Georgia Southern’s Youth Workplace Readiness Institute encourages career exploration in Hinesville

Nine Liberty County students entering eighth and ninth grade spent four days discovering that exciting career opportunities exist right in their own community. Through the Youth Workplace Readiness Institute, a partnership between Georgia Southern University’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education (CPE), Liberty College & Career Academy and local business partners, students explored workplace skills, career pathways and the employers shaping Liberty County’s future.

The institute focused on four essential workplace readiness themes: self-awareness, professional presence, communication and critical thinking. Through interactive activities, guest speakers, mock interviews and workplace visits, students developed the skills employers consistently identify as essential to success.

“Our partnership with Georgia Southern University through the Youth Workforce Readiness Institute has created a meaningful bridge between education, workforce development and community engagement,” said Roland Van Horn, chief executive officer and principal of Liberty College & Career Academy. “By integrating the program into Liberty County’s Summer Innovation Camp, our associates gained more than workplace readiness skills — they experienced firsthand what is possible through exposure to industry leaders, higher education and real career pathways.”

Community partners brought these lessons to life. WorkSource Coastal, which provides employment and training resources for youth, reinforced the importance of communication and critical thinking while Fort Stewart Child and Youth Services prepared students for the hiring process through professional presence workshops and individualized mock interviews. Georgia Power demonstrated how teamwork, professionalism and communication apply across careers while introducing students to the many opportunities available within the company.

Students also experienced three very different workplaces. At Huey Magoo’s, they learned how teamwork and leadership drive a successful restaurant. Publix introduced them to career opportunities across every department while showcasing employees who built long-term careers within the company. At Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, students witnessed electric vehicles being assembled on a state-of-the-art production line, gaining firsthand exposure to advanced manufacturing and the wide range of careers that support it.

“The enthusiasm of our students and the support of our community led us to extend the program into the school year through our new Youth Workforce Readiness Institute Club,” Van Horn said. “This partnership demonstrates what can happen when schools, universities, businesses and communities work together with a shared commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders and professionals.”

As the week progressed, students began asking thoughtful questions about part-time jobs, career pathways and the steps they could take now to prepare for their futures. They also discovered that whether working in hospitality, retail, utilities or advanced manufacturing, success begins with the same foundation: communication, professionalism, teamwork, critical thinking and a willingness to learn.

“One of the greatest lessons students learned this week was that success isn’t defined by a single career choice,” said CPE Program Manager Maria Rogers. “It’s shaped by how they communicate, treat others and respond to challenges every day. By investing their time and sharing their experiences, our community partners reminded these students that they are valued and that they have an important role to play in the future of our community.”

The Youth Workplace Readiness Institute demonstrates the power of community collaboration. By connecting education, workforce professionals and local employers, the program equips students with practical workplace skills while inspiring them to envision themselves as the future workforce of Liberty County.

The program was made possible through the support of Liberty College & Career Academy, WorkSource Coastal, Fort Stewart Child and Youth Services, Georgia Power, Huey Magoo’s, Publix, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America and Malone Workforce Solutions.

As Georgia Southern continues to strengthen workforce development across Southeast Georgia, CPE has plans to expand the Youth Workplace Readiness Institute into additional communities.

To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, contact the Division of Continuing and Professional Education at 912-478-5555 or visit cpe.georgiasouthern.edu.