Frequently asked questions about vocational classes at GILA

What are the vocational courses offered at GILA?

Students are offered courses in automotive technology, aviation, cosmetology, and culinary arts.

GILA has the only high school aviation program in the United States which allows students to earn their private pilot’s license.

In addition to these courses, there are vocational and career-related classes in woodworking, welding, small engine repair, web page design, and journalism.

What are the requirements for taking vocational courses at GILA?

Any student with an interest in the subject may ask to start the courses. Typically, a student enters the program during his or her sophomore year and receives three years of instruction.

What can students expect in the aviation program?

Aviation courses are taught by Noel Frisbie, a former Air Force lieutenant colonel who has been flying for 41 years. He arrived at GILA in 2008.

Students in the aviation program graduate with a private pilot’s license. The school owns a Cessna 150 and a Cessna 172, as well as a Frasca flight simulator. Students take three year-long private pilot ground school classes in basic, advanced, and flight instruction at GILA. Mr. Frisbie also teaches flight classes for adults through the University of Alaska – Fairbanks.

What can students expect in the cosmetology program?

 
Cosmetology courses are taught by Jenna Lee, a hairstylist and instructor, licensed by the state of Alaska. She moved to Galena from Bowling Green, Kentucky in August 2008. She has been a hairstylist for four years and received her instructors license from the GILA cosmetology program in May 2009.

Students in the cosmetology program graduate with a license to practice cosmetology in the state of Alaska. The student has to complete 1,650 hours of education in the program to obtain the license. In addition, students can certify themselves in a fields of skin care, manicure, barbering, and hairstyling.

What can students expect in the automotive program?

Automotive courses are taught by Steve Hoffine, who is certified by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence. Mr. Hoffine arrived in Galena in 2007 after four years as an automotive technology instructor at the Wyoming Technical Institute in Laramie, Wyo.

Students attending GILA are offered five courses in automotive technology. GILA is working towards obtaining certification for students through the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation in the 2009-2010 school year.

What can students expect in the culinary arts program?

Culinary arts courses are taught by Rand Rosecrans.  Mr. Rosecrans and his wife Suzette began their service to the school district in 1998 when they moved to Galena from Homer. He has worked in fine dining establishments, lodges, private clubs, owned and operated a catering service and worked on the North Slope.

Students in the culinary arts program can receive on-the-job training through our in-house culinary votech/work study program, Food Safety Manager’s certification, and training in Pro-Start, a nationally recognized food service training program.