YEAR IN REVIEW
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Workforce & Professional Development The Chamber continued to expand our workforce initiatives and programs in 2024. This includes the introduction of a new career experience program, Educator Industry Experience , which offers area educators and school administrators the chance to experience career
Business Development Exchange on Branding Best Practices
160 ACTIVE RYT NETWORK MEMBERS
opportunities with local employers. In 2024, six different employers shared what training looks like, gave site tours, and answered questions to help bridge the gap when students are asking questions about different career fields in the classroom.
"It was extremely helpful to learn about the different career options and pathways people took to get where they are today."
Educator Industry Experience with Benike Construction
35 AVERAGE ATTENDEES AT BDX SESSIONS
Our host employers appreciated the chance to talk with educators as they are preparing the next generation of employees, making it beneficial to both educators and employers. Educator participant and Director of Postsecondary Readiness at Rochester Public Schools, Heather Hogan says, “It was extremely helpful to learn about the different career options and pathways people took to get where they are today. I also appreciated the chance to deepen my knowledge about businesses in Rochester, and making connections.” Our 2024 STEAM Summit hosted at Rochester Community and Technical College further highlighted its commitment to workforce development by encouraging middle and high school students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. This highly interactive, hands-on event connected nearly 2,500 students from 28 schools across Minnesota and Northern Iowa with 100 industry exhibitors, including health care, trades, technology, hospitality, and more. The Summit’s engaging format inspired students to consider the possibilities within STEAM fields.
Leadership Greater Rochester Session 9 Exploring Public Safety
RYT Network Industry Tour at the Rochester International Airport
RYT Network Workshop on Elevator Pitches
28 SCHOOLS AT STEAM SUMMIT
8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE
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