More than 40 students from Arlington’s public schools visited local businesses on Oct. 26 as part of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s job-shadow initiative.
The event “provides an opportunity for students to experience real-world work environments that can inform their career aspirations and their own personal growth,” Chamber officials said. “By witnessing professionals in action and understanding the day-to-day operations of different industries, students can make informed decisions about their future career paths.”
Back in person for the first time since the pandemic, the event was organized by the Chamber’s Education and Workforce Development Committee, in partnership with the Arlington Career Center. The Education and Workforce Development Committee, chaired by Liza Durant of George Mason University, fosters relationships between education and business to enhance Arlington’s ability to keep and attract talent and develop the local workforce.
The event began with a kickoff at Amazon’s HQ2 in National Landing. Chamber president/CEO Kate Bates delivered remarks and applauded students for taking the step to actively learn about different sectors.
Following the kickoff, each participating student then visited one of 13 job sites. During their two-hour visit, students received an overview, were introduced to staff members and learned about career opportunities in that specific job sector.
Participating local businesses and organizations were 1919 Clarendon Apartments, Alair Homes Arlington, Arlington Independent Media, Arlington Strategy, Bean, Kinney & Korman P.C., George Mason University, Kitchen of Purpose, Mastercard, Mercedes-Benz of Arlington, Residence Inn by Marriott Rosslyn, Rios Partners, Signature Theatre and VHC Health’s Women & Infant Health Building.
