From June 2-6, the Regional Industry Support Enterprise (RISE) hosted its inaugural Regional Educator Externship Program which connects educators with local industries and supports workforce development. The 16 educators who participated in the program were nominated by the development authorities and school systems in the counties RISE represents: Bryan, Bulloch, Candler, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty and Screven.
During the week educators were embedded with local manufacturing and logistics companies to learn directly about job opportunities in high-demand fields. Host companies included Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, Cardinal Glass Industries, JCB, Sewon America, Claxton Poultry, SNF Holding Company and JTEKT.
The week concluded with a graduation ceremony which participants shared presentations about the companies they visited and how they plan to incorporate the experience into their classrooms, counseling sessions and career readiness programs.
“I think that all educators should experience an externship like this because we are the bridge,” said Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools STEAM Thematic Specialist Dr. Miriam Bennett. “Having this experience allows us to gain more knowledge, to share all the different opportunities and give students the exposure they need to go right into the workforce and out into the communities.”
Candler County Industrial Authority President and CEO Hannah Mullins emphasized the importance of continuing the initiative. “We’d like to continue to be focused on those educators that want to be a part of this, so that they can take the things that they learn during their shadowing and take it back to their classrooms. Eventually, we’d like to grow the program to have more involvement as the years go on.”
“It was an incredible experience to support such a dedicated group of educators as they stepped into local industries to gain real-world insight, said RISE Program Manager Jennifer Collins. “Watching them collaborate with business leaders and translate those experiences into meaningful classroom applications was truly inspiring. This program is a testament to what’s possible when education and industry work together with a shared goal—to better prepare students for success beyond high school. Our team is honored to help create opportunities that not only benefit our educators but also shape a stronger, more connected workforce for the Savannah region.”
The 16 educators received a $1,000 stipend. Two educators from each RISE county were selected to participate in the fully funded pilot, made possible through support from Georgia Power.
Georgia Power Savannah Area Manager Mickey Daniell said about the partnership, “Georgia Power is committed to partnering with local communities to build a better Georgia for all. RISE exemplifies regional leadership by focusing on and maximizing workforce development opportunities in collaboration with educational partners, industry, and the business community to achieve success. The RISE Educator Externship is a great opportunity to expose teachers to the skilled jobs and industry partners who need the next generation of students for the high demand high wage careers in our region.”