Skills Presentations and Discussions - "At the core of our Business Advisory Council meetings is a steadfast commitment to exploring the most in-demand job sectors in our region and understanding the evolving needs of employers as the workplace undergoes transformations due to automation and emerging technologies. In the early months of the 2022-23 school year, we kickstarted our meetings with insights from TeamNEO, our regional data experts. Jacob Durinsky, representing TeamNEO, shared invaluable information with our large group, highlighting the enduring significance of three key job sectors: Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Information Technology. Armed with this data, we strategically directed our efforts towards these high-demand sectors, crafting professional development opportunities and initiatives for our members.
Recognizing the challenges posed by Covid, supply chain disruptions, and inflation, our local employers have grappled with workforce shortages. We've come to appreciate that these employers seek individuals with strong work ethics and adaptability, particularly those willing to acquire trade-specific skills. Furthermore, we've observed a shift in the priorities of our current graduating students, who now place a greater emphasis on aligning their occupations with their desired lifestyles rather than pursuing lifelong careers. As a result, we've dedicated time in each meeting to facilitate discussions on how students, future employees, and employers can collaborate effectively, fostering mutual understanding that ultimately enhances student placement in jobs."