As we transition into the new school year, we’re excited to announce the return of the Middle School Speakers Bureau! This initiative, led by the Chamber’s Workforce Development Task Force in partnership with Union County Public Schools (UCPS), is designed to introduce middle school students to the vast career opportunities available in trades and manufacturing, and we need your help!
Why middle school?
We believe it’s crucial to reach students before they make those important decisions about high school classes that could shape their future career paths. By exposing them early to the possibilities in these industries, we aim to spark interest and guide them toward fulfilling and lucrative careers.
How the Program Works:
For those unfamiliar with the Middle School Speakers Bureau, here’s a quick rundown:
- » Industry Leaders in the Classroom: Local businesses and industry leaders are invited to participate by sending employees to take over classrooms for the day. These speakers deliver engaging presentations that cover essential information about their company, industry, career progression, and potential earnings.
- » Hands-On Learning: To ensure the information resonates with students, each speaker includes a hands-on activity related to their industry. This practical experience not only makes the session more engaging but also helps students visualize themselves in these roles.
- » Speaker Training: The Workforce Development Task Force provides a training session for all speakers to ensure they are well-prepared to captivate and inform their young audience.
Last year, the impact was clear: 94% of over 1,000 students surveyed reported learning new information about the companies and career opportunities presented. This positive feedback is exactly why we’re so passionate about this program—it’s all about building a future pipeline of skilled workers.
Partnerships with Local Schools:
This year, we are proud to partner with four middle schools: East Union Middle School, Parkwood Middle School, Porter Ridge Middle School, and Sun Valley Middle School.
Looking Ahead:
As we look forward to another successful year, we’re excited to see the impact of the Middle School Speakers Bureau on the students in our community. By connecting them with local businesses and industry leaders, we’re not only opening their eyes to new possibilities but also helping to ensure a strong, skilled workforce for the future.
Stay tuned for updates on this initiative, and if your business is interested in participating, we’d love to hear from you. We have sessions planned at the schools throughout the 2024-2025 year. We also have an upcoming training September 18, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the Chamber. We require all speakers to attend that training. Reach out to us at info@unioncountycoc.com to learn more and sign up for a session.
Last modified: August 30, 2024
