Question 3: Partnerships with Business

Partnerships with business would be an essential factor in the sucess of any workforce preparation program. This same concept that was developed and refined at the beginning of the 20th century in vocational education programs is a model for successful transition of students from school to work.  Advisories made up of members of the business community working with educators can design and modify curriculum that meets the needs of the students and the business community. Businesses can provide technical assistance, internships, job shadowing, speaking opportunities, awards and incentives to students and schools that would enhance the student skill development.  Teachers and professors should also intern, job shadow and network with businesses in a setting outside of academia to improve their teaching of career preparation.  For this to be successful adequate funds need to be appropriated for more effective teacher preparation and staff development once employed.  The academic professionals need to be willing and enabled by their administration for this desired partnership to successful.