Day three of the inaugural Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Workforce Development Summit brought students and potential employers together for a career exploration fair.
Students began the day with a morning main stage presentation about navigating internships and apprenticeships, vital pathways to successful careers.
Martinique Thompson Taylor, senior vice president of programs at TMCF, offered participants inspiring words before departing the session for the career exploration fair.
“Scholars, they’re looking for you,” she said. “You’re not just looking for a job, you’re launching a career.”
Afterwards, corporate partners and participants learned more about each other, with the potential of employment, internship or apprenticeship offers a possibility.
During the lunch main stage presentation, students learned more about transitioning academically and professionally. A panel of higher education leaders from Drake State Community & Technical College; Alabama State University; Hinds Community College, Utica; and Lawson State Community College offered insights and advice to students on choosing their own path after completing their community college studies.
A resounding message was that each person defines their own success and has their own unique journey. The panel also encouraged students to not be afraid to pivot, to be honest with themselves about what they want and to evaluate their financial situation when determining whether to enter the workforce and continue with a four-year degree.
After the lunch main stage presentation, students chose breakout sessions designed to explore different industries. Students could choose two out of the three sessions offered during the afternoon.
During the dinner main stage presentation, participants attended the Friday Night Kickback: HBCC Real Talk session with historically Black community college (HBCC) graduates as they shared advice and tips on navigating the transition to a rewarding career.
Graduates shared what they wished they had known before entering the workforce, how they made the transition to a four-year university and industry-specific tidbits to help the students entering the field one day.
Day three concluded with a huddle with talent success coaches to process the day and prepare for the closing day of the conference.
