The Boone EDC and the Boone County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the three Boone County public schools, held a Trades Signing Day for students entering trades careers. The event, similar to an athletic signing, was held at the Boone County Fairgrounds.
“It’s an important moment for us to recognize the value and importance of trades careers,” Boone EDC Executive Director Molly Whitehead said. “Each student that enters a trade career equips our communities for future success. Careers like electrician, plumber, technician and machinist will continue to hold value and provide a competitive wage as our local economy grows.”
Nearly a dozen students representing Lebanon, Western Boone and Zionsville schools indicated their intent to enter a trade school, begin their career, or even start their own business.
Each student was recognized and signed a Workforce Ready certificate. To participate in the signing event the student must be enrolled in a certification or training program, an apprenticeship program, vocational or trade school, or have a letter of intent from their employer.
The Trades Signing Day event was sponsored by Ivy Tech Community College. Flora Jones, director of student pathways with the Indiana Dept. of Education, served as the keynote speaker. The event was emceed by R.L Turner President and CEO Adam Owens.
“Organizations, educators, and businesses working together to create opportunities to attract, develop and recognize our future skilled workforce is imperative for the growth and success of our business community,” said Diane Schultz, executive director of the Boone County Chamber of Commerce.
