“You’re all about to take off, even if you don’t fully realize it yet. Maybe you feel it, maybe you hope for it—that’s why you’re here. But remember, you’re the drivers of your own cars, the drivers of your own lives. The decisions you make and the preparation you put in will open doors for you.” ~ Sedrick Settle, Co-Coordinator, CLRI
The Career and Leadership Readiness Institute (CLRI) launched its Fall 2024 session on September 19th at NOVA’s Woodbridge Campus, welcoming over 20 participants. Students toured the almost completed $5 million data center training facility, engaged in interactive activities, and learned about the program’s unique offerings.
Funded by grants, CLRI is a free initiative designed to help NOVA students become competitive candidates in the job market. Led by NOVA IET’s M. Andy Chaves and Sedrick Settle, CLRI is recognized for preparing students with career readiness skills and developing competitive applicants for internships and jobs in the IET industry.
The event provided students with a friendly and engaging introduction to the program, which has become a cornerstone of career development at NOVA. Throughout the session, students shared why they joined:
- “I’m in the Data Center Operations certificate program. A friend who works at a data center recommended it as a great career path. I’m here because the CLRI program seems like an opportunity I should take advantage of.”
- “I’m studying cybersecurity, but I feel a bit lost. I attend my IT classes, but I don’t have a community or know anyone studying the same thing. That’s why I’m here.”
- “I’m in the Data Center Operations program. I’m here to meet new people and build my network.”
- “I’m an IT student at NOVA, and I also work there as an IT technician. I’m here for professional development.”
- “I’m studying cybersecurity and heard about the program from Mr. Chaves. I’m excited to be here and meet new people.”
- “I’m studying to become a network engineering specialist, and I’m here to develop my communication skills.”
- “I’m here for the opportunity to network and connect with others for my career development.”
- “I’m studying computer science and general studies, and I’m graduating this semester. I’m here to develop job-related skills and expand my network.”
After a fun icebreaker, participants downloaded the NOVA Engage App to connect within the Fall CLRI group and with the broader NOVA community.
Mr. Chaves and Mr. Settle then outlined key program highlights, including an alumni panel where graduates offer feedback, site visits to local data centers, mock interviews with Amazon Web Services (AWS), and an executive networking event featuring vice presidents, directors, and CEOs from local industry partners. Participants will also learn how to create standout technical resumes, develop interpersonal skills, build personal brands, and more.
The evening wrapped up with a fun, hands-on activity where teams used mystery bags to create and market a product, followed by a pizza social.
For NOVA IET students, the CLRI program is a critical component in developing interpersonal (soft) skills to complement their technical knowledge. Many graduates have secured internships and job offers as a result of participating and learning key leadership skills during the program.
The next CLRI session will begin in February 2025. Interested students can fill out the Interest Form to be notified when registration opens. More information is available at www.nvcc.edu/career-services/clri.html.