Blog

Vocational learning has evolved over the years. In the past, it referred to individuals learning particular skills in fields such as welding, plumbing and automotive services. Today’s vocational training looks vastly different. Students are acquiring skills in advanced manufacturing, mechatronics, computer-integrated machining, and other highly technical fields of study. Classrooms have been replaced with employers’ manufacturing headquarters, and students are finding employment before they even graduate college.

A survey done by the Associated General Contractors of America concluded that approximately 62 percent of firms are unable to fill skilled trade positions. The good news is that employers are not sitting on the sidelines. We know that America needs new pathways to opportunity, and employers feel the need to play a bigger role in workforce education. This year it is a goal of the Chamber Foundation to share some of the models we have come across that work, can be repeated, and produce results.

At the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, we believe strongly in investing in education as a way to help support the region’s continued prosperity and engaging community leaders. To encourage young people to think more proactively about their prospective job opportunities– and help area employers better understand and connect with future workers – the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce partners with Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) to host an annual “My Future, My Way” career fair that brings the district’s 7,000 9th grade students together with more than 300 business leaders.