PAW PAW, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Tuesday, Paw Paw High School officials announced a new partnership to help students find local employment opportunities this summer.
The partnership is between Paw Paw High School and Market Van Buren, an economic, community and talent development nonprofit organization based in Paw Paw.
On Wednesday, July 7, area community and business leaders will speak to students at the Paw Paw High School Performing Arts Center about the skills and experiences that lead to success in high school and beyond.
Students will also learn about the immediate and long-term needs of employers in Van Buren County.
Officials say the goal of the partnership is to get students focused on their goals and opportunities as early as possible in their high school careers, while also developing a strong talent pipeline for local businesses.
Paw Paw High School Principal Tammy Southworth calls the partnership an important opportunity for high school students.
“Often students don’t really start thinking about the future until late in high school or even after graduation,” Southworth said in a statement. “Market Van Buren is coming in with a message that the earlier students know what they want, and the earlier they know what employers want, the more relevant school will feel to them. It’s exciting for us to be able to make the connection between business owners who are looking to hire quality employees and students who will be looking for those jobs.”
Zach Morris, Executive Director of Market Van Buren, says he is excited to support the partnership that can make a difference for students.
“The young men and women in high school are the future citizens, employees, and neighbors of our community and it’s important that we support and motivate them now,” Morris said in a statement. “Many students are not aware of the many different pathways available after high school that can lead to success and opportunity with great companies in our area, and we’re excited to work with Paw Paw High School to help students recognize those opportunities.”
Later this summer, Market Van Buren will also provide an opportunity for students to visit a job site to learn about the construction trade and heavy machinery operation.
