We recognize that a well-trained and motivated workforce is a critical element for retaining and attracting businesses for our area. In 2013, the Denton Chamber helped coordinate a pilot project, a career planning fair.
The key partner in this collaboration was the Denton Independent School District. Of equal importance, the other major players included Texas Woman’s University, the University of North Texas and North Central Texas College.
Students read flyers as they wait for a keynote speaker to begin at last year’s Career Planning Fair.
This project also involved many of our major employers, including Peterbilt, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, Sally Beauty, Denton Regional Medical Center and Labinal.
All of these sponsors and participants, from both the private and public sector, provided panelists to meet with over 300 Denton ISD juniors and sophomores.
These students received educational and professional career advice. They heard about local occupational needs, including health care, creative arts and humanities, education, law enforcement, engineering and science.
Keynote Speaker, District 4 Denton City Councilman Joey Hawkins, speaking to a group of kids at last year’s Career Planning Fair.
All of the feedback from the initial pilot project was positive and, our board of directors agreed to move forward with this event as a standing program initiative. The 2014 version of our career planning fair is scheduled for Wednesday, November 5 at the Denton ISD Advanced Technology Complex.
The keynote speaker will be 2010 & 2014 Olympian and medalist, Denton’s own Jordan Malone. We’re also adding a component this year to involve the parents and guardians of these students.
We’re obviously fortunate to have all of these players at the table, with the combined goal of focusing career paths with area employer needs.
by: Chuck Carpenter
DENTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 