Preparing for Career Readiness: Vocational Students in RTC-KPVTC in Region XI in Focus

This study explored the lived experiences of vocational students as they prepared for career readiness, focusing on their challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights. While vocational education equips students with technical skills, many still face uncertainties about their employability and transition to the workforce. A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to deeply understand the perspectives of vocational students. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with selected students enrolled in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) program at the Regional Training Center Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center in Davao City. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-step framework was used to identify meaningful themes from the interview data. The study revealed six main experience themes: Gaining Confidence Through Small Wins, Finding Motivation in Peer and Mentor Relationships, Feeling Anxious but Hopeful About the Future, Struggling to Bridge Theory and Practice, Managing Pressure from Family and Finances, and Adapting Despite Limited Resources. Coping themes included Seeking Reassurance and Setting Small Goals, Practicing Beyond the Classroom, Time Management and Prioritizing Commitments, and Resourcefulness and Peer Collaboration. Students shared key insights, highlighting that Practical Experience Matters Most, Support Systems Make a Difference, Adaptability Is a Key to Success, and Career Preparation Goes Beyond Technical Skills. The findings suggest the need for vocational programs to strengthen practical training, provide emotional and social support, and integrate soft skills development.