Chattanooga Students Gain Hands-On Experience at Opella Healthcare’s Job-Shadowing Program

Chattanooga Students Get Unique Opportunity at Opella Healthcare

Chattanooga, Tenn. — Exciting things are happening in the heart of Chattanooga as Opella Healthcare opens its doors to students from the Howard School for a unique job-shadowing experience. This initiative not only aims to inspire but also gives local students a sneak peek into the world of tech innovation and manufacturing advancements that are crucial in today’s economy. Students are pairing up with professionals to observe firsthand how these fields are cutting-edge and evolving.

Growth Through Partnership with Lookout Mountain Conservancy

Since its inception in 2012, the partnership between Opella and the Lookout Mountain Conservancy has expanded significantly. What started with just five students has now blossomed into a robust program serving eighteen aspiring interns. This growth underlines the increasing demand for skilled talent in a fast-paced industry that is constantly pushing the envelope.

Opella recognizes the challenges posed by rapid advancements in technology and manufacturing and is committed to developing fresh talent right here in Chattanooga. The organization has begun its recruitment for interns directly from ninth grade, illustrating their dedication to guiding students onto a promising career path that leads to a successful graduation.

Successful Internship Stories

This initiative has opened many doors, particularly for students who are first-generation college attendees. One such success story is Quintez, who is currently interning with the Lookout Mountain Conservancy. He proudly represents the fourth generation of his family to participate in this enlightening program, showcasing how deeply embedded this opportunity has become within some local families.

Completing this program is not just about job shadowing; students gain a variety of hands-on skills. They’ll learn how to make products, and they’ll also delve into how to measure things accurately—an invaluable skill set in manufacturing.

High Standards and Rigorous Selection Process

The program, which has been a fixture in the community for over 11 years, boasts an impressive 100% graduation rate. High school applications open after a one-week trial period during spring break. The selection process is rigorous, demanding letters of recommendation and peer interviews, ensuring that only the most dedicated students are chosen. Candidates selected for the program become paid interns, contributing their efforts on Saturdays, during school vacations, and throughout the summer.

Future Ahead: Expansion Plans

At the moment, the program accommodates eighteen students, but organizers have high hopes to expand to thirty as soon as additional funding becomes available. This expansion would mean even more local students getting a chance to pave their paths toward a future in manufacturing tech.

If you’re interested in helping out or learning more about this remarkable program, you can reach out to the CEO of Opella, Robyn Carlton, through email or by calling 423-424-3882. For those eager to explore more about Opella sponsoring this job shadow day, visit their website. And for information about the Lookout Mountain Conservancy and its colorful role in this initiative, check out their website as well.

Wrapping Up

Programs like these show how essential it is to invest in our youth. With opportunities like the job shadowing day at Opella Healthcare, students are equipped with the skills and experiences they need to lead the future of manufacturing in the U.S. right here in Chattanooga. As the landscape of industry continues to shift, these young minds will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping what’s next.