About the Alliance

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BizConnect Pilot Project

BizConnect is a regional pilot project working to build our future workforce. BizConnect is developing a regional database of employers with information about businesses and industries that students, teachers and school counselors can use to facilitate matches between students and businesses. Newly state-mandated graduation standards require that all students participate in extended career exploration activities outside of the classroom. Through BizConnect, students can meet their graduation requirements and businesses can connect with the next generation of employees.

Businesses need a pipeline of qualified applicants. BizConnect offers the opportunity for employers to:

• Market careers in their industry to young people who are planning their futures;
• Demonstrate to students the skills needed for entering the workforce; and
• Make an investment in the future of our community.

The Oregon Department of Education has instituted new graduation requirements to better prepare each student for success in college, work and citizenship. All public high school students must participate in career related learning experiences (CRLEs) in order to earn a high school diploma.

Some types of CRLEs include:

• Informational Interviews
• Mock Interviews
• Job Shadows
• Company Tours
• Guest Speakers
• Career Days/Expos
• Internships
• Senior Project Advisors

For more information contact Billy Solowski, BizConnect Program Coordinator, by phone at 503.552.6758 or by email. Go online to www.bizconnect.worksystems.org.

The BizConnect program is a regional partnership between the Portland Business Alliance, Worksytems Inc., Greater Hillsboro Area Chamber of Commerce, Clackamas ESD, Enterprise for Employment & Education and MTC Works.

BizConnect is federally funded through a WIRED grant from the U.S. Department of Labor and run in coordination with WorkSystems, Inc.