Dedicated to helping deserving young people prepare for meaningful and economically advantageous careers, the SAVE program (Scholarships for Adult Vocational Excellence) offers students the opportunity to learn a technical skill by providing funding for tuition. SAVE was founded in 1987 by Frances Stavros to assist students who want to get their lives back on track and renew their dedication to career goals. This successful program is designed to encourage students who have financial need to pursue their education in a vocational technical career, followed by career training and job placement.

SAVE students are first enrolled at one of two Pinellas Technical Education Centers from a choice of approximately 25 training programs. During the career study portion of the program, students are placed in internships where they can gain practical experience in their chosen fields. Following completion of their career education, SAVE counselors work closely with the students to help facilitate their easy transition into the workplace with job placement and individual counseling. Specific disciplines (such as automotive and nursing) can cost up to $5,000 depending on the student’s career choice; however, the average cost for tuition, books, supplies and uniforms is $2,500.

Career training choices include courses in automotive technology, nursing, electronics, welding, culinary arts, computer repair, commercial art and many other areas of study. In addition to the practical components of the program, SAVE students meet regularly to explore topics such as work ethic, developing self-motivation and learning to set goals. All students receive motivational encouragement and guidance from SAVE counselors.

• 82% of SAVE graduates found employment in their chosen careers, compared to 40% of college and university graduates.
• Since 1987, more than 2,800 young adults have participated.