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Article: Student Spotlight Series

Student Spotlight Series

Student Spotlight Series: Turning Passion into Profession, meet Charlize Cannon Bakery and Pastry Student

At Lorain County JVS, we pride ourselves on cultivating an educational environment where students not only develop expertise in their chosen fields, but emerge as confident, workforce-ready individuals prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities. This month, we’re thrilled to highlight Charlize Cannon, Bakery and Pastry Arts student whose journey exemplifies the transformative power of career-technical education.

Meet Charlize Cannon
Charlize Cannon, a high school senior from Elyria High School, joined Lorain County JVS as a sophomore through the Career Connections Academy. Now in the Bakery and Pastry Arts program, Charlize has turned her passion for baking into a pathway toward professional success. Her journey underscores the importance of early exposure to career exploration and hands-on learning opportunities.


Why LCJVS and Bakery and Pastry Arts?
“I like to get a head start on where I’m going,” Charlize shared. Initially exploring various labs, including Culinary Arts and Web Graphic and Design, she ultimately found her calling in baking. “Baking puts me in the zone,” she said, adding that her famous brownies and signature cherry pie are always in demand among family and friends. This personal passion aligned perfectly with the rigorous training and industry-relevant skills offered in the Bakery and Pastry Arts program at LCJVS.

The Impact of LCJVS
Charlize’s experience at LCJVS has been transformative. Beyond developing her baking skills, she has grown as a leader and mentor within the program. “Attending LCJVS made me more confident, more professional, and a leader,” she said. “These are skills that I can take with me after I graduate.” Charlize’s doesn’t hesitate to help her fellow classmates, or mentor freshmen when they are in lab, which is preparing her to excel in a professional setting.

Support from Instructors
The dedication and expertise of LCJVS instructors give students an edge not only in their chosen field, but in their everyday lives. For Charlize, Chef Moore has been an instrumental figure. “Chef Moore helped me improve my time management skills and how to handle being a perfectionist,” Charlize explained. “I don’t stress like I used to.”

Encouraged by Chef Moore, Charlize has also embraced new challenges, including competitions. Her recent participation in the American Culinary Federation Local Showcase competition resulted in a silver medal. “The experience was great, and I was completely calm!”

Advice for Prospective Students
Charlize encourages incoming students to make the most of the opportunities at LCJVS. “Ask questions, explore, and meet new people,” she advised. She also emphasized the importance of respecting instructors, who are deeply invested in student success. Her final piece of advice? “Have fun!”


A Broader Impact: LCJVS and the Economy
Charlize’s story highlights the critical role of career-technical education in fostering workforce readiness. Programs like Bakery and Pastry Arts equip students with industry-relevant skills while instilling professionalism, adaptability, and leadership qualities. This comprehensive preparation ensures that LCJVS graduates are not only ready to excel in their careers but also poised to contribute to the economic vitality of the region. By empowering students like Charlize to pursue their passions and develop in-demand skills, LCJVS supports local industries and strengthens the broader economy.

View Charlize in action!


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The Lorain County Joint Vocational School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs and activities, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. © 2025. The Lorain County Joint Vocational School District. All Rights Reserved.