The Tribune

“BTVI is more than just a workplace for me. It’s a place where we help build a stronger community and contribute to a better Bahamas through education and empowerment.”

These are the words of Kayla Johnson, Admissions Officer at Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), Grand Bahama Branch Campus.

Ms Johnson’s comments come on the heels of BTVI becoming the first higher education institution in The Bahamas and the region to receive international accreditation with the Council on Occupational Education (COE). BTVI is also seeking accreditation with the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NAECOB).

Ms. Johnson plays a key role in the admission of students. An employee of 12 years, her work with BTVI began at the New Providence Main Campus in 2013. Three years later, she transferred to the Grand Bahama Branch Campus, serving there for the past nine years.

Clearly distinguishing herself among employees at the BTVI Grand Bahama Branch Campus, Ms. Johnson won the 2019 Employee Excellence Award and Staff Award of Excellence in 2022 and 2025. Few people can boast of winning the top employee award on multiple occasions.

“When you truly enjoy what you do, you don’t seek recognition or wonder if others notice your efforts. Instead, you work with humility, knowing that your dedication speaks for itself. Over time, your passion can inspire colleagues, encouraging them to stay motivated and follow your example,” said Ms. Johnson.

Ms. Johnson said the secret sauce for her multiple awards has been good customer service.

“Always have the passion to provide exemplary service, not only to your primary customers—the students—but also by being a supportive team player to your colleagues. Excellence comes from serving with heart and working together with purpose,” she stated.

Acknowledging the work of her Admissions teammates in helping to grow student numbers year after year, Ms. Johnson noted the importance of building meaningful relationships.

“You have to genuinely love working with people. Also, when it comes to recruiting, it’s essential to understand your target audience; knowing who they are, what they need and how best to connect with them makes all the difference,” stated Ms. Johnson.

BTVI currently has 3,048 students, not including customised programmes and Professional Development Courses, across its seven sites with 576 in Grand Bahama.

“I find great fulfillment in recruiting students and supporting them throughout their entire journey at BTVI. Knowing that I’ve played a meaningful role in their educational and personal development is both rewarding and motivating,” she said.

Additionally, Ms. Johnson challenges outdated perceptions about technical and vocational education. Over a decade in the field has revealed the transformative impact of skills-based learning not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

“Working at a technical institution has shaped my perspective and helped dispel the myth that technical education is only for students who are not academically inclined. At BTVI, our mission is to provide learning opportunities that empower students to become globally competitive and economically independent,” she stated.