It’s never too early to start networking and learn how to present yourself in a professional environment.
It’s the mission of the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce junior ambassador program. The chamber, area businesses and Stanhope Elmore High School celebrated the program’s third year Tuesday along with the 13 students participating this year.
PHOTOS: Millbrook Chamber of Commerce honors junior ambassadors
“We want to work with them and get them ready to work with government and business,” chamber executive director Brenda Dennis said. “Some of the students may become business owners and leaders.”
Stanhope Elmore alum Ashley Williams owns PestPro Services and is greatly involved in the junior ambassador program. She is hoping to instill how to approach people in a business environment.
“I can tell you from personal experience, hiring right now is very difficult,” Williams said. “Any young person that comes in, can shake your hand and look at your eyes when they speak, they already have the upper hand.”
Dennis said the program helps teach and reinforce much needed soft skills.
“We want them to be able to introduce themselves and give an elevator speech about who they are and what they want,” Dennis said.
Tuesday, the chamber hosted its Monthly Morning Brew at the Stanhope Elmore to showcase what is happening with the program. The 13 ambassadors briefly came to the podium to introduce themselves. They can speak in public but that is not all. The junior ambassador program isn’t the only activity they are involved in. They are leaders on the volleyball team, the student government association, cheerleading, JROTC, mascot, class president, FCCLA, soccer and more.
Williams believes the students are doing great, but the ambassador program allows them to better connect with the community, especially the business community.
“They are making great connections before they even graduate high school,” Williams said. “They are networking, learning and learning how to present themselves.”
Stanhope Elmore principal Ewell Fuller likes how the school and business community have come together. Since becoming principal in 2018, more than 50 area businesses have partnered with the school. He is proud they are helping the school’s students.
“It's not just the money part,” Fuller said. “It's the time, it's a donation of materials and resources. It’s making our students better.”
The connections made are not just for today or tomorrow.
“We're investing in the future,” Dennis said. “As a chamber, that's part of our goal. We don't just take care of the ones that are here now. We want to pave the way for the future.”
