Transforming Career Development at Flagler College: Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce Today

The Career Development Center (CDC) at Flagler College is broadening its efforts and strengthening its commitment to student success beyond the classroom. 

Flagler’s CDC, situated on the second floor of the student center, aims to support students and alumni by facilitating professional development resources, aiding in network building, and organizing events to help foster success in their chosen fields. 

Laying a Strong Foundation 

Since taking on the role of Director, Vernita Bowens has been dedicated to personally engaging with students to explore their career goals. Over the years, she has successfully helped students land meaningful careers and has rejuvenated key events such as the Career and Graduate School Expo. 

“The career expo offers students a chance to prepare for the real world,” Bowens told The Gargoyle, the College’ student-run news publication. “My favorite part is walking around and seeing students talking to recruiters and having those engaging conversations. I love to see them laughing and talking; it’s so genuine.” 

Bowens has also leaned into CDC resources like FOCUS-2, a career assessment tool, an extensive database of jobs suited for each major, as well as multiple job and internship search platforms.  

Expanding the CDC Team 

Last spring, Bowens welcomed Alec Spicer as an assistant director to the CDC. Spicer previously worked as a Career Development Advisor for Florida State College at Jacksonville. 

Since arriving at Flagler, Spicer has appreciated the intimate nature of its campus community. 

“Having interpersonal relationships and getting to know students is what separates this institution from bigger universities, which makes it a hidden gem,” Spicer told The Gargoyle.“I am fortunate to be in a position in which I can meet with students directly and impact their college experience by providing resources they may be unaware of.”  

More recently, another team member joined Bowens and Spicer as they continue to re-imagine career readiness and student success. As the new Associate Director of the CDC, Rick Johnson will lead efforts to expand internship programs and create new employment opportunities. 

Paving New Pathways for Students 

Johnson will lead the Center’s efforts to build relationships with local, regional, and national employers, creating internship pipelines that allow students to gain practical, hands-on experience in their respective fields. 

“Collaborating with employers to develop internship, job, and hands-on learning opportunities for our students is truly fulfilling. Whether it’s through meaningful job placements, internships, or experiential learning programs, I am committed to strengthening our partnerships with employers to support the growth and success of our community.”

With nearly two decades of client-facing business experience, Johnson brings a fresh perspective to Flagler’s CDC. He plans to launch initiatives to increase job placement rates for graduates by developing strategic partnerships with relevant industries and expanding the College’s employer network. 

Assistant Director Spicer remains dedicated to helping every Flagler College student land a meaningful internship and secure employment after graduation. With their expanded team, he will continue to oversee career coaching, resume workshops, interview preparation, and other professional development services, like the “career closet,” that support students in professional endeavors.  

Equipping the Future Workforce 

Bowens is confident this innovative team of three will only advance Flagler’s vision for career development resources, positioning students for success in an increasingly competitive and ever-changing job market. 

“In the future, we will integrate more advanced technology and focus on developing skills for emerging industries such as AI, renewable energy and biotechnology,” she said. 

Already on the docket for Fall 2024, the CDC will host three workshops aimed to equip students with knowledge on “AI Ethics & Bias,” unearthing ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) practices; “AI & Your Career,” diving into career integration of AI; and “AI for Sustainability,” exploring sustainable development through AI applications. 

“These workshops will touch on different topics and aspects of the career industry, but also focus on AI and the future, and most importantly what it looks like going forward,” Bowens said. 

Partnering with Employers 

Join us in shaping the future workforce. Connect with Flagler College’s Career Development Center today to tap into a pool of talented, driven students. Visit the CDC’s Information for Employers webpage for additional information, recruitment opportunities, and steps to get connected with us.  

Check out all resources and events mentioned in the article by visiting  Career Development Center | Flagler College, contacting careerdevelopment@flagler.edu , or calling the CDC at (904) 819-6286.