Lake Norman-area high school students were given a first-hand look at their potential future, as dozens of teens toured local manufacturing facilities.
The field trips were hosted by Lake Norman Economic Development in conjunction with the Lake Norman Education Collaborative. They teamed up for the first Journey 360, a manufacturing event for students from Hopewell, Hough, and North Mecklenburg high schools.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) coordinators for all three high schools helped to identify students who are looking for career opportunities after high school. About 60 participants were introduced to three different manufacturing environments: Kurz USA, Pester Pac Automation, and Poly-Tech Industrial. At each location, students toured the facility and met with representatives from HR, sales, marketing, leadership, IT, and technicians to better understand the holistic view of manufacturing.
“What an amazing experience for high school students to have the opportunity to investigate their career options,” Melinda Bales, Huntersville Mayor and co-chair of the collaborative, said. “We are truly blessed in Huntersville to have such incredible business partners that see the value of investing in our students. Journey 360 was a slam dunk for all that participated!”
After panel discussions at all three manufacturing environments, students were able to tour and have a similar discussion with Central Piedmont Community College, where students learned about programs that can advance their future career.
Lake Norman Economic Development hopes to host additional Journey 360 events in the future.
“Our world depends on manufacturing and it was fun watching the light bulb go off in the minds of students who may enter the workforce within a year or two.” Elizabeth Underwood, LNED workforce development manager, said. “Journey 360 is an opportunity to show students what is made right in their backyards and how many departments it takes to run these companies successfully.”
