Terre Haute goes one step further by working with its educational institutions to create specific workforce training programs and courses vital for both incoming and existing businesses. We're trying to satisfy demand, and to be competitive, you have to have a trained workforce. Preparing a skilled workforce starts before the college level in Terre Haute. According to Jack Meany, the work-based coordinator for Vigo County, this program reaches all students, not just those who are gifted. Operated through the Chamber of Commerce, businesses become involved with the program by educating the next generation of employees.
Educators receive information on changing workplace needs.
Students are exposed to possible career choices. Another program that is preparing high school students for the workforce is the apprenticeship program offered through Old National. Begun in August 1998, this program recruits students to job shadow bank employees, develop a portfolio and then work in the bank during the summers or after school in exchange for subsidies that can be used to obtain an associate's degree. Once a student completes that degree, he or she commits to two years working at the bank. Kendra Vanzo, vice president and director of human resources at Old National, said the program gives students an opportunity to see how skills learned in the classroom apply to real life.