Over 70 teachers from Bristol Tennessee City Schools were paired with local industries on Wednesday, February 15 to learn the educational requirements for job positions in our community. The all-day event began with a breakfast where Bristol Tennessee Essential Services’ (BTES) CEO Clayton Dowell welcomed attendees.
“Teacher Industry Day promotes economic development and career development in our community,” said Dowell. “Each teacher spends the day touring a local industry’s facility, discussing career opportunities, and learning what skills are needed to work at that company.”
Over 700 teachers have participated in the program over the past 26 years.
“Teacher Industry Day helps educators explore the real-world applications of what students are learning each day in the classroom,” said Dr. Annette Tudor, Director of Bristol TN City Schools. “It is critical teachers understand the relevance between a students’ academic and technical education and how these relate to the needs of employers.”
Teacher Industry Day has received international recognition from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for its success.
Tudor continued, “Teacher Industry Day creates the opportunity for teachers to build relationships with professionals in the workforce, which is important in making connections between students and local businesses and industry. It is a win-win for students, teachers, and employers. We are thankful to BTES and all participating businesses for this annual event!”
The industries involved in the program also see its importance for our community and students.
Carolyn S. Ferrell, Vice President of HR & Community Relations at the Robinette Company, explained, “The Robinette Company has had much success with its involvement in Teacher Industry Day. It has been a golden opportunity for us to learn about what’s available within the school system, plus the instructor gets to see what opportunities are available for their students.”
Participating industries include Bell Helicopter, Bristol Metals, Bristol Tennessee Fire Department, Bristol Tennessee Police Department, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services, City of Bristol Tennessee, Economy Beauty, H. Johnson Pharmacy, HSN, JA Street & Associates, Microporous, Metz Culinary Management, Modern Forge Tennessee, Royal Building Products, Seaman Corporation, Teleperformance, The Robinette Company, Tri-City Extrusion, Strongwell, Turtleson, USAntibiotics, and Wallace Collision Center.
BTES and the Tennessee Valley Authority have sponsored the event since its inception.
