ORANGE — LaunchSpace, the nonprofit workshop on the Orange Innovation Center’s third floor, has announced the graduation of 17 students from its Creative Sector Pathway Program (CSPP), which concluded a cohort on Aug. 14.

The program, for people ages 16 to 24, aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to excel in creative industries. Graduates contribute to the creative sector as they move into apprenticeships with creative sector mentors. Though it was not a traditional cap-and-gown ceremony, graduates received recognition and certificates for their hard work.

“It was really, really special,” said Brianna Drohen, LaunchSpace’s president, CEO and co-founder. “I’m really looking forward to the next one.”

Enrollment is now open for the Creative Sector Pathway Program’s next 36-week cohort, with the first class slated for Sept. 18. In partnership with Greenfield Community College, NewVue Communities and Workers Credit Union, the curriculum is developed to provide hands-on experience and real-world applications, ensuring that participants are prepared for careers in the creative sector and as entrepreneurs.

“It’s a program I wish was around when I was a student at Mahar. I would have elected into it,” Drohen said, adding that the program satisfies the required community service hours of the students enrolled in it.

Students meet on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for educational programming and have open access during studio hours to work in the 13,000-square-foot facility on 2D to 3D design, pottery, woodworking, leather, textiles, jewelry, stained glass, electronics and digital fabrication.

During the training and discovery phase, students work to master specific shops while being encouraged to pursue their passion and find their unique voice. Woven into each session are the practical skills needed to forge a path from idea to action, including entrepreneurial thinking, developing a vision, recognizing opportunities, financial literacy, building a brand and the importance of community.

The Creative Sector Pathway Program includes a badge and certificate system. Once certification is obtained, students are connected with apprenticeship opportunities to learn and work independently outside of class time in the space with their mentor. Certification and badges can be shared with employers or on college applications.

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the Creative Sector Pathway Program should contact Program Membership Director Sid Nordstrom at sid@launchspace-orange.com or visit launchspace-orange.com/creative-sector-pathway. Applications are accepted at the same link.

LaunchSpace is also recruiting people ages 16 to 24 for paid apprenticeships in the makerspace. These apprenticeships offer the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, gain hands-on experience and earn money while learning. Anyone who is interested in an apprenticeship can contact Program Coordinator Erica Goulding at erica@launchspace-orange.com.