In 2016 the London Laurel County Chamber of Commerce wanted to help the businesses community with work ready employees. In order to achieve this goal we partnered with Junior Achievement and the Laurel County School System to introduce a program that would offer the knowledge and skills necessary to make students successful in the employment market. All high school students in Laurel County complete the Junior Achievement course “Career Success-How to Get Hired, How to Stay Hired”. During the 7 weeks of this course, business volunteers from the community spend their time introducing the students to communication skills, collaboration, conflict management, critical thinking and other soft skills that would help make them a desirable employee. They also learn how to ace a job interview, identify their skills and interests, then relate those discoveries to high paying, in demand, long term job opportunities.

Students who successfully earn the work ethic seal have completed the necessary classes and activities along with exhibiting excellence in academics and attendance. They have shown a commitment to community involvement and exemplary behavior at school and in the community. Every student that completes the process over the course of their high school experience will receive a gold seal on their diploma certifying them by the Chamber as “Work Ready”. The Chamber in partnership with Community Trust Bank offers one person from each high school a $1000 scholarship to the school of their choice to further their education.

We continually strive to help our business community grow and be successful for the betterment of all of London and Laurel County, said Deanna Herrmann, CEO of the London Laurel County Chamber of Commerce. Thank you to Community Trust Bank, The City of London and the Laurel County Fiscal Court for your support of the Junior Achievement program in the Laurel County School System.