Business and Relocation Guide 2009 - (Page 24) BUSINESS & ECONOMIC TRENDS Bridge to the Future Connecting students with employers In an effort to prepare for this area’s future workforce needs, the Brainerd Lakes Chamber has coordinated the formation of the Bridges Career Academies and Workplace Connection, an innovative partnership among school districts, Central Lakes College, area businesses, and the Chamber. This unique program is designed to connect business and education to ensure a viable workforce for the future. Courses in the Bridges Career Academies focus on highdemand, high-pay careers available here in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Students take part in three or four courses scheduled over a twoyear period, for which they receive dual high school and college credit. These courses are available to all students who qualify, limited only by class size. For the 2008–09 school year, Career Academies include classes in applied engineering, health sciences, manufacturing technology, business and administration, and nursing. The Chamber manages the Bridges Workplace Connection, according to Mary Gottsch, project director. This is the “onestop intermediary” for businesses, students, parents, and educators wanting to participate in the work-based learning activities offered. Students attend a group shadow at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center where they hear from a panel of hospital employees before getting hands-on experience with them. Research confirms that a workplace connection creates relevance, guides career and educational goals, and connects regional employers with graduates. The Bridges Workplace Connection schedules services such as internships, job shadowing, business tours, and career days. “The goal is to keep the education in tune with what’s happening in the job market,” says Theresa Sullivan, resource partners 24 Brainerd Lakes Area Business & Relocation Guide
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