Talent Development is the work of bringing employers and educators together to facilitate the creation of a talent pipeline. By engaging both employers and educators, we learn employers’ workforce needs, now and in the future, and ensure our educators have the necessary information to inform their curriculum as they prepare their students, our future workforce, for the world of work. Using data obtained specific to the Greater Muncie area, we can understand what career pathways are projected to be high wage, high demand and ensure our students have an awareness of and exposure to those pathways and the skills they will need for success.
TALENT DEVELOPMENT AFFECTS ALL OF US
How You Can Get Involved
“KIDS CANNOT BE WHAT THEY CANNOT SEE”
We believe every student has the right to know the career opportunities available to them in their community. The Chamber is working with educators, employers, and community members to ensure students gain awareness of have opportunities to explore career pathways that interest them. Exposure to various industries and occupations are key and they will benefit from engaging with employers in their identified field of interest. Lastly, we want to build out experiences that will engage students, as workers, to gain specific skills in a particular industry or occupation. And we need your help!
Work-Based Learning Experiences
for High School
GUEST SPEAKER/CAREER FAIR PRESENTER
Employers visit the school to speak to students about their career field.
Employer Expectations
- Prepare information to share that is engaging and relevant for interested students
- Provide feedback upon request
School Expectations
- Prepare students academically, socially, and professionally for the guest speaking engagement
- Support the guest speaker by aiding in classroom management
SITE VISIT
Students explore a business to gain context to the information they have already received about a business.
Employer Expectations
- Set clear expectations for participating students
- Provide an environment for students to have a realistic view of the facility and learn what it would be like to work there
School Expectations
- Transport and supervise students
- Prepare students in advance for the site visit, including communication of expectations
JOB SHADOW
The student will join the employer for a typical workday while observing daily activities and asking questions about their career.
Employer Expectations
- Develop a plan for the student, which could include performing small tasks when appropriate
- Set clear expectations
School Expectations
- Prepare students in advance, including communication of expectations
- Provide transportation to and from the job shadowing experience if it occurs during school hours
INTERNSHIP
Sustained interactions between students and professionals in a workplace setting allowing for experiences with tasks in a given career field. Students explore a business to gain context to the information they have already received about a business.
Employer Expectations
- Provide an opportunity for a paid or non-paid experience by hosting a student, more than once, on the job site
- Agree to and implement a training plan
School Expectations
- Development and review of training plan agreed upon by the employer
- Prepare students in advance for the internship, including communication of expectations
Our focus: Delaware County’s Leading Industries
Health & Patient Care refers to the services and practices focused on maintaining and improving the well-being of individuals through the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of illnesses and health conditions. It encompasses a wide range of activities carried out by healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, therapists, etc.) in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and home care.
Construction Trades refers to the skilled professions involved in the building, renovation, and maintenance of structures, infrastructure, and various construction projects. These trades encompass a variety of specialized roles, each requiring specific technical skills, training, and knowledge to perform tasks essential to construction projects.
Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of computers, software, networks, and systems to manage, process, store, and transmit data. IT is a broad field that encompasses everything from computer programming to cybersecurity, and plays a key role in enabling businesses and individuals to use technology efficiently.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, a multidisciplinary approach to education and careers focused on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.
Financial & Professional Services refers to a broad sector that encompasses specialized services provided to individuals, businesses, and governments in managing finances, making strategic decisions, and improving operational efficiency. These services require expertise in areas such as finance, law, accounting, management, and consulting.
Advanced Manufacturing refers to the use of innovative technologies, processes, and materials to improve the design, production, and performance of goods. It combines traditional manufacturing methods with cutting-edge techniques to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customization in various industries. Advanced manufacturing is characterized by automation, data integration, and the use of advanced materials to create high-quality, often complex, products.
Education & Social Services encompasses sectors that focus on human development, community well-being, and support for individuals and families. These fields aim to improve lives through teaching, training, social support, and care, often serving essential roles in fostering social equity and providing services to vulnerable populations.
CREATING AND STRENGTHENING A CULTURE OF EDUCATION IN MUNCIE
As of 2020, 65% of all jobs in the United States required a postsecondary education or credential. Jobs, living wage and above, connect individuals and families to increased economic mobility and prosperity. Today, Muncie’s collective level of adult attainment is half this number.
A Cradle to Career approach is a long-term solution to long-term, complex challenges.
The Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce is a proud partner of Cradle to Career Muncie by leading the Career Employment Community Action Network (CAN).
Ashley Williams serves as the Vice President of Talent Development with the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce. If you want more information or want to be involved in this important work, please contact her at awilliams@muncie.com.