Students Create Solutions to End Worker Shortages Within Their Towns
The Challenge:
How might we attract and encourage young, first-time job seekers to connect and apply to employment opportunities in our area?
This week, Startland Education visited the towns of Vandalia and Moberly, Missouri to offer our signature MECA Challenge – a one-day pitch competition for students to solve a real-world problem using design thinking. Addressing the effects of COVID-19 on smaller cities, students were tasked with creating unique solutions to retain youth talent in the local workforce. Below are the winning pitches from both towns:
The Winning Pitches
“Demo-Day”
Vandalia, MO
After rapidly surveying youth through text message, this group determined that a large problem students have in their community is determining whether a job is the right fit for them. This team’s answer was hosting a “Demo Day” at their school that would allow students to try different jobs in their area through different business booth events.
“Job-Rite”
Moberly, MO
Understanding that students in their area don’t have job resources specifically geared towards youth, this team’s answer was “Job–Rite” – a web platform by and for students meant to connect young professionals with jobs. Along with posting job openings, the site would help students figure out what job is best from them through surveys and one-on-one coaching.
The Next Phase
Make It Real
Over the coming months, students will be working with business professionals in their area (including mentors a part of the Challenge) to further conceptualize their solutions and bring them to life. Utilizing what they’ve learned through design thinking and the help of our resources - they’ll think through barriers, potential partners, and how to reach their project’s optimum potential.
Event Reel
Check out a recap of the challenge that happened in Vandalia, MO!
“I really enjoyed working with my fellow classmates to create and flesh out a full idea!”
- 12th Grader, Pike Lincoln Technical Center
