Identifying workforce needs by routinely convening workforce leaders. This may include meetings to identify technical and life skills, incorporating skills into curriculum, aligning K-16 pathways with local workforce by leveraging programs that are best practices, and promoting engagement with Business Advisory Councils (BACs).  

Promoting awareness of local career pathways by fostering collaborations between employers and educators. This may include encouraging BACs in adopting quality practices, such as those described in the Awards for Excellent BACs, endorsing employer visits at schools as early as middle school, promoting educator visits to businesses, and coordinating professional development for teachers.  

Increasing student exposure to career opportunities. This may include expanding access to career counselors, piloting after-school or summer enrichment, intentional exposure to career exploration, promoting summer employment opportunities, preparation, and training, including job shadowing, internships, mentoring programs, and life skills sessions. Career Champions work with high school students to develop meaningful and personalized post-secondary pathways which align to their specific career goals, offer opportunities to grow in Stark County, and set them up for long-term financial success. 

Growing the next generation of business leaders by fostering entrepreneurship. This may  include supporting Stark Tank, aligning with Junior Achievement, and encouraging similar initiatives and programs.  

Supporting educator effectiveness. This may include piloting career counselors or champions in high schools, providing educator professional workshops, providing credit for educator license renewal tied to externships, and incorporating needed workforce skills into classroom instruction.