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Driving Economic Transformation

Inside IALR Podcast: Registered Apprenticeship Best Practices and Lessons Learned

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Inside IALR Podcast: Registered Apprenticeship Best Practices and Lessons Learned

Inside IALR Podcast: Registered Apprenticeship Best Practices and Lessons Learned

Registered apprenticeships pair paid, hands-on work with classroom lessons to grow dependable talent. In this Inside IALR episode, host Caleb Ayers talks with:

  • Natori Neal – Apprenticeship Coordinator, IALR’s ExTRA program
  • Jenny Spitzer – Co-owner, Spitzer Inc. (electrical contractors)
  • Josh Arnold – Master Electrician and lead instructor at Spitzer
  • Jacob Oakes – Second-year electrical apprentice

They share insights on:

  • How a registered apprenticeship is structured, from day-one wages to a journeyman credential
  • Building curriculum around the employer’s real work
  • Why covering tuition and books helps apprentices focus and stay
  • Choosing the right mentors
  • Starting with small cohorts to emphasize quality over head-count
  • Utilizing the free support from IALR’s EXTRA program for designing, funding and sustaining apprenticeship programs

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IALR Named Apprenticeship Ambassador by U.S. Department of Labor

IALR Named Apprenticeship Ambassador by U.S. Department of Labor

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has been named an Apprenticeship Ambassador by the U.S. Department of Labor in recognition of the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program. This designation underscores IALR’s commitment to advancing Registered Apprenticeship programs in ways that meet the evolving workforce needs of the region’s employers. The ExTRA program helps bridge workforce gaps and create new opportunities for individuals and businesses across Southern Virginia.

“Our focus is on creating pathways that provide economic mobility for individuals while meeting the talent needs of regional businesses. Registered Apprenticeship is a powerful way to achieve both.” – Natori Neal, Apprenticeship Coordinator, IALR

Through the ExTRA program, IALR works with regional businesses to implement apprenticeship programs in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, construction, information technology and education. These programs offer participants paid, on-the-job training coupled with classroom learning, providing a seamless, practical way to build the skills needed for a successful career. To date, the ExTRA program has supported the creation of 31 new apprenticeship programs and the registration of 82 new apprentices since its inception in 2022.

VISIT THE EXTRA WEBSITE

“Being named an Apprenticeship Ambassador reflects our commitment to workforce development across Southern Virginia. By supporting employers and individuals through our ExTRA program, we are contributing to a stronger, more skilled regional economy.” – Julie Brown, Ph.D., Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR

ExTRA provides employers with technical assistance in developing, registering, and administering apprenticeship programs. With investment from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, there are grant funds available to support the required classroom instruction.

“The Tobacco Commission is proud to be a long-time supporter of IALR and this designation from the U.S. Department of Labor makes it clear that IALR is a leader in developing apprenticeship programs that create opportunities for those living in Southern Virginia,” said Tobacco Commission Member, Delegate Danny Marshall. “IALR does an excellent job of supporting our local business community and we look forward to working with them for years to come on innovative workforce development solutions.”

The ExTRA program has made significant strides in expanding apprenticeship opportunities in emerging and nontraditional sectors. For instance, IALR staff supported the creation of Virginia’s first Registered Apprenticeship programs for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics.

By blending on-the-job training with classroom instruction, apprenticeship programs ensure that participants gain practical, hands-on experience while also learning the theoretical knowledge behind their trade. This dual approach meets the evolving workforce needs of employers by producing highly skilled talent equipped for high-demand industries.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Initiative creates a national network of community-based organizations, educators, employers, industry associations, labor organizations, program sponsors, workforce intermediaries and other stakeholders to serve as champions for expanding and diversifying Registered Apprenticeship. As an Apprenticeship Ambassador, IALR is tasked with raising awareness about the benefits of apprenticeship programs, creating new partnerships and driving the adoption of innovative apprenticeship models across the region.

ExTRA is part of IALR’s systematic effort to connect students to careers. 

About the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg, along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.

V-TOP AND EmPOWER Webinar Coming to Dan River Region

V-TOP AND EmPOWER Webinar Coming to Dan River Region

Webinar Presents Resources to Recruit Talent and Strengthen Talent Pipeline

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce, the Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce, and the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) are partnering to provide Chamber members an opportunity to learn about the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP) and EmPOWER work-based learning framework. Both initiatives are designed to assist employers in recruiting talent and strengthening regional talent pipelines. V-TOP is funded through the Commonwealth Innovative Internship Fund and Program. The purpose of the program is to expand paid and credit-bearing student internships and other work-based learning opportunities in collaboration with Virginia employers and facilitate the readiness of students, employers, and institutions of higher education to participate in internship and work-based learning.

“This webinar is a direct result from requests of Chamber members in our annual membership survey,” said Anne Moore-Sparks, president and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. “Listening to the needs of business and responding with high quality, in-demand programming is a top priority. We are excited to partner with the Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce and are fortunate to have IALR as a partner because of their experience and reputation in facilitating work-based learning opportunities.”

Logo for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR).

There are several resources available through V-TOP to support businesses’ internship and work-based learning efforts, including modules to assist employers with developing an internship program, free mentor training, staffing agency services and internship stipend matching funds (for employers of certain sizes).

“Many of our chamber members are looking for ways to bring awareness to the talent pipeline. Our members are willing to utilize work-based learning opportunities as a valuable tool for introducing the workforce to their organizations,” said Brenell Thomas, president of the Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce. “Partnering on this event made sense because it provides an efficient and convenient way for the members of both chambers to gain insight about the valuable resources available through V-TOP.”

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research is the regional V-TOP facilitator for the Danville Pittsylvania County (and greater GO Virginia Region 3) region. EmPOWER is IALR’s employer-driven system to empower and connect students to careers and provides employers with a variety of opportunities and formats to connect with their future talent.

“Work-based learning is an amazing way to connect with young talent and develop employees with the skills employers need. Work-based learning is incredibly diverse — it’s not just internships. IALR’s EmPOWER team is passionate about connecting employers to programs and resources that work for their organization.” – Jessie Vernon, Program Manager for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

The one-hour webinar will be facilitated by both Jessie Vernon, Advanced Learning Program Manager, and Kiana Dillard, Work-Based Learning Coordinator, at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. While this webinar is designed for Chamber members only, non-Chamber businesses who are interested in additional information should contact Jessie Vernon at Jessie.Vernon@ialr.org or 434.766.6722.

There is no cost to attend but registration is required. 

Register Today

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce accelerates business growth by connecting its 560+ member organizations and 22,000 employee members to dynamic resources and networks. The Chamber’s number one goal is to help area businesses of all sizes to grow and prosper.

The Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization comprised of businesses serving our community. With over 600 members, the Chamber acts as a voice for businesses in the region while also providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and increased community exposure.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax, and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Danville and Martinsville.

Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Businesses

Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Businesses

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is seeking employers and businesses across Southern Virginia to partner and participate in work-based learning programs.

“We encourage employers across Southern Virginia to participate in our programs, which help employers grow the regional workforce and allow students to connect and learn about quality career opportunities in the region.” – Jessie Vernon, Advanced Learning Program Manager, IALR

Each of the programs below is part of IALR’s EmPOWER framework, an employer-driven system to empower and connect students to careers. Through career awareness, engagement and experience IALR builds pipelines of students whose skillsets align with current employer needs and economic development interests.

AspHIRE – Meet Your Future Workforce

IALR is looking for volunteers to participate as mock interviewers or session presenters at AspHIRE mock interview days across Southern Virginia. The mock interview days allow high school seniors – as well as some juniors – to hone their interview skills with a local professional. Students take part in a formal business lunch and several work-readiness sessions.

The AspHIRE Mock Interview Days will take place at the following locations and times:

  • Danville, Institute for Advanced Learning and Research: March 5 and 7
  • Farmville, Longwood University: March 13
  • South Boston, Southern Virginia Higher Education Center: March 26

The minimum volunteer commitment is 1.5 hours, but business professionals and employers who would like to invest more time are welcome. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Volunteer Interest Form 

Ignite – Internships

IALR is looking for businesses that can host a high school or college intern this summer. Companies will receive assistance in navigating the logistics of creating an internship program and finding talent. IALR also connects employers with available resources – including matching funds and mentor training – from partners like the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (Virginia TOP).

More than 25,000 students across Southern Virginia have access to MajorClarity, a work-based learning platform where all internships will be posted. This gives businesses access to the best and brightest students across the region. Internship duration and hours are customizable and companies may be eligible for matching funds for the cost of the intern.

Internship Support

Employer Internship Interest Form

Next generation Of Work (NOW) – Teamship

IALR is looking for businesses interested in having teams of students tackle a pressing business problem – a process that provides benefits for students and benefits for employers. The time commitment for businesses participating in NOW is just five hours; students are supported by a District C-certified coach.

Past business participants have posed problems such as staffing difficulties, EPA regulations, and the adoption of new technology.

Businesses meet with the students three times during the Teamship process and receive real solutions to their problems. The next cohort of NOW-Teamshp will begin April 8. Businesses that are interested in participating should contact Jessie Vernon no later than March 11. 

Next generation Of Work (NOW)

Exploring Careers Through Industry Teacher Externships (Excite)

IALR is looking for businesses to host teachers or school counselors through Exploring Careers through Industry Teacher Externships (EXCITE), a professional development program for educators across 15 counties in Virginia. This teacher externship program connects the classroom to the workplace. Teachers can use their experiences to design and implement classroom activities, projects and work-based learning opportunities that will add relevance and meaning to students’ classroom learning.

Participating businesses commit between one and three days during the summer to host educators. There is no financial commitment associated with this program.

Businesses interested in hosting an educator this summer can contact Kiana Dillard. The deadline to sign up to host an educator is May 3.

Business Interest Form 

Educator Interest Form

Sector-Focused Camps

In addition to summer STEM camps hosted at IALR, IALR works with local employers to develop and implement sector-focused camps. These camps, which can range from a single day to a whole week, provide an opportunity to introduce students to targeted industries – and help them discover career paths to enter these fields.

Past sector-focused camps have focused on industries like local government, healthcare and construction.

Businesses that are interested in hosting student tours, serving as guest speakers/instructors, or sponsoring a sector-focused camp should contact Jessie Vernon.

Registered Apprenticeship

In partnership with IALR, the Danville Life Saving Crew – the primary Emergency Medical Services provider for the City of Danville – signed 13 individuals as Virginia’s first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) registered apprentices during an October ceremony.

IALR also supports the development and implementation of successful registered apprenticeship programs for employers across Southern Virginia through the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program. Registered apprenticeship is an industry-driven workforce training strategy that combines on-the-job training and classroom instruction to develop highly skilled employees in a particular occupation

State Registered Apprenticeship is ideal for various sectors like construction, healthcare, early childhood education, manufacturing and information technology.

Through ExTRA, IALR provides technical assistance in the creation of apprenticeship programs, grant funding, connections to employers and talent, and more.

Employers that are interested in apprenticeships should contact Natori Neal.

Apprenticeships 

Litehouse Foods Signs First Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice

Litehouse Foods Signs First Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice

Litehouse Foods of Danville, Va., signed the company’s first industrial maintenance mechanic apprentice during a ceremonial event at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) on Oct. 6. In this role, apprentice Joseph Echols will learn how to safely maintain and repair manufacturing machinery and equipment integral to ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the plant.

This is a four-year, or 8,000-hour, apprenticeship term where wage rates will increase in connection with apprentices’ occupational knowledge and skillsets.

IALR hosted a ceremonial signing event for Litehouse Foods’ first industrial maintenance technician on Oct. 6.
From left to right: Natori Neal, IALR Apprenticeship Coordinator; Kara Joyce, DOLI Apprenticeship Consultant; Neville Moe, Litehouse Foods Plant Manager; Joseph Echols, Litehouse Apprentice; Craig Mauldin, Maintenance Engineering Manager; Michelle Shorter, Human Resources Generalist II.

“IALR is proud to partner with Litehouse Foods and the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry to launch this Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Apprenticeship program at their Danville facility. This program will allow Litehouse to effectively upskill current employees like Joseph and provide effective, paid on-the-job training for new employees in the future.” — Natori Neal, IALR Apprenticeship Coordinator

Litehouse, Inc. started in an Idaho restaurant owned by the Hawkins family over 50 years ago. Since that time, it has become the leader in refrigerated salad dressings, dips, sauces, herbs, and cheese, manufacturing these delicious products at its four U.S. facilities based in Sandpoint Idaho, Lowell Michigan, Hurricane Utah, and Danville Virginia. Litehouse offers its diverse portfolio of products through general retail, e-commerce, food service, deli, member stores, and value-added goods where Litehouse products are featured in meal and salad kits. Litehouse is proud to be 100% employee-owned, and each one of the employee owners carries on the high standards of quality and innovation.

“We believe that apprenticeship programs like this are essential to our future success. We understand that by investing in the next generation of talent, we are not only shaping our own success but fostering a culture of learning and development. Our apprenticeship programs are not just a part of our company; they are a living embodiment of our Core Values.” — Neville Moe, Plant Director

Echols is a current student at Danville Community College (DCC) who also holds two Industrial Technician Associates of Applied Science degrees from DCC.

Virginia registered apprenticeship programs require a mix of on-the-job training and related technical instruction (RTI). The model includes a paid job experience for employees that includes a combination of on-the-job training and related technical instruction (RTI).

“We welcome Litehouse Foods to the Registered Apprenticeship family. As it does for many Virginia manufacturers, Registered Apprenticeship helps Litehouse Foods create a consistently trained and skilled workforce that performs at a high level. Congratulations to Litehouse Foods.” — Kara Joyce, Registered Apprenticeship Consultant with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry

Through the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeships (ExTRA) program, which is supported by grants from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, IALR has helped establish 18 apprenticeship programs with various companies across Southern Virginia in industries like construction, healthcare and manufacturing. Supported by grants from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, this program helps reimburse eligible RTI costs for employers establishing new registered apprenticeship programs.

IALR’s apprenticeship program is part of the EmPOWER framework, an employer-driven, work-based learning system of programs that systematically connects students to careers through focus areas like career awareness, career exposure and engagement opportunities, and career experience through apprenticeships, internships and other work-based learning programs.

Danville Life Saving Crew, IALR Launch State’s First Registered EMT Apprenticeship Program

Danville Life Saving Crew, IALR Launch State’s First Registered EMT Apprenticeship Program

In partnership with the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, the Danville Life Saving Crew – the primary Emergency Medical Services provider for the City of Danville – signed 13 individuals as Virginia’s first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) registered apprentices during a ceremony on Oct 6. Over the next several months, these 13 apprentices will be fully employed with the Danville Life Saving Crew while they study and practice in a classroom environment in preparation to obtain their Emergency Medical Technician Certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. In addition to the National Registry certification, each person completing the program will obtain their Journeyworker Credential from the State Apprenticeship Agency. The EMT apprenticeship program is one year, which equates to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training.

“IALR is proud to work with the Danville Life Saving Crew to facilitate the development and launch of the first Registered EMT Apprenticeship program in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In a time when emergency service providers around the country are struggling to hire and retain qualified personnel, this apprenticeship program will increase the number of trained and qualified EMTs for the Danville Life Saving Crew. This innovative program represents a milestone in IALR’s goal to expand talent through registered apprenticeship and demonstrates how apprenticeships can be used to develop skilled workers in non-traditional sectors.” — Natori Neal, Apprenticeship Coordinator for IALR, a Virginia Division of Registered Apprenticeship Intermediary and program sponsor

During an Oct. 6 ceremony, the Danville Life Saving Crew signed 13 registered EMT apprentices.

Created in partnership with IALR, this is the first registered EMT apprenticeship program in Virginia.

“This EMT apprenticeship program will benefit the participants by providing mandatory training for an EMT position. Adding a cohort of new EMTs like this enables the Danville Life Saving Crew to grow its team and provide qualified emergency medical personnel for our community. “The Crew piloted this program in 2022 before beginning the process to become registered apprenticeship program sponsors. Working with Tori and the Institute has been easy and successful, and we are very pleased that our program is the first registered EMT apprenticeship program in Virginia.” — Johnny Mills, CEO of the Danville Life Saving Crew

Virginia registered apprenticeship programs require a mix of on-the-job training and related technical instruction (RTI). For this program, the RTI will be front-loaded into the first 10 weeks and provided by the Danville Area Training Center. After completing classwork and waiting for their EMT exam date, the apprentices will work as a third person on an Emergency Response Vehicle. After passing their exam, the apprentices will be certified EMT-Basics and can continue on-the-job training with increased duties alongside a mentor. The apprentices will respond to emergency calls, provide basic life support/pre-hospital services to the critically ill and injured, and transport patients to a medical facility, always working in collaboration with and under the direction of other crew members and the incident command.

The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) Division of Registered Apprenticeship approved the Danville Area Training Center as a private RTI provider earlier this year. The apprenticeship program was officially registered with DOLI in April.

Danville Life Saving Crew/IALR Registered EMT Apprenticeship Program

After their one-year term, these apprentices will receive their Journeyworker Credential, a portable, nationally recognized credential from the State Apprenticeship Agency that demonstrates mastery of skills and competencies. In addition to the EMT and Journeymen certificates, participants will also earn CPR and Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) certifications. After obtaining these certifications, these individuals can then serve as mentors for future EMT apprentices.

Registered apprenticeship is an occupation-specific training model designed to produce highly skilled workers to meet the demands of employers. The model includes a paid job experience for employees that includes a combination of on-the-job training and related technical instruction.

“The Division of Registered Apprenticeship is proud to partner with IALR to increase the reach of registered apprenticeships as a training and career pathway. The registered apprenticeship program with Danville Life Saving Crew demonstrates new ways to utilize the RA model to increase needed emergency credentials. This opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’ will broaden the pool of trained emergency personnel for the Danville area, illustrating why registered apprenticeship is a win for everyone from the DLSC to the citizens whom they will serve.” — Kara Joyce, Registered Apprenticeship Consultant with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry

Through the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeships (ExTRA) program, IALR has helped establish 18 apprenticeship programs with various companies across Southern Virginia in industries like construction, healthcare and manufacturing. Some of these companies have already hired apprentices to complete those programs, whereas others are working through logistics before beginning to hire apprentices. IALR’s efforts to expand registered apprenticeship programs in Southern Virginia are supported by grants from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission. These grants fund both IALR’s Apprenticeship Coordinator — Natori Neal, who began work in February 2022 — and reimburse eligible RTI costs for employers establishing new registered apprenticeship programs.

IALR’s apprenticeship program is part of the EmPOWER framework, an employer-driven, work-based learning system of programs that systematically connects students to careers through focus areas like career awareness, career exposure and engagement opportunities, and career experience through apprenticeships, internships and other work-based learning programs.

“Working with partners to connect students to careers and prepare Southern Virginia residents for career opportunities is a major focus of IALR. The new, unique Registered EMT Apprenticeship program exemplifies our commitment to workforce development that meets the needs of both the trainees and the employers in the region.” — Jessie Vernon, IALR Advanced Learning Program Manager 

The Virginia Career Works West Piedmont Region is partnering to provide supportive services for apprentices in the program, including 50% wage reimbursement to DLSC for 10 weeks. They will also provide monetary incentives to apprentices for reaching certain milestones during the program.

About the Danville Area Training Center

The Danville Area Training Center was established and dedicated in 2003 to provide a regional training facility to the city of Danville and nearby agencies. Today, the Danville Area Training Center (DATC) educates thousands of healthcare providers, EMTs, and community members annually. The DATC offers courses in First Aid and CPR, Basic and Advanced Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Emergency Medical Technician, Vehicle Rescue Awareness and Operations, Emergency Vehicle Operations, Mass Casualty and Traffic Incident Management.

Danville Area Training Center Website

About the Danville Life Saving Crew

Serving the City of Danville and portions of the surrounding counties, the Danville Life Saving Crew employs volunteers and career staff to provide prehospital care. First founded in 1945, the Danville Life Saving Crew’s mission is to be the leader in delivering prehospital care to the sick and injured. It is also their goal to provide superior training to our members and members of other agencies throughout the community.

Danville Life Saving Crew Website

About the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, advanced manufacturing, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s primary service area is Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. 

Driving Economic Transformation 

Connecting the Classroom to the Workplace: 21 Educators Participate in Externships

Connecting the Classroom to the Workplace: 21 Educators Participate in Externships

“When will I ever use this in the real world?”

A Math and Algebra 1 Teacher at Fieldale-Collinsville Middle School, Brittany Price, hears that question from her students almost daily.

“They want to know how the content they are learning in class will help them in their chosen career field one day,” she said. “These are valid questions that were difficult for me to answer.”

After participating in the Exploring Careers through Industry Teacher Externships (EXCITE) program earlier this summer, Price is better equipped to answer those questions and connect math concepts to regional employment opportunities. In just a week, Price spent time in Press Glass in Ridgeway, Henry County Public Safety, the Animal Medical Center in Danville and Danville Utilities.

“After participating in EXCITE, I can see how the math we teach students can be applied in different industry scenarios.” — Brittany Price, Algebra Teacher, Fieldale-Collinsville Middle School

Brittany Price (right) was one of 21 Southern Virginia educators who participated in the week-long EXCITE program this summer. During this externship program, these educators visited local industries, learning about opportunities in the region and making connections to the classroom.

This year 21 Southern Virginia educators participated in the week-long EXCITE program, connecting with local industries and employers and making connections to their classrooms. Two cohorts of educators visited various employers, including government organizations, manufacturers, sawmills, HVAC companies, utility providers and many other industries.

“I can share my experience at these businesses with my students and let them know what job opportunities are available and what skills they will need to succeed.” – Wayne Talley, Carpentry Teacher at Mecklenburg County High School.

Connecting the Classroom to the Workplace

First developed in 2018 and funded by the Danville Regional Foundation and organized by IALR, the professional development program is now available for educators across GO Virginia Region 3.

The main goal is simple: to connect the classroom to the workplace by engaging teachers and counselors with business and industry. Teachers improve their pedagogical practices by incorporating new methods, labor market information and employment skills that meet current industry standards.

The goal of EXCITE is to… 

  • Increase an educator’s ability to connect theory and practice
  • Bring an understanding of workplace practices and policies (e.g., problem-solving methods, practical applications of theory, leadership concepts, etc.) into the classroom
  • Increase the relevance of student learning

“The EXCITE program helps educators to better understand opportunities in the region, problems that employers are experiencing and the types of workers they need. This knowledge filters down to the students and allows these teachers to make real-world connections with students.” — Kiana Dillard, Work-Based Learning Coordinator, IALR

Educators spent the first four days visiting companies across Southern Virginia during the week-long program. The participants took tours, learned about different sectors’ required education and skills, and shadowed employees performing hands-on activities. On the fifth day, the educators met to discuss lessons learned and ideas for classroom implementation.

“Thanks to EXCITE, I was able to develop several different lesson plans that I can use in my classroom that go along with required content in Pre-Algebra and Algebra I,” Price said.

While the participants learned about technical skills and operations at each business, the need for soft skills was one of the main themes throughout the externships.

Some common themes from the post-program surveys: 

Area companies are expanding quickly and looking for workers now. In many industrial jobs, workers are retiring, and insufficient workers are coming in to replace them. Many skills can be taught. Employees need a good work ethic, punctuality, and a desire to be there to succeed.

“I learned what local employers are looking for in new hires,” Talley said. “Employers need workers who excel in soft skills. Businesses can train employees to do the required job if the worker shows up ready to work.”

Investing in Future Workforce

Wayne Talley, Carpentry Teacher at Mecklenburg County High School, and Deborah Talley, Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher, were two of the 21 participants in this year’s Exploring Careers through Industry Teacher Externships (EXCITE) program. Morgan Lumber Company was one of the industries they visited.

Morgan Lumber Company in Red Oak, Va., was one of the 25 organizations that hosted teacher externs this summer. Safety and Compliance Coordinator Lucas Bowman said the company is recruiting many employees and is trying to engage with the community. This opportunity, he said, represented an opportunity to do both of those things.

“We’re able to discuss our business and the challenges we face with finding new employees, skills that they might be lacking, and the teachers can see real-world situations where the things they might be teaching translate to careers in the area.”  — Lucas Bowman, Safety and Compliance Coordinator, Morgan Lumber Company 

Externships give employers like Morgan Lumber Company avenues of involvement with K12 school systems. Employers inform educators about their expectations of employees in various positions and offer input to their curriculum, thereby contributing to preparing their future workforce.

One simple required skill in most industrial settings is reading a ruler/tape measure. Many organizations shared this same example and said that many employees must learn this skill after starting.

“If we can relay little things like that to the educators, they can hopefully find ways to address it and incorporate that skill in future lessons,” Bowman said.

Employers can also become guest speakers and mentors, host field trips and job shadows, and offer internships for students. In-kind donations of time and expertise allow employers to show their commitment to their community.

Organizations or businesses in GO Virginia Region 3 that would like to participate in the EXCITE program in 2024 can learn more here and should reach out to Kiana Dillard.