Project Purpose is a one week-long curriculum designed for graduating high school seniors who are interested in pursuing careers with some of Bartow’s leading industries.

The one-week training includes courses in Soft Skills, Professionalism & Work Ethics, Safety in the Workplace, Quality Control, and more. After completing the training, our goal is for the young adults to interview and take full-time jobs among the group of participating employers. Graduating seniors must request the application form from their Counselor or Work-Based Learning Coordinator.

We recently celebrated the 2023 class’ graduation. Read the press release here: Chamber Graduates Second Project Purpose Class

“I didn’t know where I was going before graduation. I didn’t have a plan. Project Purpose set me in a good direction and now I’m benefitting in the workforce and getting skills. It’s a good way to kickstart your life right out of high school. I can take these skills to any place to work.”

– Kamdin DeValentino, 2022 Project Purpose Graduate now employed at NOTS Logistics

The 2022 Inaugural Project Purpose Graduating Class from left to right named with their respective employer of choice: Austin Pilkay (Shaw), Joshua Cygan (Toyo Tires), Ronard Johnson (Toyo Tires), Kamdin DeValentino (NOTS Logistics), Christian Leon (NOTS Logistics), Camden Geer (Anheuser-Busch), Jacob Herron (Shaw), and Salena Goins (Shaw).

Not pictured: Tristin Alford (YANMAR), Nycholause Garrett (NOTS Logistics), and Rikaja Lee (Textron).