First Kentucky Bank’s Brad Dame recently gave local students a behind-the-scenes look at how the accounting skills they are gaining today can help them succeed in a career in banking.
Dame, Purchase Region Market Executive for Commercial Lending, is part of the Power in Partnership program, a joint effort between Graves County Economic Development (GCED) and the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC) that brings professionals to the classroom to share their expertise and help students forge a path to career success.
“Thank you to Graves County Economic Development for allowing First Kentucky to be part of the Power in Partnership and giving us the opportunity to speak with Mayfield/Graves County ATC students about the many exciting career paths in banking,” said Dame. “We enjoyed sharing insights on the diverse opportunities available in the industry and the great benefits of being part of the First Kentucky Bank team.”
“Investing in the future workforce is something we’re passionate about and we appreciate the chance to connect with these bright students and partner with the community,” he added.
These professionals provide information about pay/benefits, advancement/progression, training needed after high school, and crucial details that help students understand not only the work, but the process of preparing for and succeeding in a chosen field.
Power in Partnership launched in 2024 and has continued to gain momentum.
ATC Principal Josh Heisner is glad to see this program coming together. "It's been incredibly encouraging to hear the Accounting speakers all echo the same sentiment that, if a student pursues a degree in Accounting from Murray State University, he or she will most certainly have multiple job offers even before graduation. The speakers also stressed how students who come through our program have proven themselves to be very well prepared for the next steps. We appreciate these businesses for taking the time to invest in arming our students with information."
“We’re building the workforce today that will fill the jobs of tomorrow,” said Jason Lemle, GCED president. “Mayfield and Graves County have outstanding schools and the Area Technology Center is providing excellent training. Thanks to people like Brad Dame and First Kentucky Bank, Power in Partnership provides a critical link between our future workforce and the employers who will need those skills.”
Accounting was the first of four Power in Partnership presentations planned for the spring semester. Others include electricity, machine/tool and lumber/carpentry. Watch for future updates as these sessions are completed.
About Graves County Economic Development
Graves County Economic Development began in 1981, becoming the driving force behind expansion and development opportunities in the community. It continues to foster strong relationships with existing businesses and attracts new industry to grow in Graves County. There are 44 industrial businesses in Graves County that employ 2,300 people in the community.
