Waukee’s Aspiring Professional Experience program is now one week into the fall 2016 semester with an overload of learning and experiences happening in just a short amount of time. In their very first week, APEX students have begun their APEX ProSkills Bootcamp™, discussing topics such as personal branding, setting up client discovery meetings and Agile Methodology. Waukee senior, Sarah Westholm, shared, “After one short week, APEX has already provided me with countless professional lessons and experiences that will help me succeed in the real world and life far beyond high school.”
Students are immersed in the business community at various host sites and partner locations this year such as Iowa Energy Center, Waukee Family YMCA, and The Forge, working directly with professionals in high demand fields. Motivation is running high as students are already contributing to value-added projects for clients in the first few days and finding the reciprocal benefit to being a part of the APEX Family.
APEX student, Cooper Vittetoe, reflected on his first week in the technology field. “What I am excited for is an opportunity to do something extraordinary outside of a traditional classroom environment, and make a valuable connection in the world of Information Management Design!”
Students are also given time to explore college and career opportunities during their flex time in the program. Waukee senior, Quinn McDermott, is participating in Health Sciences and Medicine course and is excited about this opportunity. “I’m really looking forward to shadowing medical professionals and seeing what a day in this profession is like. I’m hoping to be able to shadow a pediatric nurse.” Adding value to business partners is a priority goal for the program. Senior, Tyler Groathouse, also noted his team in ready to partner with business. “It’s been exciting this first week of class. I think collectively we are most excited about the opportunity to work with CB Solar. The prospect of being involved in the complete installation of solar panels has everyone feeling energized and ready to work.”
It has been an outstanding kick-off week for Waukee APEX, also welcoming students from both Johnston Community School District and Van Meter Community School District. The APEX program is always looking for additional partners for tours, expert speakers and projects. If you are interested in learning more about the program, contact Director, Michelle Hill, at apex@waukeeschools.org.
