Students launch into new careers at annual signing event

On Monday night there was another local signing event. But this time, it wasn’t for the athletes. It was for local students going into the local workforce.

As part of a multi-partnership deal, students pledged to their soon-to-be employers at the annual Career Launch Signing Day.

“I believe in a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done. I believe that I should do my job with enthusiasm, regardless of how mundane and unpleasant the task might be.” Those are just a couple of promises the six students signed off on ahead of a new journey to embark on their careers.

“(We’re) celebrating the successes you have,” said Mayor Mike Troup, one of the speakers. “You’ve got some great employers to be working for.”

Managers from Blessing, Quincy Medical Group, Leeser Trucking, and Parent and Child Together for West Central Illinois stood by their future employees as they signed those promises. The students then get a certificate, signifying their commitment to be good employees.

John Wood Community College student Rylee Martin made her own ‘PACT.’

“Right now, I’m a substitute teacher at PACT Headstart,” Martin said. “And, I love it. Every day is different. It is upbeat and high energy.”

The Career Launch Signing is also a way to help the local workforce, as employers find their best fit. Martin’s employer said this partnership benefits the nonprofit.

“It’s very hard in our rural communities to find qualified staff especially teaching staff,” said Sara Mixer, executive director for PACT at West Central Illinois. “So being able to have students who are really getting that real world experience in our classrooms and our job sites also helps our employers see how our employees are going to be in the workforce.”

The Career Launch Signing is hosted by the Adams County Career Guidance team and in partnership with JWCC and Quincy Area Vocational Technical Center.