Clifton, TX – June 13, 2024 – Local educators embarked on an enriching summer experience earlier this week through the YES! Teacher Summer Externship Program, an initiative provided by Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas. This innovative program, designed to bridge the gap between industry and education, allows teachers to gain firsthand insight into industry operations. Their valuable knowledge about workforce requirements and industry trends will enrich their classrooms and prepare students for the future.
Lhoist North America, a lime and dolomite distribution and supply business in Clifton, provided teachers with an immersive learning opportunity in a dynamic environment, helping them understand the intricate processes, skills, and technologies that drive the industry.
Brian Strickland, a US History teacher from West High School, shared his excitement about the program.
“This program opened my eyes to what companies are looking for in young people, and what skills they need,” said Strickland. “I can pinpoint and apply some of those skills in my class through team building activities. These skills all play a key role in their future.”
Aaron Lincoln, Lab Supervisor and Biodiversity Coordinator at Lhoist North America, also expressed his enthusiasm about the program.
“Teachers learned quite a bit about what we are looking for in the future workforce, how to put college degrees to use in salary and management positions, and what soft skills we are looking for in entry-level positions,” he said.
Lhoist North America is one of 10 business hosts for this year’s YES! Teacher Summer Externship Program, which served 18 educators from the Heart of Texas region.
Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas provides comprehensive services for businesses and job seekers in its six-county service area, which includes Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties. Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas is one of 28 local workforce development boards under the direction of and funded by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
Aaron Lincoln, Lab Supervisor and Biodiversity Coordinator at Lhoist North America, showed Teacher Externs Brian Strickland and Rebecca Vences-Jaimes a chemical reaction taking place.
Rebecca Vences-Jaimes, Riesel ISD School Teacher, witnessing chemical reaction taking place in Lhoist North America lab.