Throughout the early months of 2024, VAMA's engagement with various educational institutions and career expos has been instrumental in fostering awareness about our industry and its opportunities among students. Across counties and programs, our interactions have aimed to provide valuable insights and guidance to young minds. Below is a summary of our recent endeavors and their outcomes.
1/17/2024 Kempsville High School Master Class (Virginia Beach):
On January 17, we conducted a Master Class at Kempsville High School, engaging with their Business Academy Students. We had the privilege of presenting our industry to 70 students, guiding them through the diverse career paths available. Each panelist shared their unique journey, showcasing the abundance of opportunities within our field.
3/27/2024 Hanover County Schools Career Expo:
At the Hanover County Schools Career Expo, members of CVA, alongside VAMA staff, manned a table. While the event proceeded smoothly, it was observed that many students seemed underprepared or lacked interest in engaging with the attending adults.
3/27/2024 Kempsville High School Career Fair (Virginia Beach):
VAMA, Dragas, and PRG participated in the Kempsville High School Career Fair, distributing informational flyers about the industry and showcasing its benefits through posters. Although the primary focus was on providing information rather than offering immediate job opportunities, the event served as an effective platform for student outreach.
3/28/2024 William Monroe High School Career Expo (Greene County):
At the William Monroe High School Career Expo, members of BR, supported by VAMA staff, interacted with students from grades 7 to 12. The students displayed a high level of preparedness and engagement, leading to an invitation to conduct a panel discussion on RPM Careers in May. Efforts are underway to secure panelists for this upcoming presentation.
4/11/2024 Meeting with Region 2 Work-Based Learning Board:
A meeting was convened with the Region 2 Work-Based Learning Board, comprising Principals, Vice Principals, Directors, and Academy Directors. During this session, we introduced our industry and highlighted its viability for students. Emphasis was placed on the potential growth opportunities and earnings within our field, along with discussions on expanding partnerships beyond Virginia Beach.
4/16/2024 Varina High School Career Fair (Henrico County):
VAMA actively participated in the Varina High School Career Fair on April 16, engaging with students from grades 9 to 12. The students demonstrated exceptional preparedness, facilitated by their counselors, and exhibited keen interest in the information shared by our volunteers.
J Sargent Reynolds & Brightpoint Community Colleges, CVA Richmond, Maintenance
John McGarry Collaboration: Last year, we collaborated with J Sargent Reynolds & Brightpoint Community Colleges, CVA Richmond, and MaintenanceJohn McGarry to facilitate the implementation of the CAMT program. Through our support, grants were secured, enabling the commencement of classes with a local public housing group. Plans are in place to extend the course's accessibility to the public, starting in June/July, with necessary materials obtained through NAA.
Overall, these engagements underscore our commitment to fostering awareness and providing opportunities within our industry, paving the way for the future workforce.