Show-Me State Times

Thirty educators from the Carthage area participated in a two-day program aimed at connecting local schools with regional employers. The event, organized by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, rootEd Missouri, and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, focused on exposing educators to industries such as advanced manufacturing, health care, infrastructure, and public utilities.

Julie Reams, president of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, said: “Carthage is home to industries and institutions that not only fuel our economy but also provide strong career pathways for our young people. Our educators are a critical bridge, helping students understand how to prepare for these roles while also helping employers connect with the next generation of Missouri talent.”

The initiative is part of Show-Me Careers, a statewide program designed to foster collaboration between business leaders and education professionals. The goal is to help educators better understand the skills and mindsets required in today’s workforce so they can guide students toward relevant career paths after graduation.

The agenda began at Carthage Technical Center. Dr. Gage Tiller highlighted the center’s 12 career and technical education pathways that prepare students for certifications, dual credit opportunities, and skilled careers.

Participants visited several local employers during the program:

- H.E. Williams, Inc., a lighting manufacturer operating in Carthage for over a century.

- Leggett & Platt IDEA Center, an engineering hub supporting innovation within its global operations.

- Carthage Water & Electric Plant (CWEP), which has provided utility services since 1898.

- Mercy Hospital Carthage, where nearly 300 caregivers serve thousands of patients annually.

Jeremy Hulette, human resources manager at H.E. Williams, Inc., stated: “We’re proud to open our doors to local educators. By showing how advanced manufacturing careers are evolving right here in Carthage, we hope to inspire students to see rewarding opportunities available to them in our community.”

Jessica Powell, rootEd Advisor at Carthage High School, said: “As educators, we don’t often get the chance to step inside our local businesses to see the specific skills required and opportunities they offer for our students. Getting that firsthand view of local businesses showed me options I can point my students to, and helps me connect their classroom lessons to real, meaningful careers in our own community. I’m proud to learn more about the career paths available to my students right here in Carthage.”

rootEd Missouri works with rural high schools across Missouri by placing advisors like Jessica Powell who assist seniors with planning their futures through college degrees or other postsecondary options. Since its launch in 2018, rootEd advisors have supported more than 54,000 students across 174 schools statewide.