2007 - E&F at the Septima P. Clark Academy
Engineering and Facilities and the Trident United Way teamed up on September 11th for the 2007 Day of Caring. 30 employees from Engineering and Facilities, a building manager from the Department of Medicine, and three Johnson Controls employees made up the team of volunteers that spent the day at Septima P. Clark Corporate Academy, a magnet high school on James Island that focuses on removing obstacles and distractions that prevent students from being academically successful.
Mike Schultz coordinated the day, originally intending to clean and landscape on the school grounds. However, after discussion with the school’s program coordinator, career information sessions were added to the day’s goals.
Upon arrival, Kevin McClelland, the Clark Academy Program Director and Courtney Winders, the Communities In Schools Volunteer Coordinator welcomed us and explained the purpose of the high school and how it fit in with the other schools in the County.
As most of the team began trimming trees and shrubs, pulling weeds, and cleaning the courtyard, our carpenters attached lockers in the gym. Working side by side with teachers and students, the academy landscape was improved dramatically.
At the same time several members of our team spoke to individual classes about careers and how to prepare for them. Jacob Prevost, John Eilerman, Arthur Brown, William Brisbane, and John Malmrose spoke about their work, describing a typical work day, explaining MUSC’s salary ranges and benefits, and discussing the many career opportunities within Engineering and Facilities. The students were encouraged to ask questions and describe their career goals.
In addition to the small class sessions, a round table discussion was held for all interested students. Mike Schultz, Niel Eichman, Tara Frazier, Herman Allen, William Brisbane, Arthur Brown, and Steve McLawhorn spoke to a packed auditorium about their education and job experience, engaging the students in conversation about preparing for jobs in the engineering and construction industry and working at the Medical University.
E & F’s effort inspired career discussion within the classrooms in the days following our visit. So, we are continuing the connection with the Clark Academy and working together to host a shadowing day for interested students to learn more about careers in engineering and facilities.
Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make this event a success!
