We had a visit from some of Brevard County’s future business leaders and entrepreneurs this morning. Teacher Erik Perna brought his class in today for a tour of the SeaDek factory and a glimpse into the workings of an American manufacturing facility.  Students from the Melbourne High School Academy of Business and Finance learned a little about our company’s history and what it takes to be an entrepreneur in today’s challenging economic and business environment. Hopefully these will be a few of the people to help lead our region in the years to come. It was great to see such a diverse group of kids with an active interest in their future. Their career interests were just as diverse, from mechanical engineer to coast guard officer to pharmaceutical researcher these students had big plans. We look forward to future visits! Jason Gardner (me) shows the finer points of applying glue to eva foam. Not the most glamorous part of our manufacturing process but a vital link in the chain.

WHAT IS THE ACADEMY OF BUSINESS & FINANCE?
The Academy of Business and Finance is a four-year academic program that gives all students, regardless of career choice, the polish and skills necessary to have the competitive edge in today’s business world. We are affiliated with the National Academy Foundation (NAF).

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL ACADEMY FOUNDATION?
The National Academy Foundation (NAF) is a non-profit organization established in 1989 and based in New York. NAF encourages and supports partnerships between business and education with the stated goal of strengthening the preparedness of the American workforce. The Foundation develops industry-validated curricula, incorporating cutting-edge instructional techniques and provides intensive teacher training and technical support.

OUR MISSION
To begin tomorrow’s journey, today – by providing the business, financial, and leadership skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing business environment.

WHAT MAKES THE ACADEMY UNIQUE?
– The Academy of Business & Finance features:
– Traditional school based learning integrated with frequent exposure to the real-world business environment
– An internship with an area business that also earns school credit
– A curriculum developed in association with business partners
– Frequent presentations, activities and leadership training by community leaders
– Exposure to current technology
– The opportunity to earn college credit through dual-enrollment courses

Learn more here: http://www.melhighbusinessacademy.com/