2025 Business X-Change - 9/10 Sponsored by Stevens Point Area Public School District

Description

BUSINESS X-CHANGE PRESENTATION - SEPTEMBER 10, 2025 
 
Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year.  Our September X-Change will be held at the Portage County Business Council office. Business X-Change allows business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other. 
 
There is no cost to attend. Coffee and Danish will be provided.
 

Title: "Building Portage County's Future Workforce: Inside SPASH's Youth Apprenticeship & Project SEARCH"
 
Presented by:

Brent Gostomski
AND
 
Dorothy O'Connor

About the Program: Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH) is preparing tomorrow's workforce through innovative, hands-on programs that connect students directly with local employers. This session will highlight two key initiatives, Youth Apprenticeship and Project SEARCH, that empower students through real-world learning and meaningful employment. Attendees will hear local success stories, discover how to become a partner, and learn how these programs are creating an inclusive and skilled talent pipeline in Portage County.

In this Business X-Change participants will learn:
-- How SPASH Youth Apprenticeship connects students with career-aligned, paid work experiences in high-demand industries.
-- How SPASH Project SEARCH provides intensive internship experiences for students with disabilities, leading to competitive employment.
-- The tangible benefits to businesses partnering with these programs, including developing future employees and fostering inclusive workplaces.
-- Practical steps for getting involved as a worksite partner and supporting student success in our community.

About our Speakers:

Brent Gostomski
CTE and Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator, Stevens Point Area Public School District
Brent connects students with real-world opportunities through the Youth Apprenticeship program and supports inclusive career readiness across the district. He brings years of experience in career and technical education and strategic community partnerships.

Dorothy O'Connor
Project SEARCH Instructor, Stevens Point Area Public School District
Dorothy leads SPASH's Project SEARCH program, helping students with disabilities build employment and life skills through immersive internships. She brings a strong background in special education, student-centered teaching, and transition planning.

What is Business X-Change? Allows business owners and their employees the opportunity to discuss pertinent topics, learn from local industry leaders and, most importantly, learn from each other.  Business X-Change meets regularly throughout the year from 7:30 - 8:30am.
 
Special THANK YOU to the Stevens Point Area Public School District for their sponsorship of this program.