A New Business Opens at Junior Achievement BizTown
Samtec Opens a New Interactive Learning Center at Junior Achievement BizTown
Author: Jillian Cantu
Monday, 15 Apr 2024
Image caption: JA BizTown Samtec Business
Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana proudly announces a dynamic collaboration with Samtec to unveil a simulated Samtec facility within JA BizTown®, an innovative program designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world experiences for students.
“Samtec is proud to support Junior Achievement. Their proven lessons in financial literacy, work and career readiness, and entrepreneurship are shown to positively impact the lives of so many young people in our community. JA’s commitment to educating students on the importance of understanding the responsibilities of citizens in our community and teaching them the soft skills necessary for successful participation in the workforce align with many of Samtec’s recruiting goals.”, Rudy Spencer, Director, Corporate Communications.
The JA BizTown experience immerses elementary school students in a simulated town environment, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experiences. Students assume roles such as bank managers, restaurant operators, and even being the mayor, gaining practical skills like financial management and civic engagement.
Recently, a student from Silver Creek Elementary expressed enthusiasm about her role as CEO in the new Samtec establishment “I like being in charge and being the only girl in manufacturing! However, my least favorite thing is signing so many papers”.
Jennifer Helgeson, President of JA, emphasized the significance of incorporating a manufacturing center from Southern Indiana into JA BizTown. "Introducing STEM-focused careers within our community and region is vital. It encourages children to explore opportunities in manufacturing, fostering regional pride and awareness," said Helgeson.
Samtec's integration into JA BizTown enriches the program, which currently serves 11,000 students annually across the Kentuckiana area. To learn more about involvement opportunities, visit www.jaky.org.