Senior GPS Program
A collaborative effort is underway to better serve the needs of the Pike County business community and the upcoming graduates who are unsure of their plans for success after high school. The Development Authority of Pike County is proud to unveil a workforce development pilot program called “GPS” – Graduate Pathways for Success. Through collaboration with Pike County High School teachers, the workforce development coordinator, the Pick Pike initiative, and the Pike County Department for Economic Development we are eager to present our collective solution to a prevailing need within the community. There were approximately 50 students in the graduating class of 2019 who were still unsure of what their future held after the ceremony. This program aims to identify these students, target their individual aptitudes and skill sets, encourage their professional development, and help to match them with meaningful careers that our local business community provides, all before the culmination of their senior year.
Proposed Program Schedule and Activities
Aptitude Identification and Exploration August
Teachers will survey students to determine those who would be a best fit for the program – ideally being a student who has not expressed interest or desire in attending post-secondary education and who would be likely to enter the workforce upon graduation. These students will complete aptitude and personality assessments to better understand their potential strengths and weaknesses within the job market. This information will be used throughout the year to pair students with businesses who require similar aptitudes and skill sets that the student would likely be working to enhance.
Business and Industry Teacher Tours September
Teachers will have the opportunity to tour participating businesses in order to begin identifying students with an aptitude that may match the skills and requirements necessary for employment in any of the participating companies. Teachers will begin prepping students who are identified candidates for the program to recognize and explore the skills needed for positions that match their individual aptitudes and overall performance capabilities.
Business and Industry Visits to the High School October
Businesses will set up an information table and make brief presentations to interested students in an assembly setting. After presentations, students will have the opportunity to visit the tables of any of the companies who are participating. Facilitating teachers and staff will be present to encourage students to network with the companies who may match their aptitudes best.
HDCI Training November
Students will be introduced to the WorkSource Three Rivers High Demand Career Initiative portal and receive training on how to utilize the tool. This career planning tool is a one-stop location to learn about the exciting future that exists when you choose a manufacturing career. On this site, students can explore educational programs and career opportunities related to manufacturing by using a visual, interactive, and easy-to-understand dashboard.
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Business and Industry Student Tours January
Selected students who have already been identified as program candidates, and those students who have expressed interest in the program, will have the opportunity to tour participating businesses and industries. The tour will allow the students to see firsthand the processes, work environments, and overall job duties and responsibilities at each participating location.
Soft Skills Development, Interview Coaching, Training February
By taking advantage of the workforce development partnerships with Three Rivers, Southern Crescent Technical College, Griffin Region College and Career Academy, Gordon State College and other potential participants students will receive classes that focus on the development of necessary professional skills for successful career placement. Students will be exposed to interview etiquette, basic principles of time management, adaptability, and collaboration. Essentials of resume building and best practices for marketing themselves as competent employees will also be covered.
Mock Interviews March
Students will be attending at least two mock interviews (set up like a speed dating session) in which they will be critiqued and offered tips for improvement. The objective is to reinforce the etiquette of the students and to provide feedback and considerations for them to keep in mind for the upcoming job fair. Students will use their resume draft during the process to have it reviewed and acquire feedback. Additionally, any business who participates in this function and who has open positions at this time will be able to recruit and offer employment on the spot to the best and brightest job seekers.
Resume Review and Letters of Recommendation April
Students will have their resume final draft reviewed and then final copies will be provided to the student for their use. At this time students should request letters of recommendation from facilitators of the program including but not limited to school faculty, the mock interview advisors, Development Authority and County program coordinators, school administration, etc. that highlight the successful completion of the GPS program and the individual achievements of each participating student.
Job Fair May
A job fair will be held for students to connect one last time with the various businesses and industries who are hiring. Ideally, upon completion of graduation the students will be entering the local workforce immediately. Employers will have the opportunity to connect with the individuals and schedule interviews or provide additional information for job requirements, necessary certifications, etc.
For additional information or to register today please contact:
Ginny Blakeney
(678) 588- 4132