More than 4000 students and families across the region participated in a week-long workforce development initiative,
Imagine! Career Week, an annual event that spotlights the many jobs and careers that are available to young people in the Pittsburgh region.
This marks the fifth year for the initiative, which is moving the conversation forward on the importance of real-world career awareness and education for youth. The week featured student scientists and a robot rumble, job shadowing throughout the city, inspirational speakers, workshops and meetups with perspective employers.
Forty-eight teams from Southwestern Pa. brought their 15-pound student built robots to the 6th Annual BOTS IQ Regional Championship. Middle and high school students entered an
essay and video contest that answered the question, "What does your future look like?" The winners were announced by Gov. Corbett.
In addition to programs for youth, a new component was added offering job assistance to adults as well, says Stefani Pashman, CEO of
Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board. Adults participated in counseling sessions on financial literacy and parenting workshops, helping them with complex challenges and to be entrepreneurial in money management.
"It's an amazing example of collaboration among many companies and individuals in the workforce development field," says Pashman. "It was an exciting week to be around the youth and the energy they bring to the table; there's always more we can do."
Organizers are already looking beyond to next year. Get involved now in the planning for the
next Career Week. Citizen's Bank was a primary sponsor.
Writer:
Deb Smit
Source: Stefani Pashman, 3 Rivers Workforce Investment Board