LEDC says students have numerous career choices
By KATHRYN MARTINEZ news1@kilgorenewsherald.com

"You cannot count on anyone but yourself," Kelly Kinsey, Longview Economic Development Corporation career development coordinator said following a presentation at Kilgore Chamber of Commerce yesterday. "That is why we need to let students know they have choices."

According to Kinsey, many students opt out of college because they are unaware of numerous education and career opportunities.

Kinsey said she uses her presentation to show students how different their lives can be if they at least pursue a two-year degree.

The 'Make it in Manufacturing' program starts out with a video, depicting students who are of the mind-set that college is either not an option, a burdensome four-year commitment, unattainable or expensive. The same students were also of the mindset that manufacturing jobs are low-paying, dirty, too much work and boring.

By the end of the 14-minute program the same students are interested in an education, have discovered that only a two-year degree is required for many manufacturing positions and opportunities do in fact exist to advance themselves.

Part of Kinsey's program is designed to catch the attention of students through a moneyoriented scenario in which Kinsey asks two students to come forward. Student A - who opted out of college - "earns" $1,200 a month. Student B - who completed a two-year degree - "earns" $2,600. The students are then required to choose what extras they think they can afford, such as cable, internet, home phone and cell phones, then they must pay their monthly bills, including rent, car notes, insurance and electricity.

According to Kinsey, the scenario which leaves one student eating ramen noodles at three meals a day and only enough money for a two-week supply of gasoline but allows the other student to enjoy many of life's conveniences - and extra cash - has made an impact each time she has made the presentation.

Jody Clements, Kilgore Independent School District superintendent, said while the district does offer career investigation classes and have some 500 students involved in technical programs, he would like to have all KISD students attend the presentation at some point during their high school experience.

The program, if presented in Kilgore, would be a cooperative effort between the school district, Kilgore Chamber of Commerce, Kilgore College and Kilgore Economic Development Corporation.

Amanda Nobles, KEDC executive director, said she would be interested in asking more local manufactures take part in the video.

Patty Ford, KC job placement coordinator, said additions she would like to see include a list of all college programs related to the field, the schools at which theses degrees may be earned, tuition costs and financial aid opportunities.