Greater Hutch Announces New Workforce Development Programs

Thursday, April 08, 2021

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Greater Hutch, an Economic Development Partnership for Reno County, is collaborating with Hutchinson Community College and Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy to introduce two new workforce initiatives that will enhance technical educational training opportunities for our local youth.  Limited sponsorship opportunities are available for both programs.

Signing Day, the first of these two new initiatives, will take place Thursday, May 6 at HCTEA. Just as we value athletes who commit to play a college sport, the signing day ceremony is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field and emphasize the importance of their career choice. On the day of the event, high school students, parents, instructors, administration, counselors, industry partners, and potential employers will celebrate as students join their peers to commit to their future technical program pathway of choice.

“Our training partners at HCTEA and HCC deliver the best in technical training and we want their students to feel excited and valued for their commitment to training that will serve them in their future careers,” said Lacie Janzen, Economic Development Manager for Greater Hutch.  “Signing Day will give students the opportunity to be celebrated for their decision to enter these career fields.”

The second new initiative being launched is the 'FAST Track' Program, standing for Future Apprenticeship Success Training.  This newly created program is a Manufacturing Skills Boot Camp for area graduating senior students in Reno, McPherson, and Harvey counties.  It will take place June 1-11, Monday through Friday from 7am to 4pm, with a second Boot Camp running the following two weeks starting June 14 based on demand.  The bootcamp will include classroom and lab training with topics such as:  Shop Math, Blueprint Reading, Precision Measurement, OSHA 10 Safety, and Work Ethics.

“Talent and availability of workforce are the top concerns of area employers and businesses we bring to the community,” said Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce.   “The FAST Track program will give young adults in the area an opportunity to learn some basic manufacturing and industry skills and the expectations of area employers.  We are excited to partner to fill the workforce pipeline.”  

Sponsorship opportunities are available for both Signing Day and the FAST Track Bootcamp to industry partners wanting to connect with the future workforce.  To learn more contact Lacie Janzen at 620.662.3391 or laciej@hutchchamber.com

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