Inside NOCE’s Unlock Your Future’ Event: Where Inspiration Meets Opportunity
At North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE), education goes far beyond the classroom—it becomes a catalyst for transformation. On April 29, 2025, NOCE’s Unlock Your Futureevent brought this mission to life in the most powerful way, uniting students, educators, and industry professionals in a shared celebration of resilience, self-belief, and opportunity.
What began as a career panel quickly evolved into something far more impactful: a forum where real-world success stories met student ambition. Organized by NOCE’s Career Technical Education (CTE) team, the event created a dynamic space where future talent and industry leaders connected meaningfully.
The panel featured powerhouse professionals from the fields of Information Technology, Education, and Business, each offering raw, heartfelt accounts of their paths—not as polished success stories, but as deeply personal narratives of perseverance and purpose.
The event wasn’t about polished résumés—it was about raw, authentic stories that inspired and motivated. John Gafford, a technology accessibility advocate legally blind since childhood, shared how he overcame systemic barriers and built a thriving IT career. His mantra—“Tell me what I can’t do, and I’ll show you what I can”—struck a chord with students, reminding everyone that potential doesn’t always come in traditional packaging.
Equally impactful was Jessica Payne, an IT Director, educator, and CEO who has carved out a legacy in the male-dominated world of tech. With over two decades of experience and a passion for bridging the digital divide, Jessica is more than a tech expert—she’s a mentor, a leader, and a fierce advocate for equity in technology. Jessica’s guiding belief, “Education is only one step to success, but it’s a step you must take to reach the top” – inspired students to take their next leap.
These stories didn’t just resonate—they mobilized. Students asked questions, shared their own dreams, and left with renewed confidence. And that’s exactly why NOCE invites employers like you to be part of this movement.
Why Partner with NOCE?
By working with NOCE, you’re not just filling talent pipelines—you’re shaping them. NOCE students come ready to grow, work, and contribute—with lived experience, diverse perspectives, and the drive to succeed. When you partner with us, you help:
• Develop a workforce rooted in perseverance, diversity, and adaptability
• Support work-based learning and career exploration opportunities
• Build stronger community ties and expand your company’s impact
• Engage in meaningful storytelling that connects purpose with profession
Unlock Your Future was not a one-time event—it was a preview of what’s possible when education and industry align. Together, we can create a talent ecosystem that doesn’t just meet today’s needs but builds tomorrow’s leaders.
Let’s Build the Future Together.
We’re actively seeking employers to:
• Speak at upcoming events
• Host internships or job shadowing
• Offer site tours or mentorship
• Join NOCE’s employer network to co-create workforce solutions
Contact Denise Mora at careerhelp@noce.edu to explore ways your organization can get involved.
Inspire. Invest. Impact.
Partner with NOCE and help unlock what’s possible.
Nelli Greenspan, M.A. driving student success through partnerships as NOCE’s Work-Based Learning Coordinator