Local manufacturers conducted more than 50 interviews at three Walton County high schools during a three-day interview project earlier this month. This project, a partnership of the Walton County School District (WCSD), Communities in Schools (CIS) of Walton County and the Development Authority of Walton County, started the hiring process for graduating seniors in search of employment.
High school counselors, teachers, work-based learning coordinators and CIS site coordinators worked to identify and prepare the graduating seniors for the interview process by assisting them with developing resumes, completing applications and reviewing interview skills.
"Career development is a vital component of a complete, modern education. WCSD recognizes that companies in our community are eager to provide training and career paths for our high school graduates,” said Celeste Cannon, director of 6-12 Career, Technical and Agricultural Education curriculum for WCSD. “It is important to create and maintain mutually rewarding pipelines for our graduates and the business community."
Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. sent two teams of human resources professionals and production managers to Loganville High School (LHS), Monroe Area High School (MAHS) and Walnut Grove High School. Shire and Elite Storage participated in two mornings of interviews at LHS and MAHS. Qualified students completed on-site interviews for potential jobs following graduation.
Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. Vice President of Human Resources Javier Montalvo believes in the importance of community involvement, "As the largest private employer in Walton County, Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. recognizes the value of forging positive and lasting relationships within our communities.” Montalvo continued, “One way this is being accomplished is by working hand in hand with the local economic development team and Walton County School District in developing and supporting key training programs, career education, and practical training opportunities for graduating students who are interested in finding a great job in our community."
The project is set to expand to include more interview opportunities, increased knowledge of local employment opportunities and employability skills reinforcement for the 2018-19 school year.