ROBERTSDALE, Ala. — Junior and senior high school students who want to unleash their inner business sense should listen up and sharpen their application skills. The Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is going to hold a “Junior Executive” program this year. Applications (they can be obtained from the Chamber by calling 947-2626 or by e-mailing Jamie Mangion at jmangion@centralbaldwin.com.) Applications must be returned to the Chamber office by Aug. 31.

The program will consist of a number of after-school seminars and workshops According to Marian Mason, the executive director of the CBCC, much of the program, “will be done after school so as not to conflict with them (3 to 5 p.m.)  The speakers will also happen after school.”

According to Mason, the program will last throughout the school year and there will be an opportunity for the participants to “shadow” a job holder after school to see what he or she does and to get a feel for the working world. Students are expected to devote four hours a month, minimum, to the program.

According to Mason, “… some are able to come once a week, others more than that. The orientation will help us figure out when we can have them all together to conduct the leadership classes.”

“Shadowing” will occur next semester, but students have to enroll in the program now.

“The job shadowing will begin next semester, but we’ll match them this semester,” said Mason. “Again, at orientation we’ll find out their interests and try to determine what company they would want to shadow.” said Mason.

Students involved in the program will get some practical experience and a look at the work world. It may be a chance for a young person to see if a career or industry is a good fit for them.

“This program is important especially now with the school budgets being cut. The Chamber can supplement student learning by offering leadership classes, job shadowing and involvement with their community.  These participants will learn diplomacy with others, enhanced communication and leadership skills, customer service etiquette – things that may not be taught at our schools.”