In this episode of the NCLA podcast, host Rachael Mann interviews Rick Turner, Superintendent of Vantage Career Center, and Daniel Joyce, a STEM instructor specializing in drone technology. They discuss the evolution and impact of Vantage's Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, highlighting the innovative approach to integrating drone training in STEM education. The conversation explores various applications of drones across industries, including law enforcement, agriculture, real estate, and healthcare, emphasizing the future potential and industry demand for drone technology. Rick and Daniel share valuable insights on starting a drone program, including curriculum development, necessary certifications, partnerships, and the ongoing need for technological adaptation. This episode underscores Vantage Career Center's commitment to preparing students for emerging careers by equipping them with cutting-edge skills and fostering a culture of continual learning and innovation.

00:00 Introduction to the NCLA Podcast

00:11 Meet Rick Turner: A Journey in CTE

00:54 Meet Daniel Joyce: Innovating with Drones

01:36 Rick Turner on Vantage Career Center

04:06 Daniel Joyce on Drone Program Development

18:11 Challenges and Future of Drone Programs

24:47 Partnerships and Resources for Drone Programs

29:50 Preparing Students for the Future of Drones

40:36 Advice for Starting a Drone Program

42:29 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Rick Turner is a highly experienced professional in the field of Career Technical Education (CTE) with 40 years of dedicated service. He is the current Superintendent at Vantage Career Center in Van Wert, Ohio. Rick has served in a variety of positions in secondary and post-secondary CTE education.

Rick also served as a Director of Adult Education, overseeing all executive-level administrative and leadership functions for Adult Workforce Education. Rick's deep involvement in local, regional, and state initiatives reflects his commitment to advancing workforce training and economic development. Under his leadership, the Adult Education program thrived, both financially and in community status, serving over 4,000 students annually with a wide array of

full-time, part-time, and specialized programs.

Rick's extensive career began as a machine trades instructor, later transitioning to various leadership roles including Learning Community Leader and Tech Prep Coordinator. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in shaping successful programs, securing substantial funding, and forging partnerships with key industry players. His passion for education is matched by his strong community ties, having been involved in multiple outreach initiatives and

workforce development boards.

Rick is a high school graduate of Vantage Career Center. With numerous accolades, including being inducted into the Vantage Career Center Alumni Hall of Fame, Rick has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead with vision and foster meaningful connections within his community.

Daniel Joyce is a STEM and Part 107 Instructor at Vantage Career Center in Van Wert, Ohio. He is a graduate of The University of Liverpool, United Kingdom and Bowling Green State University, Ohio. Daniel moved to the United States from the United Kingdom in 1999 and became a US citizen in 2018. He has been a Science Teacher for 38 years (in both the UK and US) covering all areas of Science. He has a fascination for technology and how it creates new and exciting opportunities for our students.

The development of the Drone Training Program at Vantage Career Center has allowed Daniel to indulge his love for technology while also empowering students to acquire valuable skills that will benefit them in their future careers.

Daniel is a resident of Pandora, Ohio where he lives with his wife Terri, dogs Charlie and Zinny, and cats Katalina and Hemi.

To learn more about Vantage Career Center's Drone Training Program, visit: https://www.vantagecareercenter.com/