Engineering firms map careers for local students through Community Connections
As a career path, engineering offers strong job security, good salaries, and opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects and advancements. But for many students considering the field, engineering can be daunting. What kind of engineer do I want to be? What exactly does an engineer do? Would I have to move away to find a job?
To answer these questions and many more, Graves County Economic Development (GCED) recently arranged for high school students from Graves County and Mayfield Independent schools who have expressed interest in engineering to visit local firms YEC, Inc. and BFW/Marcum Engineering as part of the Community Connections Program.
At YEC, students used blueprints and plans to find answers to questions in an activity setting. There were six different stations and YEC employees worked with students at each station to answer questions and provide assistance when needed.
“Thanks to all involved for sharing this group of engineering students with us,” said YEC President Brad Youngblood. “It was very encouraging to see such a large group of students invested in their careers and engaged in the manufacturing-and construction-related industries. Thank you for investing in our local youth and allowing our company to partner with GCED on these beneficial programs.”
“This field trip gave the students the chance to get hands-on with real-world engineering activities and speak directly with professionals working in the careers they’re interested in,” said Katie Beth McCord, Executive Director, Mayfield-Graves County Chamber of Commerce, who helped with the visit. “Making these connections early on helps spark interest and can open doors to future internships, jobs, and professional relationships that will benefit them for years to come. We appreciate YEC and BFW/Marcum for taking time out of their workday to speak with these developing engineers.”
At BFW/Marcum, the students heard from a panel of professional engineers who discussed the work they do, their education, previous work background and experience. They also shared insights on their favorite project, current assignments, and reviewed the projects in Mayfield they are currently supporting as part of the rebuild. Finally, the engineers offered advice on internships and networking in their respective fields.
“It's important for these students to realize they have a lot of opportunity right here in their backyard,” said Ben Stinnett, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, BFW/Marcum Engineering. “We said, ‘Here's a potential path for you--here's what we do, here's how we got here, and here's how you can do it, too.’”
“This is great for us as a local company,” Stinnett added. “We hired over 50 people last year and we'll continue hiring engineering talent in the future. But it's also a win for these students. This collaboration between schools and industry is going to lead to a more productive community and make our entire community better."
Community Connections is coordinated by GCED in partnership with Graves County and Mayfield Independent Schools, the City of Mayfield, Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the West Kentucky Workforce Board. Its goal is to help students learn about local career opportunities and build relationships that could lead to internships, job shadowing, and other opportunities.
“We are grateful to YEC and BFW/Marcum for being so generous with their time and expertise,” said GCED President Jason Lemle. “This program is driving positive change for our community by inspiring young people to find rewarding careers here in Graves County, but it is only as good as the companies that participate. Our local businesses are exceptional partners for GCED.”
About The Mayfield Graves County Chamber of Commerce
The Mayfield Graves County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering a thriving business community by educating, advocating, supporting, and convening on behalf of local businesses. As a proactive partner in economic growth and community development, the Chamber works to create opportunities for success and connect businesses with the resources they need. Through innovative programs and strong partnerships, we are committed to making Mayfield and Graves County a vibrant place to live, work, and do business.
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.
