“Workforce Partnership of the Year” Award from MEDP
McMinnville High School (MHS) and McMinnville Water & Light (MW&L) were recognized with the “Workforce Partnership of the Year” award by the McMinnville Economic Development Partnership (MEDP) in October. The award celeb hands-on work experiences to increase student opportunities with the local business community with work/study, internships, pre-apprenticeships and certifications.
Last spring, MW&L joined forces with the high school to hire students to design and build three emergency-use mobile water filtration trailers. After going through an application and interview process, seven students were selected from the engineering and fabrication pathways. The students teamed up with MW&L staff to strategize, plan and implement the design and build process on site over several weeks.
The award was presented at the MEDP Annual Awards event – Celebrating McMinnovation. Other categories include McMinnville Maker, Kelly McDonald Business Leader, Board of Directors Partner, Startup, Innovator, and the Economic Vitality Distinguished Service Award.
Since 2007, MEDP has been recognizing the outstanding companies and individuals that contribute to the growth of our local economy through best business practices, workforce development, a positive company outlook and commitment to the McMinnville community.
Pictured: Patty Herzog, MEDP; Chip Ford, MHS Fabrication Teacher; John Dietz, MWL; Mayor Remy Drabkin; Mike Morris, MEDP Board Member