About Our Partnership Program

"I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I do and I understand."
-- Ancient Chinese Proverb

The workplace of the 21st Century will require a new kind of worker - one who excels at problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork and is constantly learning on the job.  The key to economic prosperity in our communities is a highly skilled workforce.  Success hinges on an improved education system that prepares students for the changing demands and opportunities of a global and technology-driven economy.

Washington State School Reform legislation provided a timely response to this problem by creating a new form of education that links what students learn in school with real life applications at a business site.  Research shows people learn best when they apply their academic lessons to real-world activities and situations.  The link between schools and businesses helps to improve student motivation and academic performance, it allows students to explore and prepare for future careers.

The Business Education Partnership was built in 1993 to bring together businesses, educators and students to share information on skills required in the workplace today and what will be required in the future.  We serve 11 school districts, a college and university, and multiple organizations in Yakima County.  Over 900 businesses have volunteered to host students providing 1,500 opportunities for career exploration.  Over 23,000 students have participated in our program through job shadowing, internships, group tours, speakers, career seminars and other opportunities.  We continue to create new programs to meet the changing needs of our school districts.  For additional information on programs offered please see "Programs" listed under the "About Us" tab.  If you should have questions about our program, please email us at yakima@chamber.org.