The concept of coordinating business and education is not new, however it can be challenge over the long run.  I'm not sure that many people understand that this effort requires a long-term commitment by dedicated individuals from both education and business.
 
Business and education have lived in their separate worlds far too long with business complaining about the lack of adequate training, but doing little to help bring about changes to improve the system.
 
With the basic premise that education is tasked with putting out a product that business can utilize, both entities need to be involved in a on going process to make the educational end product viable.  To that effort, the Automotive Workforce Development Team is working to make this happen by continuously meeting and involving representatives from both education and business.
 
Instructors and industrial education coordinators from high schools, community colleges, and proprietary vocational schools meet with business owners and personnel directors from independent and chain automotive businesses, as well as dealerships and fleet operators.  Businesses need an ability to express their needs and requirements to the educators just as educational persons need to express their situations and ability to adjust their programs to the needs of business.
 
The role of business in the education process should be the following:
 
        Hosting Student Site Visitation
        Hosting Student Job Shadowing
        Hiring Students for Co-operative Education
        Volunteering for Classroom presentations
        Participating in School Career Fairs

Click here for a brief description of the above activities.
Click here for additional ways employers can contribute.

Educators should take advantage of the above opportunities and utilize the resources to augment their programs.  Refer to the Employer Participation List for business representatives who have volunteered in these areas and call on them.
 
Another reason to attend the AWDT meetings is for members to get to know each other, so that faces can be applied to the names on the roster.  It's a lot easier to ask someone you already know to work with you than if you've never met.  Business members are willing to participate, but the instructors have to take the initiative and extend the invitation.  Again, it's a lot easier if you're face to face at an AWDT meeting.
 
Working together, business and education can improve the system, but it will take consistent, long-term dedication and involvement by all members of the Team.  Attending an occasional meeting or having your name on the roster will not get it done.  Everyone attending the Team's meetings has the opportunity to express their opinions and add suggestions to better our efforts.  Although we've made progress, there's still a lot to be done.
 
"Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or industry in which he is engaged.  No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve his sphere."
 
       Teddy Roosevelt