Work-Based Learning

Student Future Success: Bridging Classrooms and Careers

The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to preparing the next generation of talent while supporting local employers in building their future workforce. We believe in strengthening the pipeline between education and industry and that starts with connection, collaboration, and hands-on experience.

Our Mission

To lead the way in aligning education with workforce needs ensuring students are career-ready and employers are future-ready.

What We're Doing

Connecting Schools and Employers
To strengthen Wayne County’s talent pipeline, the Chamber partnered with all six local school districts to create the Director of Employer Engagement role, a first-of-its-kind position connecting businesses and schools to align student internship opportunities with real workforce needs.

Supporting Student Career Exploration
We’re helping students build soft skills and explore career paths through hands-on experiences like job shadowing, workplace tours, our countywide career fair for all high school sophomores, and a hiring fair that connects students directly with local employers.

SFS Portal
With the support of our Director of Employer Engagement, Shawntel, we’re launching a portal to connect students and businesses more efficiently. Employers will be able to post openings, and students can easily apply—right from our site.

Why It Matters

Work-based learning builds stronger communities, supports local talent retention, and empowers students to imagine futures right here in Wayne County. It helps businesses thrive by investing in the future workforce—starting today.

Get Involved

If you're a business looking to connect with students or an educator seeking career exploration opportunities for your students--Contact Shawntel Baker today to get started.