Pictured (left to right): Keyvonte Johnson, Elma Porter, Katherine Ryan, Ja’Amarion McClease, Kevin Campbell, Demetrus McIntyre, Tylik Gibbs. These students attended ECVC’s Pre-ETS Job Ready Jumpstart Summer Program from June 16th to June 19th, 2025.
Greenville, NC – June 30, 2025 – Eastern Carolina Vocational Center (ECVC) recently completed its first Pre-ETS Summer Job Ready Jumpstart, a four-day immersive experience designed to help high school students with disabilities explore future careers and post-secondary pathways. Held June 16–19, the program offered participants firsthand exposure to a variety of industries and education options.
The summer experience is part of ECVC’s Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) initiative, which launched during the 2024–2025 school year in partnership with the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD). The program serves students with disabilities ages 14–21, providing short-term, career-focused experiences that help participants explore job interests, develop workplace readiness, engage in work-based learning, and build self-advocacy skills.
The goal is to offer meaningful support as students prepare for life after high school. Early success has positioned the program for continued growth across the region. “We are excited about the impact of ECVC’s Pre-ETS program thus far as we look to expand across Eastern North Carolina,” said Darone Dancy, ECVC’s Vice President of Workforce Operations.
Participants in the Job Ready Jumpstart program toured multiple local employers and educational institutions, including:
Grady-White Boats – Students toured the production floor and supporting departments of the renowned boat manufacturer, learning how luxury boats valued at over $2 million are custom-built. They also discovered that Grady-White offers job opportunities to individuals with or without college degrees, making it a viable employer for many different career paths.
Department of Social Services (DSS) – At DSS, students observed the compassionate work being done to support families in need. They received information about career opportunities in public service, including roles in Food & Nutrition Services, Medicaid, and Work First. DSS offers on-the-job training and encourages applications from individuals 18 and older, even without prior experience.
ECU Health Medical Center – Students explored three essential departments at the hospital. In Food & Nutrition Services, they observed meal prep and delivery for both patients and guests. In Central Distribution, they saw the logistical operations behind medical inventory and how it supports various departments. Finally, Environmental Services staff explained the vital role they play in maintaining a clean and safe hospital environment—performed by a team of 70 people each shift.
Pitt Community College (PCC) – Students were introduced to a range of academic opportunities and practical career paths. A guest speaker shared key insights into applying to PCC, financial aid options, tuition comparisons with four-year universities, and available student activities. Tours included the Graphic Arts department, where two instructors showcased creative career possibilities. One participant—a recent high school graduate—was especially excited to be starting Graphic Arts courses at PCC this fall. Students also toured the Polysomnography program, which prepares individuals to evaluate and treat sleep disorders—highlighting a unique and growing career field in healthcare.
ECVC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help individuals with disabilities attain a higher quality of life through the achievement of their vocational goals. In addition to Pre-Employment Transition Services, ECVC offers job placement, skills development, and vocational rehabilitation support. The organization also provides commercial janitorial services, business services, operates a public custom frame shop, and partners with businesses and government agencies to provide meaningful employment opportunities across the region.
For more information about Pre-ETS or ECVC’s programs, visit www.ecvcinc.com or call 252-758-4188.