Career Partners began offering Job Shadowing in 2001, giving students an opportunity to spend time alongside local professionals and experience a workday in a career field they were interested in exploring.
For students beginning to consider their futures, these experiences provided a valuable look beyond the classroom. A career that may have existed only as an idea became more tangible when a student could observe a professional at work, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of the skills and responsibilities involved.
Over the years, Career Partners continued to find new ways to provide students with meaningful career exploration experiences. One example was a two-year mentorship program with students in CTEC’s Culinary Arts program. The program created a unique exchange between students and local professionals, with students sharing their culinary knowledge and skills with their mentors through hands-on experiences such as baking and decorating.
While individual programs and opportunities have changed over time, Career Exploration remains an important part of Career Partners’ work. Today, programs such as Healthcare Day and Manufacturing & Construction Day continue the original goal of helping students experience careers firsthand, connect with local professionals, and discover opportunities available within their own community.
