Give Work A Chance: Preparing Workers Early

CTE students at North Davidson Middle School learn about advanced manufacturing jobs.
{Contributed photo/Mandy Coppley} 

With the dire need for qualified advanced manufacturing workers, our education system requires a complete makeover to grow the volume of qualified talent so new and old industries can respond to growth opportunities. Sadly, students are not getting adequate support to make informed decisions for their future career paths. Too many leave with high school degrees but are confused as to what direction their careers should be, because they were not adequately prepared and exposed to options during school. 

Very rarely do students get into the workforce and see what jobs are out there. Companies have been isolating themselves for decades due to liability issues and fear of loss of proprietary information. As a result, possible sharp candidates do not even consider pursuing careers locally and ones who are far from ready to assume any of the functions companies need performed.

Understandably, many schools don't want to invest in field trips because of fuel and personnel costs. Most companies are quick to criticize schools but slow to go help fix them. 

Employers are encouraged to meet with students starting in the sixth grade and start showing them what they are learning in school can be applied to their future. Employers will say they haven’t the time but having lunch with students once a week could pay dividends in growing local talent that will be prepared for their future employment. 

Employers would be well advised to allow students to work with advanced technologies now, so they become comfortable, curious and excited about working at area companies in the future. Recruiting early and often will help develop the local talent and prepare them for future leadership roles. We must become more creative and bust the silos that inhibit performance and reduce confusion of youths so they can contribute to the state's growth performance.