January 5, 2020

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by: marketing

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Tags: Career camps, disability employment, work experience, youth program

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Categories: Newsletter Articles

Fall and Winter Career Camps

employU launched Career Camps across the state over the Thanksgiving and Winter Breaks. A total of 16 camps with over 90 participants took place from West Palm Beach to Jacksonville. Students were able to learn in a project-based environment and complete a business plan for their manufacturing project as well as create the actual goods with their assigned team. They collaborated and came to a consensus on their company name, mission, target market, and pricing. They also created production and finishing teams.  Students were able to utilize their time management and communication skills to complete this project which culminated in a presentation at the end of the camp.

During the camps, students also learned from subject matter experts that came to the various locations to discuss:

  • Tips from an HR professional on how to gain the interview and land the job.
  • An inside look into Social Media and Marketing positions.
  • Information on trade related careers: plumbers, technicians, and other in demand positions.
  • Budgeting and banking information from community partners: Seacoast Bank, Wells Fargo, and Chase.
  • Expert advice about projecting confidence and communication through body language and speaking from our local Toastmasters.

Each area provided community field trips to allow students the firsthand experience to learn about post-secondary options and experience local worksite tours. Community field trips and learning opportunities included:

  • Valencia Community College
  • An in-depth tour by PRM Properties of the major departments at one of their full-service hotels in Daytona.
  • Local Photographers talking to students about entrepreneurship.
  • Local non-profit organizations like animal shelters, food banks, and other resources in the community.

It was a great experience for the students, employU staff, and our local partners across the state.  We are excited for all of the upcoming summer Career Camp sessions and look forward to connecting with all of our clients, VR Counselors, and community partners.