Please describe your involvement with ITK and career and college readiness. Why do you think it's important?

I have been involved with ITK almost since the beginning. As a representative of the Visalia Chamber we understand the importance of making sure that the voice of business is heard and understood by educators. For many years we have had employers approach us saying that they cannot find "qualified" employees or that employees were missing certain skills. Our role has been helping to connect employers with advisory boards and work based learning coordinators to make sure that their concerns are heard and that they have the opportunity to offer their expertise to those working in the classrooms. We see ITK as an important collaboration between business and education and know that collaboration is the key to a thriving economy in the future.