Business Details
Career-Technical Education Programs in Indianapolis
J Everett Light Career Center has been dedicated to transforming educational experiences for high school students since its founding. Our mission focuses on bridging academic theory with practical application through Career-Technical Education (CTE) programs that emphasize hands-on learning and industry relevance. With over 20 specialized programs, we prepare students for both college and career pathways by integrating state-of-the-art technology, rigorous academic standards, and real-world work experiences. Our partnerships with local businesses and school districts across Marion, Hamilton, and Boone counties enable students to earn industry certifications, dual college credits, and develop essential employability skills.Through work-based learning opportunities like our student-run Light Caf and clinical placements, we cultivate technical proficiency and leadership capabilities. Our experienced team, including certified instructors and industry professionals, maintains a 96% graduation rate while helping students meet Indiana's graduation pathways and academic honors requirements. We remain committed to innovation in career education while maintaining strict compliance with non-discrimination policies and educational equity standards.
Services
CTE Programs
Dual Credit Courses
Industry Certifications
Work-Based Learning
Career Guidance
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ CTE programs with hands-on, real-world learning experiences
- Our students average a 96% graduation rate, exceeding state averages
- 93% of concentrators earn industry-recognized certifications
- We provide work-based learning opportunities with local businesses
- Our programs help meet Indiana's graduation pathway requirements
What people say
Hands-on learning
Industry certifications
Confidence building
Career preparation
Work experience
Services
Culinary Arts Program
Our student-run Light Caf provides real-world restaurant experience with scratch cooking and international cuisine preparation. Students learn menu development, food service operations, and hospitality management through daily operations open to the public. The program emphasizes industry certifications and workforce readiness for culinary careers.
Health Careers Program
Clinical placements in senior care facilities prepare students for healthcare careers through hands-on patient care experience. The program includes CNA preparation, medical assisting training, and partnerships with healthcare providers to develop practical skills and industry certifications for future healthcare professionals.
Automotive Service Program
Students gain technical expertise in automotive diagnostics and repair through hands-on vehicle maintenance training. The program develops problem-solving skills and mechanical knowledge while preparing students for industry certifications and careers in automotive service and repair industries.
Law Enforcement Program
This program offers practical law enforcement experience through simulated scenarios and community partnerships. Students develop leadership skills, learn legal procedures, and gain foundational knowledge for careers in public safety and criminal justice professions.
Medical Assisting Program
Students receive comprehensive medical assisting training with clinical rotations and patient care experience. The program prepares graduates for certification exams and careers in medical offices, clinics, and healthcare facilities through hands-on patient interaction and technical skill development.
People
Brian Funk
Director
Brian Funk leads J Everett Light Career Center with 18 years of CTE administration experience. He expanded dual credit opportunities and industry partnerships while serving as Assistant Director from 2006-2024. Holds degrees in Industrial Technology Education and Educational Leadership from Ball State University and Indiana Wesleyan University.
Desmond Jones
Assistant Director
Desmond Jones serves as Assistant Director overseeing program development and instructional quality at JELCC. He brings extensive experience in career education administration and curriculum development for workforce-ready programs.
Carrie Dodd
Supervisor of Student Services
Carrie Dodd manages student services operations at JELCC with focus on academic support and career counseling. She coordinates student success initiatives and maintains partnerships with sending school districts.
Nicole Cooper
Supervisor of Health Services
Nicole Cooper oversees health science programs and clinical training placements. She ensures healthcare education programs meet industry standards and prepares students for medical certifications and careers.
Diane Steffey
Supervisor of Program Development
Diane Steffey leads program development initiatives at JELCC, focusing on curriculum innovation and industry partnership expansion. She maintains connections with business sectors to align programs with workforce needs.
Questions
How do I enroll in JELCC programs?
Students should contact their school counselor to request enrollment in JELCC programs during course registration. Applications are processed through participating high schools.
What CTE programs are available?
We offer 20+ programs including Culinary Arts, Health Careers, Automotive Service, Law Enforcement, and Medical Assisting with industry certifications and college credit options.
Do programs offer college credits?
Yes, 80% of eligible CTE programs provide college dual credit opportunities through partnerships with higher education institutions.
Are industry certifications available?
93% of concentrators earn industry-recognized certifications that enhance college applications and career prospects.
How does work-based learning work?
Students participate in clinical placements, internships, and real-world experiences like our student-run Light Café to apply skills in professional settings.
What community partnerships exist?
We collaborate with local businesses, healthcare providers, and industry leaders to ensure curriculum relevance and create employment pathways for graduates.
