The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) offers convenience to students with the launch of the Institute’s student portal called “MY BTVI.” Students have access to a host of academic and administrative information day or night, with an Internet connection and just a few keystrokes.

The portal allows students to check grades, complete registration forms, view class schedules as well as the schedule for the upcoming semester. Kirsti Sears, Data Administrator at BTVI said, the new system takes information distribution to the next level. It helps students streamline the overall administrative process. The portal allows students to view the master schedule, view and print their class schedules and check their grades.

“This is just a better way to serve our students,” Sears said. “It provides a one-stop solution to do so many things. We feel certain that once everyone is familiar with the portal and begins to use it to its full potential, it will become an integral part of the student experience here at BTVI.”

Sears stressed that information from the Institute, including final grades, will be phased out of being provided at the Registrar Office. She said students must visit the “MY BTVI” portal and create a personal account to access that information. BTVI will also have the ability to send out mass e-mails to students granted that they have provided the Institute with a valid email address.

Those who have questions about the Web Portal and its features or need to set up an account can contact our Data Administrator 502-6379.

The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute ((BTVI) offers high school students the chance to jump start their technical and vocational careers by offering dual enrollment. Over 45 students are participating in the programme at BTVI this fall.

Dual enrollment allows students to take college courses and earn postsecondary credit while completing high school graduation requirements. To enroll in dual enrollment courses, which count for technical and vocational credit, high school students must be in grade 12, have a C or above average on their BJC Transcripts in Math and English, have been granted approval by principal and guidance counselor, and meet all the entrance requirements of BTVI. All courses require C or above scores on assessment exams.

“We have a great partnership with the High Schools, and this new programme will provide a wonderful opportunity for students interested in furthering their education in technical areas of study,” said Sean Adderley, Public Relations and Dual Enrollment Coordinator. This partnership comes at a time when enrollment in technical programmes is “through the roof,” as Adderley terms it. “There’s a level of excitement in our programmes that is contagious – it results from innovative approaches by BTVI management,” he said.

“The dual enrollment programme gives the institution an opportunity to showcase our great faculty, and current students in a way that is so interactive,” said Sean Adderley. “We in turn get to offer service to our students to help them start their technical and vocational education.”

“We feel this programme helps us to build relationships with the high schools as well as the students. BTVI’s education system is about the future. It is about preparing our young people for their lives and careers in the 21st century. Through Dual Enrollment we will give our students an important advantage that will benefit them throughout their careers. This investment in our young people will help to ensure The Bahamas has a highly educated and skilled workforce to face the challenges and opportunities ahead,”Adderley said.

BTVI offers a variety of courses appropriate for high school students, such as Electrical Installation, Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC), Carpentry, Office Administration and Computer Repair. “This program provides a challenge for the students who are academically strong and motivated,” Adderley said. “It can reduce the time to complete a technical and vocational certificate.”

Massage students from The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) Cosmetology Department provided complimentary services to Royal Bank. As part of the course students will complete 64 practicum therapy practical hours. BTVI Massage students must meet the standards set forth by industry and apply their expert knowledge. It is imperative that massage students practice their skills for many hours so they are prepared to administer techniques that are refined to perfection and keep their client’s best health interest in mind.

“BTVI Massage Programme allowed Royal Bank employees the opportunity to experience massage therapy, and most important, was able to give our students real-life experience,” said Mrs. Beneby Taylor, Cosmetology Coordinator. “Today’s growing trend is total wellness, said Mrs. Taylor. Whether they are using massage therapy to improve a medical condition or for stress relief and relaxation, massage is for everyone."

“The students represented BTVI in a professional manner and showed confidence and skill in their massage services,” said Raquel Bethel, Office Manager at BTVI.”

Thirteen massage students participated. They were Nadia Beneby, Shelly Rolle, Jazz Cyril, Donita Collie, Danisha Fowler, Dave Horton, Shuntelle Hurston, Kathleen Jaques, Michelle Lockhart, Miesha Rolle, Pam Rolle, Noralee Newbold and Priya Russel.

The students who participated found it to be a rewarding experience and a great way to utilize their skill while helping others. Mrs. Taylor felt it was a beneficial event for all involved.

Mrs. Taylor said the event was a great learning opportunity and she was hopeful that BTVI would continue to encourage real-life experience to broaden their education outside the classroom.

The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) continues to strengthen its relationships with Martin-Senour Paints and Automotive & Industrial Distributors (AID), as evidenced by the recent donation of a high-tech Tech Base Mixing System for use in the institute's Automotive Programme. The donation, which was facilitated by Juan Cardenas, District Sales Manager, Martin-Senour Company and Marty Smith, Paint Technician at A.I.D., is the latest example of the recent partnerships between BTVI, A.I.D and Martin Senour.

“A.I.D has been a valued partner for many years,” said Don Bain, Head of Department for the Automotive Programme at BTVI. “In particular, Jason Watson, Manager at A.I.D has been there for our programme whenever we needed his advice or assistance.” “They help us with resources and we give them every opportunity to hire our best students.”

On August 26-27th, Martin-Senour Paints will use the institute as a resource for training and providing workshop for paint technicians in the area. "This is a wonderful opportunity for us, too," said Sean Adderley, Public Relations Officer. "Not only has Martin Senour Paints donated a Tech Base Mixing System, but our students and instructors also have the chance to participate in their factory training here on campus. They will be able to learn first-hand the latest in technology from the manufacturers themselves."

With this partnership, students graduating from BTVI's automotive programme will have general knowledge of Martin-Senour Paints brand, which will make them highly employable as prospective technicians.

Companies like A.I.D and Martin-Senour Paints are instrumental in helping us," said Dr. Iva Dahl, Manager/Consultant at BTVI. "And this contribution will be a tremendous help to the students."

  

Over two hundred persons attended an open house recruitment event held on Thursday 13, August 2009 at the British Colonial Hilton.

The substantial turnout reflects the great interest in The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) by members of the community. Participants were able to listen to the Manager/Consultant of BTVI, Dr. Iva Dahl, Faculty and Administrators, speak about what BTVI can offer its students.

The event began with educational presentations from BTVI Head of Department (HOD) for Electronics Trade, Delano Archer, as well as Grant Thornley, HOD for Construction Trade at BTVI. The presentations focused on new programmes being offered at BTVI. In addition, the entire admissions staff was on hand to answer questions and provide prospective students information on the new programmes. Those in attendance also heard from Managing Director, Jean Paul Michielsen of Bahamas Energy Solution (BES). BES is one of the most successful solar energy providers in the Bahamas. Michielsen shared his personal experiences and observations from years of working in the solar energy industry.

"The focus throughout the evening was to provide the guests with accurate information and exceptional service," Dr. Iva Dahl, said. "BTVI is going through a restructuring process and these new programmes are the results of our effort to develop strong curriculam. It was important that the prospective students left thinking that BTVI is a place they can trust to provide sound technical programmes."

The open house was an astonishing success! We were able to sign up more than 100 students for our new programmes,” said Sean Adderley, Public Relations Officer. “At the open house students were able to visit the different booths, ask questions about our new programmes, as well as register on the spot.” "The best part of the day was seeing the prospective students interact with the faculty and administrations," Adderley said. "The look of excitement on the faces of our guests was apparent and it was very satisfying to know that we were contributing to the success of the Institution."

Dr. Dahl said informational gatherings such as this are paramount to BTVI’s continued success. She commended the effort put forth by all involved.

"Open House events are an excellent time to showcase the Institute," Dr. Dahl said. "The Public Relations team did an outstanding job of marketing this event, which contributed to the large number of attendees. Plus, it is very exciting to know that the activities of the Office of Admissions are beginning to see results, as many who attended have now applied for admission. I look forward to many more successful events and seeing our enrollment increase."

 

The Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) will host its Fall Open House on Thursday, August 13 from 7:00pm-9:00pm at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel.

The Open House will provide the public with an up close view of new programmes being offered at BTVI. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and administrators. Special sessions will cover topics such as the admissions process, course information and academic support.

“We also look forward to showcasing the new programme offerings,” stated Dr. Iva Dahl, Manager/Consultant at BTVI. “It’s our way of making the community aware that BTVI is where they can find programmes that are not only practical but relevant.”

The Thursday evening event is open to area residents, employers, community leaders, public school educators and all others interested in getting an up close and personal look into what BTVI has to offer in terms of our new programmes. “Of course, the invitation to come and see us certainly includes prospective students,” said Dr. Dahl.

"We believe these new programmes will have an immediate impact by strengthening our labour force. Thus enhancing our nation’s economy," said Dr. Dahl. “She added that, in the ever-changing global economic landscape, greater emphasis is being placed on skills and its transferability from one job to another, a trait BTVI believes employers are seeking more and more.”

Persons attending the Open House are asked to contact BTVI at 502-6300.

Dr. Iva Dahl
Manager/Consultant

Bahamas Technical & Vocational Institute (BTVI) - is excited to announce the addition of ten new educational programmes. They include Associate of Applied Science programmes in Business Office Technology and Office Administration and certificate programmes in Information Technology Management, Information Technology Security + and Server +, Information Technology Specialist, Electronic & Cable Installation, Electronics Engineering Installers & Repairs, Construction Technology and Solar Energy Technology.

BTVI, offers students a convenient class scheduling, allowing students to balance life, work, and coursework as they pursue a higher education.

"By adding these much sought-after programmes to our already rich curriculum, we are better equipped to give students the tools they need to succeed in existing and emerging occupations," says Sean Adderley, BTVI Public Relations Officer. "We strongly believe that by offering unique education opportunities at our school, BTVI will be able to provide the community with graduates who possess the skills and knowledge needed to help the Bahamas continue to prosper."

BTVI also offers certificate programmes in Masonry, Tiling, Welding, Plumbing, Electrical, Air Condition & Refrigeration, Carpentry, Auto Mechanic and Collision, Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Esthetics, Barbering, Fashion Design, Computer Technician and Cisco Networking.

For more information about the school's new programmes, visit BTVI Websiteor call 502-6300.