The Specific Training Empowering Exceptional Learners (STEEL) Program at Ridge Technical College is a two-year comprehensive postsecondary initiative approved by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities (FCSUA) as a Florida Post-Secondary Comprehensive Transition Program (FPCTP). STEEL focuses on real-world skills through a culinary and hospitality curriculum. Students receive hands-on training in all aspects of the food service industry, including food preparation, recipe development, the use of commercial equipment, and food service operations. The program also emphasizes soft skills such as communication, leadership, workplace safety, and critical thinking — ensuring students are ready for both employment and independent living. Students who graduate from the STEEL Program will earn the STEEL Certificate of Completion, obtain industry-recognized credentials in culinary arts and soft skills, and participate in Ridge Technical College’s program completion ceremony.
Courses
As part of the STEEL Program, students take culinary and hospitality classes in a professional kitchen classroom, referred to as a studio, using an inclusive learning model. These classes are taught by Ridge Technical College instructors and supported by the STEEL Program teacher to ensure each student receives the guidance they need to succeed.
Students learn:
- How to safely prepare and cook food
- How to operate commercial kitchen equipment
- Basic nutrition and menu planning
- Restaurant operations and customer service
- Leadership and teamwork in a kitchen setting
These hands-on courses help students build confidence, strengthen job skills, and prepare for meaningful employment in the food service industry.
Life & Career Skills
Students also develop essential life and job-readiness skills, including:
- Budgeting and financial literacy
- Housing and transportation planning
- Self-advocacy and self-determination
- Interpersonal and workplace soft skills
Each student completes the processes to receive services and support from Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), a state agency that provides ongoing employment assistance for individuals with disabilities.
Internship Program
In addition to taking classes, students will participate in unpaid internships in the culinary or hospitality field. Placements are determined by student interests, as identified through interviews, career interest inventories, and assessments. Supported by the STEEL Program and Vocational Rehabilitation staff, these experiences are designed to build confidence, work readiness, and real-world job skills both on and off campus, leading to paid employment for the student upon completion.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Graduated from high school (provide copy of high school transcripts/copy of high school diploma)
- Provide documentation of an intellectual disability (psychological evaluation)
- Demonstrate independence and decision-making ability
- Commit to regular attendance and active participation
Admission is based on multiple criteria and an application process that includes the completion of an in-depth questionnaire and an in-person interview. Applicants will receive a follow-up notification of the admission decision.
Certifications
During the program, students can earn their ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the ServSafe Manager Certification from the National Restaurant Association. In addition, students can become First Aid/CPR certified through the American Red Cross and earn the Florida Ready to Work Soft Skills Credential, issued by the State of Florida and signed by the Governor.
For more information, call (863) 419-3060 or email us at [email protected].