Unlocking Career Potential: How A-Tech is Connecting Students with Local Businesses

Connecting Students and Businesses

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Ashtabula County Business Advisory Council recently convened to bridge the gap between students, teachers, and local business leaders in search of skilled employees.

A-Tech Superintendent Scott Wludyga highlighted the importance of community input in shaping educational programs. "This is the second year that A-Tech has been involved in leading the business advisory council for the county schools. Input from the business community is essential, so that we are preparing students with the skills that are needed for jobs in Ashtabula County."

Enhancing Educational Opportunities

Wludyga emphasized that this council serves as a valuable platform for all county schools to engage with business partners. Notably, last year’s collaboration resulted in the expansion of computer coding classes across various schools in the county. This partnership also led to strengthened ties between Ashtabula County Job and Family Services, Leadership Ashtabula, and the BAC, allowing teachers to participate in a two-day Inspire for Educators program to visit local companies.

Preparing Students for the Future

During a recent council meeting, representatives from Jefferson Area Local Schools and Geneva Middle School presented their initiatives aimed at preparing students for future careers. Highlights included:

• Construction of a greenhouse
• A family and consumer science course
• An art class that incorporates power tools and 3D printers
• A music technology course

Kent Polen, Principal of Geneva Middle School, discussed the school’s STEM-focused activities that are designed to foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation among students.

Businesses interested in joining this initiative can reach out to Wludyga at scott.wludyga@atech.edu.