John Clark and Amanda Burwick were awarded the Ventura Country Pathfinder award on May 9, 2019 for their dedication to their students’ success and the strides to improve their campus organizations. Selected from the many talented and industrious partners in education and business leadership, these individuals demonstrated distinct accomplishments in providing students with irresistibly engaging learning experiences.
John has worked as the lead instructor for the manufacturing program at Ventura College in August of 2017. In his short time at the college he has made great strides in revitalizing the manufacturing program and launching a noncredit program. He organized a bimonthly meeting for technology teachers from throughout Ventura County. During these meetings engineering, technology, and manufacturing teachers gain important knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience related to manufacturing technology, and work collaboratively to align curriculum and strengthen articulations.
He also works closely with the Workforce Education Coalition’s Manufacturing Guild and local and regional industry partners to strengthen the connection between the college, industry and other educational partners. He is dedicated to creating the best manufacturing program to prepare students for success and advancement in manufacturing and meeting our region’s needs.
Amanda join Oxnard College December 2017 as a placement project specialist and has worked tirelessly on developing employer connections, working with faculty advisory groups, and developing campus-based internships. She has partnered with the college’s fire tech , auto body, auto tech, film, culinary restaurant management, and business/entrepreneurship faculty to make these opportunities possible. The faculty at the career education center have worked with Amanda over the years in developing both “paid” credit based and not for credit-based internships. This past fall, Amanda placed over 24 paid student interns with various Ventura county-based organizations and programs.
According to students that have worked with Amanda her role has been key in their success. She works with students to write and polish their resumes, giving them the confidence in applying to internships and online job postings. Amanda works diligently to ensure the most current internship and job information is being circulated to students and works to expand students’ professional networks.
Congratulations Amanda and John.