Career and Technical Education (CTE) of St. Johns County

Student Spotlight: Patrick Neal – Excelling in Biotechnology, Leadership, and Beyond

At Ponte Vedra High School, the Biotechnology and Medical Research Academy has a reputation for preparing students to be future leaders in science, healthcare, and technology. Among its standout students, Patrick Neal has built an extraordinary record of achievement—balancing academic excellence, career-focused skills, and leadership across multiple Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs).

Patrick is a dedicated member of HOSA–Future Health Professionals, where he has showcased his knowledge of laboratory science. Competing against the top students across Florida, Patrick placed second in the state in Clinical Laboratory Science, an event that demands mastery of laboratory procedures, medical knowledge, and precision in problem-solving. His success demonstrates both his technical skill and his passion for biotechnology.

Patrick’s talents don’t stop there. He represented Ponte Vedra High School at the 2025 National Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Conference, placing third in his category.  This balance of STEM and business knowledge sets Patrick apart as a versatile student who understands that innovation often thrives at the intersection of disciplines.

Patrick is also active in the Information Technology Academy’s CTSO, where he uses skills in coding, problem-solving, and digital literacy. His teamwork and technical expertise has helped the school’s robotics team advance all the way to national competition. His involvement highlights his commitment to collaboration and his curiosity for exploring new areas of technology.

Through all of these experiences, Patrick Neal exemplifies what it means to be a student leader in today’s world. He is not only preparing for a future career in biotechnology but also developing the leadership, adaptability, and interdisciplinary skills that will serve him in any path he chooses.

Patrick’s journey is an inspiration to his peers and a shining example of how Career Academies and CTSOs open doors for students to explore, compete, and succeed on a national stage.