Kerry Koontz, a career counselor and coordinator of the Career Education Opportunity (CEO) program at Van Wert City Schools in Ohio, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to explain how the program is changing how high school students prepare for their futures.
With a background in education and counseling, Koontz recognized the gap between traditional schooling and career readiness. Nine years ago, he launched the CEO program to bridge this divide, offering high school seniors the chance to explore careers through direct experience, apprenticeships and internships.
Koontz's program connects students with local businesses, allowing them to gain practical skills and insights into potential career paths. Starting with just 17 students, the program has grown to include around 90 participants and partnerships with over 140 businesses. This growth underscores the program's success in preparing students for the workforce.
Launching the CEO program required overcoming skepticism and building trust with local businesses. Koontz's persistence paid off, as initial success stories led to wider community support. The program now serves as a model for other schools, demonstrating the value of experiential learning in career preparation. By equipping students with the skills and experiences they need, Koontz is helping shape a more prepared and capable future workforce.
Listen to the full episode for more insights into the program and its impact, and explore how similar initiatives can benefit other communities.