Highlights
Columbus Chamber and ESCCO Unite for Second Annual Careers 2 Classrooms Educator Workforce Boot Camp
Source: https://columbus.org/
This summer, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio collaborated on the second Careers 2 Classrooms Educator Workforce Boot Camp. Sponsored by AT&T, Columbia Gas of Ohio, and the Ingram White Castle Foundation through the Columbus Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the initiative engaged 48 teachers and administrators from 17 school districts. The program aimed to bridge education and business sectors, providing immersive experiences to educators to enhance students’ understanding of diverse career opportunities beyond traditional four-year degrees.
- In June, educators participated in a week-long program visiting seven different employers across various sectors in the Columbus region. Each employer, including Ohio Contractor’s Association (Construction), Columbia Gas of Ohio/NiSource (Energy), OSU Wexner Medical Center and OhioHealth (Healthcare), Columbus Steel and Engineered Profiles (Modern Manufacturing), CGI and Perry ProTech (Information Technology), Labcorp and Andelyn (Bioscience), and G&J Pepsi and FST (Supply Chain & Logistics), provided insights into their industries, showcasing job roles and talent development programs.
- Following their visits to seven different employers across various sectors in the Columbus region, participants in the program were tasked with developing lesson plans or projects to share their learning with students. They presented their ideas at COSI to representatives from the visited companies, school administrators, and community partners. Proposed projects included expanded employer partnerships, problem-based learning challenges, and student-led marketing campaigns. Participants earned continuing education credits from Ashland University for their efforts in integrating industry insights into education.
- Teachers play a crucial role as credible influencers who can connect students with existing opportunities in Ohio’s business community. To achieve this, teachers need support to understand essential career skills and current employer needs, enabling them to guide students effectively towards relevant training programs and employment opportunities to make informed choices.
- The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, established in 1884, is a nonprofit organization serving over 2,300 businesses. It focuses on fostering prosperity and growth in the Columbus Region through connections, resources, and advocacy. Serving as the central hub of the region’s business community, the Chamber promotes collaboration among businesses to enhance economic opportunities and create a vibrant business environment. Their mission is to eliminate barriers to prosperity and make the Columbus Region an outstanding business destination. More information can be found at https://columbus.org/.
Image Source: https://columbus.org/
