated employment. Students enroll in two classes per semester to meet the half-time requirement and participate in experiential learning, internships, and a summer institute. Upon completion, they earn both a Certificate of Achievement and industry credentials, such as the ServSafe Food Handler certification.

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59%

Graduates in transition programs secure paid employment within 1 year

40%

Graduates completing transition programs who continue earning college credits

Credentials Matter

Certifications like ServSafe enhance carer opportunities

Diverse group of students chatting at a library

Career Landscape

The Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program (BTW) prepares graduates for entry-level, competitive employment in two fast-growing fields: Culinary Arts and Criminal Justice. Students gain hands-on training in inclusive, real-world environments while earning industry-recognized credentials. Culinary Arts graduates are equipped for roles in restaurants, hotels, and corporate dining, highlighted by the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certificate. Criminal Justice graduates pursue careers in public safety, security, and court services, ready for positions with agencies, firms, and local government offices.

Beyond immediate career opportunities, BTW also creates a pathway for continued education. Graduates earn the Certificate of Achievement and may transition into general university admission at St. Thomas University, applying credits toward a bachelor’s degree. With support from the STU Career Center, students receive individualized guidance before and after graduation in job search strategies, resume building, and career development, ensuring they are well-prepared for long-term success.

In the Classroom

The Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program (BTW) curriculum is designed to combine relevant academic learning with meaningful experiential opportunities, ensuring students are prepared for both college life and career success. A central part of this experience is the required enrollment in UNI 101 (First Year Experience), a foundational course taken by all STU freshmen. This integration places BTW students in the same classroom as their peers, fostering shared learning, collaboration, and a true sense of belonging in the university community.

Participation in UNI 101 ensures that BTW students receive the same essential information and expectations for success as their neurotypical classmates, while also fulfilling a key requirement of the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP) Act. This inclusive approach maximizes both social and academic integration in a typical college setting, giving students the tools they need to thrive.

To support success in these integrated, credit-bearing courses, BTW provides a robust support model. Students are paired with academic coaches and peer mentors, STU students without disabilities who assist with note-taking, study skills, and group projects. In addition, dedicated faculty advisors collaborate closely with course instructors, creating a network of support that empowers BTW students to meet the challenges of college coursework while building confidence and independence.

Looking for a program that builds independence, skills, and a future?

Enroll today in the Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program to join a community that values inclusion, growth, and achievement.

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Core Program Goals

The Bobcat Trailblazer to Work Program is structured around three foundational goals designed to ensure the holistic success of every participant. These core goals guide all curriculum, support services, and experiential learning opportunities. They include:

Goal 1: Achieve Competitive Employment and Career Readiness

This goal focuses on the primary purpose of the program: transitioning students into the workforce.

Goal 2: Ensure Academic Progress and Foster Lifelong Learning

This goal addresses the required Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and educational foundation provided by the university setting.

Goal 3: Enhance Self-Advocacy, Independence, and Social Engagement

This goal targets the essential life skills and university mandates for a comprehensive transition program.

Fast Facts

Employment Focus
The program’s goal is to prepare graduates for competitive employment.
Industry Credentials
Students earn an industry-recognized credential in their chosen career track during their second year.
Internship Experience
Students participate in paid or unpaid internships and work-based learning, with weekly hours increasing each semester.
Pathway to Degree
Graduates may continue earning additional college credits as they transition toward general university admission and a degree-bearing program.
Special Event
A non-residential summer institute offers a work readiness workshop, experiential learning, and portfolio development.
Clubs and Activities
Students are required to actively participate in at least one student organization each year to encourage community involvement at STU.
Graduation Ceremony
Students participate in a BTW graduation ceremony where they receive their Certificate of Achievement.

Contact

Valerie Hall
Director of the Center for Learning Differences
Biscayne College for Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

Email: VHall2@STU.EDU
Office: (645) 231-3868

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For more information or to begin your enrollment in the in program at STU, please contact our admissions office. Our advisors are ready to assist you.

Admissions
16401 NW 37th Avenue
Miami Gardens, FL 33054
Call or Text: 305-563-8792
Email: admissions@stu.edu

Bobcat Trailblazer To Work Program

Program Overview

Career Landscape

In the Classroom

Looking for a program that builds independence, skills, and a future?

Core Program Goals

Goal 1: Achieve Competitive Employment and Career Readiness

Goal 2: Ensure Academic Progress and Foster Lifelong Learning

Goal 3: Enhance Self-Advocacy, Independence, and Social Engagement

Fast Facts

Employment Focus

Industry Credentials

Internship Experience

Pathway to Degree

Special Event

Clubs and Activities

Graduation Ceremony

Contact

Reach out

Colleges

Information

Compliance