Three Bermudians are benefiting from a novel technical education programme at Alabama's J.F. Drake State Technical College.

The two-part Edu-Tech Programme, under the guidance of International Strategic Management Limited president Michael Stowe, is designed to enhance students' technical learning while developing life skills.

The first part is the Technical Qualification and Multi-Skill Concept which is designed to expose students to a wide range of technologies which broadens their knowledge base, skills and employment marketability.

Students must meet the requirements of their major field while also completing additional courses. From the moment they enrol until the time they secure a job they are managed by Edu-Tech.

Of the 16 students studying under the programme, three were highlighted this week for their efforts.

Josh Bremar is studying Industrial Electrical Technology with additional courses in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology and Computer Information Systems Technology.

Gerald Saltus is enrolled in the same major course and he has made the Dean's and President's List for excellent performance. He is also studying computer operations systems and programming and is a prime candidate for university studies for a Bachelor of Science Degree next year.

And Jason Stowe is taking the same major with further studies in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology and Computer Operation Systems.

He is interested in pursuing a career in environmental management systems through the use of electronics, air conditioning and computers in building control systems.

The second part of the programme which the trio will eventually be evolved in is the Post-Graduate Studies Review and Assessment Programme.

This stage will see the graduate placed in a job and begin an apprenticeship.

After nine months he will return to J.F. Drake State Technical College for a five-day review and assessment.

If deficiencies in subject knowledge and skill competence are identified, recommendations and a remedial action plan are devised. the former students' employers are involved in the review.

A similar initiative is set to be introduced on island through Mr. Stowe's company and the Department of Labour and training. The Job Readiness and Employment Retention Programme will teach people the skills needed to seize employment and perform effectively in the workplace.

BUILDING A FUTURE -- Bermudian Josh Bremar is majoring in Industrial Electrical Technology, through the Edu-Tech programme at J.F. Drake State Technical College.