HSHT Students Explore Career Opportunities at Dave & Buster’s Gainesville

Posted on June 25, 2026 by CIL Podcast Team

Career exploration comes to life when students have the opportunity to learn directly from local employers. Recently, students from the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida’s High School High Tech (HSHT) programs in Alachua, Levy, Marion, and Putnam counties participated in an engaging behind-the-scenes career exploration experience at Dave & Buster’s Gainesville.

Throughout the visit, students gained valuable insight into what it takes to operate a large entertainment and dining venue. Team members shared how different departments work together to create a positive guest experience, highlighting careers in customer service, food operations, game management, leadership, and business operations.

The experience also introduced students to the professional skills that employers value across every industry. Students discussed workplace expectations, effective communication, teamwork, leadership, and the importance of professionalism while exploring how these skills translate into real-world employment opportunities.

In addition to learning about careers in hospitality and entertainment, students had the chance to ask questions, hear firsthand experiences from employees, and better understand the variety of career pathways available to young adults entering the workforce.

Experiences like this are an important part of the High School High Tech program, helping students connect classroom learning with real-world careers while building confidence as they prepare for future employment.

The Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida extends a sincere thank you to the Dave & Buster’s Gainesville team for welcoming our students and providing an engaging, informative, and memorable career exploration experience. We also thank The Able Trust for its continued support of the High School High Tech program and its commitment to expanding career opportunities for Florida’s students with disabilities.

Through partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, High School High Tech continues to empower students to explore their interests, develop workplace skills, and build meaningful pathways toward successful, independent futures.

ID: A group of High School High Tech (HSHT) students from Alachua, Levy, Marion, and Putnam counties stand together outside the entrance of Dave & Buster's Gainesville during a career exploration visit. The large Dave & Buster's sign is prominently displayed above the group, with one staff member standing in the doorway behind them, raising both arms in a welcoming gesture. The image includes an overlay titled "HSHT Students Explore Career Opportunities," with text describing the students' behind-the-scenes experience learning about careers in the hospitality and entertainment industry.
ID: High School High Tech (HSHT) students sit around a table inside Dave & Buster's Gainesville, listening as a staff member shares insights about careers in the hospitality and entertainment industry. Menus and promotional materials are spread across the table while the discussion focuses on workplace expectations, communication, teamwork, and the variety of career opportunities available within the business. Multiple televisions and the restaurant's lively atmosphere can be seen in the background.