Chamber, schools partner on LaunchGVL initiative

The Greenville Chamber of Commerce and Greenville County Schools have partnered to create LaunchGVL, an initiative designed to connect high school students with paid, work-based learning experiences in high-demand industries. The program will launch this summer.

Through LaunchGVL, students will gain meaningful knowledge in their field of interest to inform their career pathways and learn the professionalism and soft skills that will help them to succeed in the workforce and in college, according to a news release. Businesses will play a role in developing their future workforce by raising awareness about employment opportunities in their field and by guiding students on their path to filling critical jobs.

“The opportunity presented for our students to work as paid interns in the career area where they are receiving academic instruction is one of the most valuable experiences we can provide to ensure work readiness when they graduate from high school,” said Burke Royster, Greenville County Schools superintendent, in the release.

Greenville County Schools’ work-based learning coordinators will match high school students with internship opportunities in summer, fall or spring semesters. Whenever possible, students will be matched with internships that align with their coursework in six career pathways:

• Arts, communication and information technology
• Business, marketing and management
• Environmental and agricultural systems
• Health science
• Human resources and services
• Industrial, manufacturing and engineering systems

“At the Greenville chamber, we strive to be a solutions provider. LaunchGVL provides an innovative and proactive solution to our business community’s number one concern: access to qualified workforce,” said Carlos Philips, Greenville chamber president and CEO, in the release. “By participating in this initiative, businesses not only gain immediate access to young, motivated talent, but also have taken an active step in preparing the workforce of the future.”

The Greenville Drive and Jordon Construction Co. are the first companies to sign on to the program and hire interns beginning this summer.

“The Greenville Drive is committed to leading the charge in efforts that strengthen our community as a whole,” said Craig Brown, owner of the Greenville Drive, in the release. “We recognize the powerful role internships can play in enhancing students’ educational experience, crystallizing their interests and strengths, and developing a more prepared workforce. Moreover, having young interns as part of our organization provides us with a sense of vitality and freshness that helps us stay on top of our game.”

Business recruitment for the initiative is underway.