Show-Me State Times

Washington, Missouri is taking steps towards securing its future through a public-private partnership aimed at engaging local students in career exploration. The Washington Chamber of Commerce, an Affiliate Chamber Member of Greater St. Louis, Inc., plays a significant role in this initiative.

The program, known as Connect Washington, aims to prepare students for professional life while providing a talent pipeline for local industries. Initially a small collaboration, it has grown into a community-wide system that supports students from preschool through their senior year.

Connect Washington involves various partners including the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce—one of the largest chambers in the St. Louis region with over 500 members—as well as teachers, administrators, counselors, and school district leadership. They work alongside the City of Washington and Downtown Washington to create opportunities such as job shadowing, internships and apprenticeships, career fairs, advisory committees, and real-world projects.

“This program really reinforces the critical role chambers of commerce can play in bringing education and business together, and just how important partnerships are to community success,” said Brooke Hiller. Hiller is the Director of Engagement for Greater St. Louis, Inc., working directly with chambers across the region. “From providing access to employers and convening stakeholders to helping articulate the needs of the workforce, chambers are uniquely positioned to champion programs like this in their own communities.”

Connect Washington serves as more than just a program; it is a comprehensive approach that aligns values, skills, and opportunities to develop a workforce committed to its community. By gaining skills early on, these future leaders are being prepared for their careers ahead. For any chamber looking to enhance its role in workforce development, Washington presents an effective model worth replicating.

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