Educator–Industry Matchmaking: Connecting Classrooms & Careers
At the heart of this initiative is a regional directory that makes it easy for educators to identify and connect with professionals across key industries. This tool will spark new collaborations, give students authentic real-world insights, and help build meaningful ties between schools, careers, and community.
By fostering these connections, we:
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Enrich classroom learning with authentic industry expertise
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Create interactive career exploration opportunities
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Strengthen awareness of essential employability skills
Jayme Reineccius
Opportunities in retail automotive, entry level positions in: repair, maintenance, customer service & detailing
Job description:
Sales Manager
Columbia Gorge Toyota/Honda
High School (9-12)
Preferred audience:
Management & Administration
Career areas:
Engagement preference:
Guest Speaker, Co-Teach a Lesson, Career Fair Participation, Project-Based Collaboration, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment, Participate in CTE Advisory Committee
Amber Tilton
Connecting people to opportunities within my agency and creating opportunities to connect USACE to the communities in which we serve.
Job description:
Talent Manager (Recruiter)
US Army Corps of Engineers
High School (9-12)
Preferred audience:
Hospitality & Tourism, Engineering, Government & Public Administration, Science & Research, Architecture & Construction
Career areas:
Engagement preference:
Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Host a School Group, Host Job Shadow, Co-Teach a Lesson, Career Fair Participation, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment, Participate in CTE Advisory Committee
Ellen Wylde
The Secretary helps to coordinate programs where youth dive into water sports—SUP, kayaks, outrigger canoe, and swimming—at Nichols Boat Basin, paired with hands-on enrichment in science, art, history, and dance. The Viento y Agua internship adds career chats with local professionals, building confidence and connections. Programs cap at 25 youth, plus free weekly SUP and wing foil sessions. The program welcomed 600+ community participants in 2025.
Job description:
Secretary, Board of Directors WW&W
Wylde Wind & Water
Elementary (K-5), High School (9-12), Middle School (6-8)
Preferred audience:
Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications, Business, Management & Administration, Education & Training, Hospitality & Tourism
Career areas:
Engagement preference:
Guest Speaker, Host a School Group, Host an Intern
Lisa Farquharson
The CEO of the Chamber of Commerce is here to support, advocate, and promote regional businesses and the community.
Job description:
President / CEO
The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce
High School (9-12)
Preferred audience:
Business, Management & Administration, Hospitality & Tourism
Career areas:
Engagement preference:
Host Job Shadow, Host an Intern, Project-Based Collaboration, Conduct Mock Interviews or Skills Assessment
Robert Wells-Clark
Direct and coordinate manufacturing program.
Job description:
Community College Instructor
Columbia Gorge Community College
High School (9-12), Middle School (6-8)
Preferred audience:
Education & Training, Engineering, Manufacturing
Career areas:
Engagement preference:
Guest Speaker, Virtual Guest Speaker, Host a School Group, Host Job Shadow, Host an Intern, Co-Teach a Lesson, Project-Based Collaboration
Questions?
Contact Kate Wurster: kwurster@cgesd.k12.or.us