Career Connections

Newsworthy

• Students Learn About Careers in Municipal and State Government

  Westbrook High School again partnered with Junior Achievement to host a career industry panel focused on Municipal and State Government.  Students learned about the joys and challenges of working as a public servant as well as learning a bit about the variety paths some of Connecticut's elected and appointed public servants have taken to reach their current positions in state and local government.  A common highlight was that each and every one of the panelists began as volunteers and/or advocates in their local communities.  Panelists described multiple volunteer opportunities to get connected and encouraged students to become active in local government even if it meant simply attending public meetings.    

  Expert panelists include:

  Senator Norm Needleman

  Westbrook First Selectman John Hall

  Westbrook Town Planner Peter Gillespie

  City of Hartford Chief Operation Officer Thea Montanez

  New Haven Ward 19 Alder Kim Edwards

  Career Connections

• Advanced Technologies Industry Panel Featuring The Lee Company IMH Group

  Westbrook HS partnered with Junior Achievement to host an Advanced Technologies industry panel featuring The Lee Company IMH group.  Mr. Paul Zemienieski, vice-president in charge of the Industrial Micro Hydraulics (IMH) group, was joined by Mr. Eric Zeidler, Lead Control Engineer,  Mr. Zemienieski and Mr. Zeidler explained the variety of career options available at The Lee Company, including jobs that required engineering degrees and jobs that required little to no experience in manufacturing.  Students learned The Lee Company hires mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, industrial engineers and even employees with business degrees who understand shipping and receiving.  For entry-level employees with no manufacturing experience, The Lee Company offers on-the-job training.  Students also learned about four traits that are important for successful manufacturing employees:  dependability, good workplace attendance, willingness to learn, and ability and willingness to collaborate and work with others.  Students also learned that to stand out in a job interview, they need to conduct themselves in a professional manner and be prepared to talk about any technical skills they have.  Mr. Zemienieski encouraged students and their parents to schedule an appointment to visit the IMH group to see for themselves what the world of advanced manufacturing looks like.  The panel discussion ended with Mr. Zemienieski and Mr. Zeidler giving students final advice for future success:  

  Mr. Zemieniski:  "Be confident and take chances."

  Mr. Zeider:  "Ask questions, take notes, keep moving forward."

  Career Connections