Chattanooga Students Get a Sneak Peek into Corporate Life at Opella
Chattanooga recently had a fantastic event that brought students and the corporate world together in a way that ignites curiosity and offers invaluable insights into potential careers. This past Monday, students from The Howard School had the opportunity to explore the realm of consumer healthcare products right in their own backyard at Opella, a prominent company that has been a staple in the community for years.
The day was made possible through a wonderful partnership between Opella and the Lookout Mountain Conservancy (LMC). Robyn Carlton, President and CEO of LMC, enthusiastically shared that the collaboration was simply a ‘no brainer’ due to the natural fit between the two organizations. Opella’s Plant Care Leader, Marseata Lockhart, expressed just how vital it is for Opella to not only be a successful business but also an active participant in the local community. “I’m always looking for ways to improve our relationship with our neighbors,” Lockhart said, reminiscing about her first meeting with Carlton three years ago.
The spontaneous conversation back then led to the growth of a strong relationship. At one point, Opella employees were volunteering at the LMC, where they initially met the aspiring interns from Howard School. “It’s been so rewarding to introduce these students to various jobs they’ve shown interest in over the years,” Carlton mentioned, highlighting the program that allows high school students to learn while earning.
A Day of Exploration
During their visit to Opella, students were immersed in a day filled with learning and discovery. They toured the factory and got an insider’s look into the science behind product development. “They learned how products are made and how they’re continuously refined to meet consumer needs,” Lockhart explained. The students also got a taste of the marketing side of things, where they delved into the fascinating world of social media and advertising.
One of the most exciting parts of the day was the lunch break, where students had the privilege of chatting with employees from various departments. This allowed them to ask questions directly related to different career paths within the company—an experience that made a significant impact. Kevin Hazel, head of North America Manufacturing & Supply for Opella, shared that they have been part of the Chattanooga community since 1879. It began as the Chattanooga Medicine Company and evolved through the decades into what Opella is today.
“Products like Icy Hot, Aspercreme, Allegra, and Gold Bond are all manufactured right here,” Hazel mentioned with pride, noting that many of these items can probably be found right at the students’ homes. From product development and packaging to shipping, the students gained first-hand knowledge of the various processes involved in manufacturing.
Inspiring Future Careers
Throughout the day, Carlton noticed how inquisitive the students were. They were eager to soak up information, asking questions about everything from corporate law to accounting, as well as the science behind many of the products. “All these job opportunities are there for these students,” Lockhart noted with enthusiasm. She expressed hope that in just a few years, some of these bright, young minds might join the Opella team.
This event was not just a career exploration day; it was a bridge connecting the future leaders of Chattanooga with the industries that shape the local economy. With initiatives like this one, the partnership between Opella and the Lookout Mountain Conservancy is paving the way for students to gain valuable skills and possibly find their future careers right in their own community. It’s a heartening reminder that the intersection between education and industry can foster growth, not just for companies, but for the next generation of leaders.
