Not too long ago, I met a high school student who had just wrapped up her first week working at a local financial institution - not as a teller, not filing papers, but as a registered apprentice through the CareerWise Eagle County youth apprenticeship program. She shared how she was doing job shadowing, sitting in on real business meetings, and learning how financial decisions impact an entire organization. Her eyes lit up, not just from the excitement of learning, but from a real sense of belonging in a professional environment.

That’s the power of work-based learning. And it’s happening right here in Eagle County.

We believe, strike that, we KNOW that investing in our future workforce isn’t just a nice idea but it is an economic imperative. That’s why we’re proud to partner with CareerWise Colorado, a modern youth apprenticeship system that connects businesses with motivated students from our local high schools. This isn't your grandparent's idea of an apprenticeship. These are professional, industry-driven roles in fields like business, healthcare, IT, finance, and business operations.

Let me paint the picture: A student begins their apprenticeship at the end of their junior year with a job search, job placement, and full-time summer work. During senior year, they are working 16-20 hours per week during the school year. Over two years, they earn hours of paid, real-world experience with earnings up to $50,000. All while still completing their high school education. At the same time, they’re building a professional network, gaining industry credentials, and in many cases, earning college credit.

Now imagine the ripple effect that has on a community like ours.

We know that mountain communities face unique challenges - among them, workforce shortages, rising costs of living, and a gap between classroom education and career readiness. CareerWise helps fill that gap by aligning the interests of students, schools, and employers. It gives young people a clear, supported pathway into meaningful careers. And it gives businesses the chance to grow their talent from within the community.

This isn’t a theory or a nice idea. It’s happening and it has been happening for several years with increasing success and engagement from the private sector. Businesses across Eagle County are opening their doors and investing in our youth. Students are stepping into roles that give them confidence, purpose, and often a clearer sense of what they want to do (or don’t want to do) in the future. That clarity, even when it comes from realizing a job isn’t the right fit, is incredibly valuable.

I often say that economic development is a team sport. CareerWise Eagle County is a shining example of what happens when educators, employers, and community leaders get on the same page and pull in the same direction. We get stronger, more resilient communities. We build pipelines of local talent. We help young people see themselves here, not just growing up, but building careers and planting roots.

To the students exploring these opportunities: take the leap. To the employers wondering if it’s worth the effort: it undoubtedly is. And to our community partners: thank you for believing in a better future for our students and our businesses.

The future of Eagle County’s workforce isn’t some abstract idea. They’re in our classrooms.

They’re in our businesses. They’re already showing us what’s possible. It’s a perfect story. The career opportunities are here; the students are interested; and our businesses are ready.

Let’s keep opening the door of opportunity.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com