Registered Nurse. Carpenter. School Teacher. Auditor. Truck Driver.
Do you know what these five occupations have in common? They’re all in high demand.
Eventually, we will be able to transition back into our normal routines. In the meantime, you might be getting to spend some additional time with your family around the house. This is a great chance to sit down and start exploring the opportunities that lie ahead for them in the future.
Today we want to highlight a platform that helps students identify these jobs, learn all about them, and even help determine how they can afford the education to get them.
Start the Conversation Here is an initiative by the Pennsylvania Chamber Educational Foundation to help bridge the skills gap in the Commonwealth. Here’s how they help:
Students: Maybe you’re unsure exactly what you want to do when you grow up, or maybe you’re looking for the big bucks. Start the Conversation Here lets you surf through an archive of different jobs and see employment trends, salaries, and qualifications. It even gives you examples of job titles you might have someday. Still not quite sure what you want? Head over to the Success Stories tab and read about students just like you that found their passion in the trades.
Parents: Is your child considering a job in skilled trades? This parent resources page offers downloads and additional information on how to prepare your child for the 21st century workforce. As you think about the financial aspect of your child’s education, be sure to check out the site’s most recent addition, Your Career Starts Here. This online calculator can help you identify post-secondary education options and determine what the best financial choice might be. The Chamber Foundation also offers a Work Ethic Scholarship program in partnership with the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to provide funding for students pursuing trade programs.
Employers: The employer resource page provides the information you will need to recruit well-deserving, qualified workers for your company. The site provides information about apprenticeship programs, the labor market, and workforce development surveys to help you identify trends. You can also navigate to PA Career Link’s employer services to assist with your talent acquisition.
The truth is, Pennsylvania needs skilled workers. Campaigns such as Start the Conversation Here help students take vital steps in discovering the jobs that are profitable, secure, and most importantly, available in today’s workforce.
