Pre-Employment Transition Services in North Carolina: Lucas’ Success Story
Pre-Employment Transition Services help students with disabilities build confidence, explore careers, and prepare for life after high school. Through ECVC’s Pre-ETS program, Lucas gained direction and self-advocacy skills that shaped his future.
When Lucas Nieves was in his senior year of high school, he felt uncertain about his future.
“One thing most uncertain to me then would be where my future would be… where I would go,” Lucas shared.
Like many students preparing to graduate, he faced questions about what would come next. Through Pre-ETS, Lucas found the support and guidance he needed to move forward with clarity.
What Are Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)?
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are designed to help students with disabilities ages 14–21 prepare for employment or post-secondary education. In North Carolina, these services focus on:
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Career exploration
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Workplace readiness training
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Self-advocacy skills
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Hands-on learning experiences
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Preparation for competitive integrated employment
Through partnerships with local school systems, ECVC delivers Pre-Employment Transition Services across Eastern North Carolina.
Building Confidence and Direction
Lucas explained that before participating in Pre-ETS, he struggled with a negative outlook and uncertainty about his goals. However, through structured support and guidance, he began developing stronger self-advocacy and clearer direction.
“Where I’m today is much better compared to before,” he said. “Getting things done that I never thought I would do.”
By participating in Pre-ETS, Lucas gained the confidence to set goals and take actionable steps toward his future.
From Pre-ETS to Pitt Community College
Today, Lucas is attending Pitt Community College in Electrical Systems Technology. He enjoys hands-on work, including understanding how electrical systems function and learning how to prolong the life of devices through proper maintenance and safety practices.
His journey demonstrates how Pre-Employment Transition Services can support students in identifying career interests and transitioning successfully from high school to college or employment.
Why Pre-Employment Transition Services Matter
The transition from high school to adulthood can feel overwhelming. Pre-Employment Transition Services provide students with structure, encouragement, and practical experience during this critical period.
Lucas offers advice to other students:
“Keep going. Try to be more persistent. Advocate for yourself. Don’t let negative things continuously bring you down.”
At Eastern Carolina Vocational Center, we are proud to provide Pre-Employment Transition Services in North Carolina that help students build independence, workplace readiness skills, and long-term career pathways.
To learn more about ECVC’s Pre-Employment Transition Services, visit ECVCinc.com/Pre-ETS or contact Mrs. Shirley Reed, Pre-ETS Manager, at [email protected] or 252-317-3112.