Do You Want to Be a "Neurocloud Engineer"? How About a "Virtual Habitat Designer"?

Baldwin High School recently hosted a unique competition based on futuristic thinking. The inaugural Future Careers Challenge marks a significant step in Baldwin UFSD’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving world.

The program featured a Shark Tank-style presentation where students present their unique career concepts that do not yet exist to a panel of judges. Among the imaginative ideas were roles like a Neurocloud Engineer and a Virtual Habitat Designer, reflecting the students' forward-thinking approach and creativity. The project, which falls under School2Career, is another example of the district's dedication to integrating real-world learning and hands-on career experiences into its curriculum.

The featured panel of judges included District Superintendent Dr. Shari Camhi, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Anthony Mignella, New York Legislator Debra Mulè, and Richard Bernato, a futurist and professor at St. John’s University. The judges evaluated the students' innovative ideas and ultimately picked a winner based on a rubric. While the judges were impressed by all of the team's innovative ideas and the depth of their vision for the future, only one winning team was chosen by them.

The winners of the event, the "Q Defenders," a profession that focuses on cybersecurity optics, was recognized by Debra Mulè with a certificate for their outstanding concept. In addition, the “Trend-Setter Award”, which was voted on by students, went to Virtual Sports. Other teams included Project ARES, NeuroCloud Engineer, The Curriculum Collective, AI Healthcare Lawyer, Information Security Analyst, Nano Ethics Consultant, and Planetwise.  

“I am incredibly proud of Baldwin High School's students for their innovative thinking and bold vision for the future,” said Dr. Gabriella Franza, assistant director of instructional programs. “This event showcases our commitment to providing real-world learning experiences that prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s careers.”

The work for this curriculum began last year as part of Baldwin 2035. Dr. Franza along with the business teachers developed a two-week unit, where students were taught how to think like a “futurist”—a person who studies the future and makes predictions about it based on current trends.    

The Future Careers Challenge not only celebrated student talent but underscored the district's mission to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.