Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College welcomed 50 administrators, counselors, and career coaches from Mississippi and Alabama to the 4th Annual MGCCC Career Coaches & High School Partners Tour on November 1, 2024. This annual tour, launched in 2021, immerses high school partners in the college’s diverse program offerings, helping educators connect their students with the many academic and career opportunities available at MGCCC.

The tour began as an initiative by P3 Career Coach Supervisor David Fava to ensure career coaches at Jackson County’s public high schools had firsthand knowledge of the career pathways available at MGCCC. “Each year, we learn of new career offerings, meet MGCCC staff, and add student support resources to our toolbox,” Fava said. “The tour provides an invaluable hands-on experience that goes far beyond a career fair or brochure, allowing us to engage directly with instructors, recruiters, and MGCCC leadership on important aspects of student success.”

Participants visited MGCCC’s Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Center, Bryant Center, Perkinston Campus, Jackson County Campus, and Harrison County Campus, experiencing interactive demonstrations and engaging with staff at each location. Shunda Williams, a P3 Career Coach from Pascagoula High School, highlighted the value of the tour: “The partners tour is a fantastic way to connect our high schools with the exceptional opportunities MGCCC offers. I’m now able to inform students about pathways they can pursue close to home, with insight on how each program could shape their future.”

For Pamela Forrest, the new principal at Gautier High School, this year’s tour was a first-time experience that she found to be highly beneficial. “It’s fantastic to see such incredible opportunities for our students right in our own backyard,” she said. “MGCCC’s career and technical programs provide invaluable skills and knowledge that will prepare our students for successful careers. We’re thrilled to introduce these programs to our students and help them make informed choices about their futures.”

Dr. Brad Bailey, MGCCC’s Associate Vice President for Enrollment Strategy & Communication, emphasized the impact and growth of the tour. “We started in 2021 with about 16 individuals, and this year, due to high demand, we capped registration at 50 participants. The overwhelming interest shows just how dedicated these educators are to expanding opportunities for their students,” Dr. Bailey remarked. “This tour has become an invaluable event to showcase our offerings, and we are truly grateful for the enthusiasm and support of our high school partners.”