LETTER: Help shape the future at Great American Teach-In

Here in West Orange County, workforce development is an increasingly important topic. The economy is thriving, and businesses continue to flock to our area, but we know that finding and providing qualified employees is a mounting issue.  

On Nov. 15, Orange County Public Schools is hosting the annual OCPS Teach-In program. The West Orange Chamber of Commerce is partnering with OCPS to assist in finding the best participants for the West Orange County high schools (Olympia, West Orange, Windermere, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips and Evans) for this year’s program. This is a great opportunity for to reach students directly and bring awareness to the various jobs that are in demand now and will continue to be in the future. 

It is vitally important that we are engaging our high-school students and making them aware of the various career paths they can take. Many students are not aware of the nearly limitless possibilities available to them. Right here in our area, UCF and Valencia College are providing opportunity to thousands of students each year. Alternatively, many students are finding success through technical programs, like those offered at Orange Technical College, where they are learning valuable skills that put them on a fast track to a great career.

Mike Armbruster, of Orange Technical College, has identified specific courses at each school, in which students would be best served by hearing from someone already in the field. Our goal is to find volunteers in fields including but not limited to: construction, digital media, information technology, culinary arts and engineering. We are looking for volunteers in all stages of the workforce, from the lead decision-makers to the employees of all ranks who can best share their stories about your business and building a successful career in the industry.

OCPS Teach-In is your opportunity to impact your community to help shape the future of our workforce. If you are interested in participating or would like to learn more, please visit foundationforocps.org or contact the chamber by calling (407) 656-1304.  We will connect you with the right school and people to be prepared for Nov. 15. Thank you for considering being a part of this valuable program. 

Stina D'Uva,
president and CEO, West Orange Chamber of Commerce