Making the right career decision is one of the most important, yet most overwhelming decisions in life. A recent Harris Poll, commissioned by the National Career Development Association (NCDA), of recent graduates and working adults found that 85% agree that career service professionals provide valuable assistance and the majority of people need services from a career services professional.
The Workforce & Career Navigator program strives to support students and their school districts with career connection efforts by providing these services as follows:
Individualized Student Engagement and Exploration
Individual, one-on-one Career Coaching is offered for students identified by their school staff as needing additional guidance in this area. Coaching includes one-on-one meetings, aptitude/interest assessments, job shadowing with local companies, and assistance with resume writing and employability skills.
District-wide Engagement and Exploration
Classroom presentations and activities are available for any grade level and can be tailored to suit the specific needs of each individual district. The Workforce & Career Navigator also serves as the primary contact for sharing information about events, resources, and activities to students, parents, schools, and community organizations. In addition, professional development opportunities are available for career-content teachers and school counselors.
Business and Community Engagement
As a key facilitator of the Mercer County ESC's Business Advisory Council, the Workforce & Career Navigator works with community partners, businesses, and industries to help connect local career opportunities to the students and schools as part of the BAC's strategies and efforts.