As generations pass, the standard four years of college is beginning to be recognized as not the only successful path after graduating, which is why SteeleCoWorks worked to develop the first annual job signing day that highlighted every student’s future, including the students who were not planning to go to college. The signing took place at OHS on May 1st, where students were honored for their commitment to hard work by entering a path that may not be as common as the ‘traditional college’ way; such as trade school, the workforce or armed services after high school. The signing day specifically recognized nine students who were entering the workforce or plan on working towards a technical degree.

The chamber, United Way and Workforce Development worked to hire a workforce coordinator to work on recognizing students and businesses, as well as getting other schools involved in the county such as the ALC, Brooming Prairie and Medford. Workforce Entry Coordinator Anisha Zak, worked one on one with students to help them recognize their interested career path and helped them highlight goals. She also worked to help students connect with opportunities including; paid internships, mentorships or jobs with businesses. Zak said, “We get so caught up in thinking that every child will go to college and get a job, but the ultimate goal of every parent is to have their child working, making a good wage and being happy.” The signing day acknowledged the benefits that both the employer and students have gained from the experiences that were brought to them through the SteeleCoWorks program. This year, three students are involved in the Federated paid internship program. Federated Insurance Employment Manager Dawn Rathai said, “It’s been really fun to invest in the next generation and to really help develop future talent.”

The official ceremony signed nine students with Viracon, Daikin, Federated, Climate Design, Ecumen and AmesburyTruth. OHS principal Mr. Mark Randall thanked the businesses, and said, “You have opened up your doors to the students here to be able to go to the workforce, and get the hands on experiences that we want our students to have.” The students are eager to start their future in the workforce, where they will continue to build and learn new skills in their path. Senior Jonathon Burbie, who signed with Daikin, said, “I think it’s important to highlight students who don’t plan on going to college, but also help to work on the simple things that we take for granted at times.” The SteeleCoWorks signing day was an amazing opportunity to recognize students achievements, while at the same time influencing others to seek opportunities in the local businesses as well.