At the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC), we recognize that many job seekers and young adults may not be fully aware of the abundant career opportunities available in our local area. That's why we offer a range of activities designed to help them explore and gain a greater understanding of specific industries, careers, and occupations of interest. By participating in these activities, employers can play an active role in recruiting, preparing, and retaining their future workforce.
Sustaining a Skilled Workforce in Our Communities
To sustain a skilled workforce within our hometowns, it's crucial for students to know the immense opportunities available in their own communities. PIC Youth Career Connectors partner with schools and help organize career-related opportunities and events. We serve schools as intermediaries, bridging the gap. With our support, students gain exposure to real-world job scenarios and foster stronger connections between education and local industries. By investing in our Youth Career Connectors program, you help build a thriving workforce, shaping a promising tomorrow for our region!
Here are some ways Employers can get involved
By participating in these occupation and industry promotion activities, employers can make a significant impact in shaping and retaining the future workforce. It allows employers to showcase their industry, create meaningful connections with potential talent, and contribute to the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce in our community.
Through job shadows, job seekers or young adults are paired with employees from our partner employers. They have the unique opportunity to shadow these employers during a regular workday, gaining valuable insights and firsthand experience. We encourage structured activities during the shadowing process, and our dedicated PIC staff is available to assist you in designing these activities should you require support.
Our business tours allow groups of students or job seekers to visit workplaces and gain a comprehensive understanding of the employer and various occupations within it. Participants have the chance to interact with employees, ask questions, and observe work in progress. This immersive experience helps them envision potential career paths and fosters a deeper appreciation for the industry.
Through guest speaking, job seekers and young adults have the opportunity to listen to presentations delivered by industry professionals and experts. These speakers provide valuable insights into the industry, including career options and specifics about particular occupations. By sharing their expertise and personal experiences, they inspire and inform participants, helping them make more informed career decisions.
Mock interviews give young adults an opportunity to practice their interview skills. Often it is the first interview they have participated in. It is an opportunity for a professional to coach young applicants on how to make the best impression and understand how to be successful in responding to interview questions.
Informational interviews provide job seekers or young adults with the chance to conduct formal interviews with professionals working in their areas of career interest. These interviews offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into specific occupations, gain insights into career options within the industry, and receive personalized guidance. Participants can learn firsthand about the requirements, challenges, and rewards associated with different roles.
To get involved or learn more about these partnership opportunities, please fill out the form on this page. We appreciate your interest in promoting career awareness and recruiting top talent. Together, we can build a stronger future for our industries and our community.
Do you want to get involved ?
Fill out the online form and we'll be in touch with you!