Walton partnered with General Motors (GM) to host a Careers in Automotive & Advanced Manufacturing (CAAM) program. GM is an American multinational corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan that designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes vehicles and vehicle parts.
“Our students need to see all of the options that are available to them,” said Mona Boersma, principal at Walton. “It gets students excited about the difference that they can make in the future for themselves and the world. This is one more thing that makes the hard work of being ready for college and career worthwhile.”
What students loved most about the day was having the opportunity to talk with the GM team. The jobs ranged from technology to design to engineers. The GM team shared their background, the work they do with GM, and discussed what they do within their particular roles. They connected the work with employees and interns from Pontiac to ensure students knew this could be their future as well. Following the introduction, the GM team lead students through a lesson about gears.
“Programs such as this are beneficial for students because it allows them see the different career options in their future and they see real people, from a variety of backgrounds, that are living these careers,” said Boersma.
This partnership connected GM, students, staff, and the community, and allowed students to recognize the people in the community that are invested in this industry. Walton looks forward to this annual experience for their middle school students.
Check out this video which was shared with Oakland families and community partners to share a recap of the day.