Innovative Paths to Workforce Success

About the Guest:
Kyle Watts is a Work-Based Learning Liaison at Millstream Career Center, where he is dedicated to creating innovative pathways for high school juniors and seniors to engage with local industries. Kyle has been pivotal in transforming traditional job fairs into more effective experiences that better prepare students for the workforce.
Episode Summary:

In this episode of Chamber Amplified from the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, host Doug Jenkins sits down with Kyle Watts from Millstream Career Center to explore a modern approach to workforce development that moves beyond traditional job fairs. As industries seek effective ways to engage younger demographics, Kyle shares his experiences that have changed how students interact with potential employers. This conversation offers perspectives on how businesses can develop tailored internship and job shadowing programs to tap into the potential of high school juniors and seniors.

The discussion delves into why conventional job fairs often fall short and how personalized, hands-on learning experiences can provide meaningful connections between students and employers. Kyle discusses the vital role of soft skills and the importance of having clear career pathways for young employees. Doug and Kyle also highlight how businesses can maximize their recruitment efforts by offering dip-your-toe-in-the-water experiences that build confidence and effectively introduce high schoolers to real-world career opportunities.
Key Takeaways:

• Traditional job fairs are becoming less effective in engaging high school students, highlighting the need for more personalized and interactive approaches.
• Conducting small, focused job shadowing or internship experiences can lead to higher employment acceptance rates among students.
• Businesses should clearly outline career pathways and provide hands-on training to make their opportunities more appealing to young job seekers.
• Creating an open and communicative environment where students feel comfortable asking for help fosters better learning and engagement.
• Both educational institutions and businesses share the responsibility of teaching soft skills to prepare students for the workforce.

Music and sound effects obtained from https://www.zapsplat.com