Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber 2017 Chamber Annual Report | Page 8

ANNUAL 8th GRADE CAREER FAIR
TRACY HUGHES, CHAIR
• The Eighth Annual 8th Grade Career Fair was successfully organized and executed by the Career Fair
Committee. It was held at Tennessee Tech University’s Hyder Burks Ag Pavilion. Forty-seven (47) companies
participated, showcasing their industries and career opportunities to over 1,730 students in attendance from
Clay, Jackson, Overton, Putnam, Van Buren and White Counties. This premier event continues to be
successful due to a strong collaboration with employers and secondary/postsecondary education institutions.
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT (FORMERLY PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT)
ANGELA BRUCE, CHAIR
• The committee made the case for offering family engagement seminars in the workplace over six years ago, and the program is still
going strong today. Employees respond overwhelmingly in favor of sessions that assist them with their school age children/grandchildren
and are grateful to their employers for offering the opportunity at the company facility. Topics range from bullying and peer pressure to
self-esteem and dangerous teen trends. Over 168 employees participated in 2017.
SPEAKERS PROGRAM
KAITLYN SALYER, CHAIR
• The Speakers Program introduces middle school students to a variety of career opportunities available within the region and helps them
understand the importance and value of an education to build a successful career with strong earning potential. New and returning
speakers, in various fields of work, share their journey from school to workforce allowing students to hear real stories of success and
productive ways to overcome barriers. The positive impact of this program makes it ever more important to grow and fill the number of
speaking opportunities available
HIGHLANDS LEADERS
BOB BELL, CHAIR
• Program is designed to encourage development of current and future leaders who will perpetuate vital economic development
in our region. This includes but is not limited to the roles and responsibilities within their respective company/organization,
other organizations, civic clubs, Chambers of Commerce and other community activities that foster the growth and vitality of
the region and that make this region a great place to work, do business and play. The program includes a series of seminars
on the following topics: Economic Development 101, Regional Tourism, Workforce Development and Education Programs,
Regional Health and Wellness and Community Development and Advocacy. Thirty two (32) leaders from Jackson, Overton,
Putnam and White Counties participated in the 2017 class.
TN SCHOLARS PROGRAM
BOB LUNA, CHAIR
• The Tennessee Scholars Program is a joint effort between school districts, the Chamber of Commerce and the business community.  The program includes a
rigorous course of study that encourages student