Having taught in a high school classroom, collaborated with businesses on internships, and worked in regional development to connect industry and education, I’ve seen firsthand the power of business investment in education. Our success requires us to embrace both the responsibility and the opportunity to support students in Allen County.
A strong education system builds a sustainable workforce. When businesses engage with education, they shape the talent pipeline, ensuring students graduate with the skills and experience needed to contribute to our economy. From K-12 to higher education, the private sector plays a key role in equipping future generations with knowledge, confidence and real-world skills.
Practical Ways to Get Involved
Businesses can support education in a number of ways. Internship and apprenticeship programs provide students with hands-on experience while giving companies early access to emerging talent. Externships for educators bridge the gap between theory and practice, strengthening workforce preparation in the classroom. Partnerships with schools offer real-world insights that make learning more relevant, and financial investments such as scholarships, grants and STEM funding help remove barriers to student success.
Beyond financial contributions, mentorship and career exploration allow students to see pathways to success. When professionals share insights, host job shadowing or participate in career days, they inspire students and help them envision their future.
At GFW Inc., we work to ensure that the link between industry and education stays strong. Programs like MadeByMe, Best-in-Class and the Intern Experience, as well as county-wide initiatives through Grow Allen, provide multiple ways for businesses to engage with education and develop the future workforce.
It Takes All of Us
The responsibility to educate students shouldn’t rest solely on teachers. As business leaders, community members and advocates for progress, we must invest in education at all levels as a strategic priority. By doing so, we are not only strengthening our local economy, but also building a more skilled, innovative and resilient workforce.
