Lakeland Business Guide 2019 Chamber Guide_2019 | Page 78

coding, and executive office systems. The
Foundation provides the college with a
grant for skills education for individuals
who would like to pursue further
education, but require financial assistance.
As a way to retain talent in Lakeland,
the Chamber offers internship
opportunities for high school and college
students to shadow local professionals. This
allows students to gain experience, develop
advanced skills, and build their resumes
while still in school. The Foundation also
held an Early Decision Orientation Intern
program, in addition to creating workshops
and training for soft skills for college and
high school students.
“The Foundation hopes to aid in
developing a talent pipeline to attract
the best and brightest students at our
local universities to enter the workforce
here in Lakeland by creating networking
opportunities and internship possibilities,”
says Pettaway.
One of the courses the Foundation
currently offers for new business
development is New Business 101. This
class provides four sessions where local
entrepreneurs can work to develop and
finalize their business plans under the
guidance of local mentors. Individuals
who take the class will also learn from
city and county ombudsman, bank
officials, and marketing professionals.
Those who complete the course will
receive a complimentary six-month
Chamber membership as well as the
guidance of a mentor to assist them with
their business endeavors. “The idea is
that if we interact with these businesses
before their doors open, they will stay
open,” adds Pettaway.
Another area identified as a need
in the Lakeland community was
management training. “The Foundation
will also make an impact by providing
management training to ensure a more
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