Governor Morehead School students get barista training in Wake Tech program

Now the students are proving they can overcome obstacles. For instance, knowing when steamed milk is ready to add to coffee without seeing the tell-tale signs. Instead, they carefully listen for the sound of "ripping paper."

A Wake Tech program teamed up with visually impaired students from the Governor Morehead School for a six-week program. Wake Tech teacher Charlie Webb said, "It’s been really amazing just to see them progress and really just be excited about coming to class every day."

Webb spent 23 years serving up coffee beverages. Now he trains students how to succeed despite some visual limitations. Braille labels help 18 year old Dylan McCleary find the right buttons to press to fill a small or larger cup of java.

Sameer Pawa, director of Wake Tech Hospitality Training, said, "What we have seen is incredible. I mean, they have figured it out."

The students find their best fit in the process, including service with a smile. "Actually I think can learn from them," said Matt Gross, who with his wife Collen, own Nora Coffee in Raleigh. They came to see the students in action.

He said, "I thought it was great that they were thinking about it as a business, as an interaction and not just how do I make a cup of coffee."

Colleen Gross added, "They found something that’s interesting to them. It’s a passion for them and that’s 90% of the game."

As they finished the training program, the group celebrated their accomplishments. They are now ready to find their place in the hospitality industry.

Student Max Ocasio said, "I don’t know what else is in store, but whatever it is, I’m ready for it."

Student Dylan McCleary has a clear plan in mind. He said, "I’m hoping I can work at Scooters Cafe in my small hometown of Cherryville."

The students and their teachers hope employers recognize their potential and recognize their will to succeed. "The restaurant industry is struggling for good quality help. Here it is, so give them an opportunity," said Pawa.

Some of the Governor Morehead School students are part of the school’s entrepreneurship program with the hope that they may even own and operate their own cafe business.

The Governor Morehead School also plans to have their own cafe where students can practice those skills.