August 19, 2026
MAYFIELD, Ky., August 17, 2026 – Graves County Economic Development’s (GCED’s) latest video offers a look back at the success of the Power in Partnership and Community Connections student workforce development programs over the 2025/2026 school year.
In just its second year, Power in Partnership brought representatives from 18 different businesses to the Mayfield-Graves County Area Technology Center (ATC), where they interacted with more than 360 students.
Community Connections was also a tremendous success, making it possible for about 200 students to participate in one of six career-shadowing visits arranged around career fields including healthcare, media, military service, architecture and real estate, and animal science. Each visit included stops at multiple businesses where students not only toured facilities but also met with staff and learned more about future employment opportunities.
“The curtain was pulled back for a lot of the students,” said Eric Walker, community education director for both Mayfield and Graves County schools. “They now realize that careers they thought would require moving away, are actually available right here in their hometown.”
GCED President Jason Lemle said he was pleased with the programs’ growth and grateful to all the companies whose support makes these programs possible.
He noted that his goal for the new school year is to see more placements for students. “If we can get more students placed that are either graduating and landing jobs with local companies or accepting internships with local businesses, that will be a tremendous success for the program.”
“We need to engage students in that manner,” said Lemle. “Because truly, these students are the employees of our future workforce,” Lemle added.
Power in Partnership is a collaborative effort between GCED and the Mayfield-Graves County Area Technology Center that connects ATC students with local employers and industry leaders, helping students visualize career opportunities available right in their own community, while giving businesses a direct connection to the next generation of the local workforce.
Community Connections helps students learn about local career prospects and build relationships that could lead to internships, job shadowing, and other professional development opportunities. It 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.
To be part of the effort to build a well-prepared workforce with programs like these, contact GCED at 270.247.0626.
The video joins GCED’s online video library. The video was produced by Austin Lamb Productions. Special thanks to Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center.
With high expectations and strong partnerships, the Mayfield/Graves County Area Technology Center Tech will actively engage all students in the mastery of academic and technical skills needed to be ready for college and a career.
Learn more about the Mayfield/Graves County ATC on their website.
