2013 Dec 19 Meeting w/Jerry Joiner SkillsUSA
Skills USA - Ensuring a Skilled Workforce for America
Our speaker was Jerry Joiner. From Chico, he started life as a welder but then became an educator. He later got involved with Skills USA. His original project was to help two schools get a grant to improve their "shops." The students then took on the job of building the facilities, learning as they got the job done. Skills USA provides training in the areas of welding, carpentry, culinary, electrical, automotive ... extemporaneous speaking and how to get a job. 
The organization is a USA-wide non-profit and is funded by many large companies such as Lowes, Cummins Diesel, etc. They provide an excellent service to the USA, providing highly-skilled personnel for our work force. The skills are honed by preparing the students to participate in competitions statewide and throughout the USA. See links to their website below.
Jerry brought some of his prize-winning students who participated in his presentation. He stated that this type of activity is part of the training provided; get out an see what the real world looks like. Very unfortunate that we do not have a local chapter in Lincoln.
Karen encouraged us to sign up for several near-term activities. See the meeting slides.
- Jan 12 - Rotary Night at the Kings with part of admission going to Polio Plus
- Jan 29 - District Fireside Social
- Mar 29 - Night with RI President Ron Burton
MaryAnn introduced her guest Debra Bellis of Better Homes and Gardens Realty who is interested in becoming more involved in Lincoln. Lucky Ed Page won the drawing but connected with the wrong Ace.
The new Rotarian Magazine has arrived; bring your old ones to the next meeting for Dan to use in spreading the word about Rotary.
Remember, no meeting on December 26. The next meeting will be a Club Assembly on January 2. Expect more details from Karen.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Links: Pictures
Meeting Slides